Glass blenders have grown in popularity in recent years, as people discover the joys and health benefits of making smoothies, soups and other pureed delights at home. Here’s how to find one that works for your lifestyle.
How to Choose an Electric Blender
Consider the following as you select a blender.
● Power. Glass blenders generally operate at a lower power than
stainless steel blenders. The lower power is enough for most uses in a home kitchen. If you’re making fruit- or yogurt-based smoothies and milk shakes, soups and sauces, 500 to 700 watts of power should be plenty. Some high-speed blender models offer even greater power. These are useful if you want to make crushed ice or your own nut butters.
● Color. If your blender is going to sit out on your kitchen counter, choose a look you like. With base finish options like brushed nickel, chrome and black, you can find one that blends with your decor. For a spark of color, choose from options like red or blue.
● Controls and Features. Blenders come with a variety of control settings. For a blender used strictly for smoothies, you’ll only need a few different speeds. If you’re making soups, you might want more settings. Also, think about how the controls work. Buttons are easier to clean, while a variable speed dial offers precise control.
Personal Blenders
A personal blender is ideal for making smoothies and power shakes to go. This small glass blender (some are also made in plastic) doubles as a travel container. Take it with you to work or the gym. These blenders provide a range of benefits, including easy cleanup and quick blending time. With their all-in-one design, you won’t dirty both a blender jar and a travel mug. The container is dishwasher safe on most models.
An
immersion blender is also a quick way to blend food and drinks with fast cleanup. It’s handheld, so you can place it directly into a cup or pot. Keep it in your utensil drawer and save on the counter space.