I Want To Buy A KitchenAid Food Processor - But Which One?!
When it comes to buying a food processor, the choices can be really overwhelming. There are countless models on the market, each with its own unique pros and cons, and of course the prices vary wildly. I will tell you what my experiences have been, and which food processor to buy based on your needs.
First, think about what you will need your food processor for the most: Do you have a lot of veggies to chop and slice? Do you make a lot of thick sauces and marinaras? Do you entertain frequently and want to serve the best hummus and babaganoush possible? How much counter space do you have to devote to it? The main concern, of course, is size and power. Make sure you purchase a food processor with a large enough capacity to meet your needs.
I have tried to use tiny food processors in my kitchen, and the result has always been disaster. I recommend at least a 7 cup capacity, if not more. Also, look for one with a wide feed tube. Too small, and you're chopping everything first anyway. The other important attribute is how easy the unit is to clean. I hate little nooks and crannies that get crusty and disgusting. Having a food processor that has a minimum of loose parts, and a smooth, fully-enclosed base is important for cleanliness and food safety.
All of these considerations led me to purchase a basic KitchenAid 9 cup food processor, and I have been extremely pleased with it. It is powerful, easy to use, easy to clean, and has never let me down. Its footprint takes up very little counter space, and the price was quite reasonable for the quality. Kitchenaid has several different sizes available, so you can pick one to suit your individual needs. This brand has a reputation for quality in all they make, and I have found the Kitchenaid food processors to be no exception.
I recommend a Kitchenaid 7 cup food processor for a single person or couple. The 9 cup is great for my family of four. The Kitchenaid 12 cup food processor is the best choice if you throw parties often, or if you cook for a large family. I can't tell you how much easier a ratatouille is with my food processor! The last point to ponder is where to buy it. Amazon is a great place to look, as they frequently have the best price on the market, and also run deals at times.
In my case, I bought my food processor from QVC, since they had the exact color I wanted with an unbeatable price at the time. Online shopping is your friend, though. You can almost always find a better price online, including shipping, than in any brick and mortar store. So, there are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a food processor, but here's the bottom line: You want to buy a food processor that helps you out, not one that causes you more headaches in the kitchen.
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