How Can I Use a Blender in the Place of a Food Processor?

A multi-speed blender can substitute for a food processor in a pinch.

A blender can be used to prepare food when a food processor is not available. Food processors and blenders are time-saving food preparation devices with fast-spinning blades. Many food processors feature a variety of interchangeable blades to chop into different shapes and sizes. Most blender designs are limited to a single-blade variety, but they have multiple speeds. A few simple usage techniques can ensure that you get the results of a food processor by using your blender.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Cut the food into chunks small enough to fit into the blender jar. Chop dense dry foods like hard cheeses and chocolate into 1-inch cubes or smaller. Load the blender jar 1/4 full.

2. Cover the blender with the lid. Press the pulse button three times. Switch the highest speed button on and off in three quick bursts, if there is no pulse feature on the blender you are using.

3. Lift the lid on the blender. Dump the contents of the blender out onto a cutting board to examine the size of the pieces. Return the food pieces that are still too large to the blender jar.

4. Swirl the covered blender jar in a horizontal circular motion to improve food chunk circulation. Food is cut into more evenly sized pieces when the jar is rotated briskly during and between pulses from the blades.

5. Add more cut pieces of food to those that were returned until the jar is 1/4 full again. Repeat the three-pulse or high-speed bursts. Continue removing small pieces and adding new ones until all the food is processed according to what you need.

Tips & Warnings

• Some blender motors can be fitted with food processor blades and chopping compartments. Consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out if food processing accessories are available for the model you are using.

• Stop using the blender for 15 minutes if you detect a burning smell. Less-expensive blender motors can burn out after less than an hour of continual use.

References

• "The Oster Kitchen Center Cookbook"; Jane Oster; 1981
• "Brilliant Food Tips and Cooking Tricks: 5,000 Ingenious Kitchen Hints, Secrets, Shortcuts, and Solutions"; David Joachim; July 2001