WHEN TO USE A HAND BLENDER AND WHEN A CLASSIC MIXER?
Mixers and hand blenders are necessary tools in a modern kitchen. If you aren’t sure which type is more convenient for you, and for what purposes each one is used, this article is for you.
The advantages of using mixers and hand blenders are numerous and mostly known to all of us.
First, they are fast and efficient, allowing us to create unique and delicious dishes. By mixing ingredients using these two products, we spend less time and energy on food preparation.
Second, they are easy to clean and use.
Third, they are available in different price categories, which means that everyone can find a model that suits their needs and budget.
There are different types of these products, each with its own unique functions and advantages – motor power, different operating speeds, additional functions, price… In addition, there are different types of these small household appliances, including hand blenders, classic mixers, stand mixers, and kitchen robots.
What’s often confusing is the choice between a classic mixer and a hand blender, because both have their advantages for preparing certain dishes. That’s why we will explain when to use a hand blender and when a kitchen mixer and what each of device is best suited for.
What you maybe didn’t know is that a stand mixer and a hand blender actually work differently and, therefore, serve different purposes. While a stand mixer primarily combines ingredients using wires, a hand blender has blades designed to blend and chop ingredients.
Simply put, the purpose of a hand blender is to evenly combine two or more ingredients until they become a single product that has the optimal volume and texture.
When to use a hand blender?
Due to its different design, a hand blender is much easier and more convenient to use than a mixer. However, this does not mean that you can use it for all purposes like a classic mixer.
It is an ideal tool for simpler tasks, such as:
Mashing: This is the key purpose of a hand blender – when the ingredients need to be mashed quickly and easily, and at the same time retain their texture.
Pureeing: Love mashed potatoes? Have you tried making it with a classic mixer? If so, the end result was probably a sticky, thick mixture, and the taste was not exactly what you wanted. That’s why a hand blender is ideal for mashed potatoes.
No lumps: If you have prepared any liquid mixture and there are lumps left in it, the hand blender will “break” them easily and quickly.
Preparing sauces and fillings: It is clear that using a classic mixer would be unnecessary for these tasks, because a hand blender is easier to handle and performs the function perfectly. Simply use a hand blender to get the perfect texture.
Scrambled eggs: Try whipping scrambled eggs with a hand blender instead of a mixer, and let us know what you think. 😉
Pancake mix: A hand blender will make you a pancake master! Easily make light and airy mixtures, without a single lump. Besides, using a classic mixer in this case would lead to a huge mess in your kitchen.
Coffee foam: Don’t have a whisk for your favorite coffee? Never mind, try a hand blender and you will get absolutely the same result – creamy and delicious foam.
Chopping cooked meat: Forget about hand-chopping of cooked chicken. Instead, let your hand blender do the work.
Homemade mayonnaise: Egg yolks and oil do not bind easily, so a hand blender is extremely useful. While blending the eggs, the key is to slowly pour in the oil. The mayonnaise will soon begin to form.
When to use a classic mixer?
After reading all the tips so far, there’s one logical answer to this question – for all other “harder” kitchen tasks that a hand blender cannot do.😊
A classic mixer will take your culinary skills to a whole new level, as it has a much stronger motor compared to a hand blender. Most mixers come with several useful accessories. If you like to make cakes or bread, a stand mixer will only make your life easier.
The classic mixer is definitely the best for preparing:
- Home-made bread and other baked goods (with the special accessory that comes with it, do not use the classic beaters and whips)
- Whipped cream, fillings and other mixtures for cookies and cakes (due to its speed and engine power, it can provide the required consistency and texture);
To sum up: Both hand blenders and stand mixers are essential tools in the kitchen. When it comes to deciding between a hand blender and a stand mixer, consider the amount of food you cook and the type of tasks you will be doing. For small, simple tasks, a hand blender is a great option, but if you want to tackle more demanding tasks, a classic mixer is the way to go.
Take a look at our offer of hand blenders and classic mixers, as well as stand mixers and make delicious meals for your loved ones quickly and easily! 😊