Best Food Processors Reviewed
There are certain appliances which are essential to every kitchen. A good food processor ranks high on the top of that list.
That is because an efficient appliance will assist you with the chores of chopping, mincing, and slicing, enabling you to cook any dish of you choice in a significantly shorter amount of time.
Food processors are the kind of appliances that are a part of almost any kitchen.
The invention of the food processor is not a new one, on the contrary, this little machine was first presented in 1946 by a German company called Electrostar.
However, in the late 40s, electric motors were still pretty expensive and the commercial use of the food processor didn’t start up until the 1970s.
Since then, thousands of catering businesses, restaurants and households have enjoyed the convenience of preparing different meals with food processors.
To assist you in making the right choice and selecting the appliance which is just right for you, we have compiled a list of the ten best options when it comes to food processors and the features that make them stand out.
10 Best Food Processors
1. Hamilton Beach 70740
Robust motors offer greater processing power and less time spent in the kitchen due to shorter prep times. The Hamilton Beach 70740 8 Cup Processor comes with 450-watt motor thanks to which slicing, shredding, and chopping become a breeze. What’s more, its various parts are also dishwasher safe, making it convenient to clean them thoroughly once you are through with them.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Hamilton Beach
Product Dimensions: 14 x 10.1 x 10.1 inches
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Colour: Black
• Category: Kitchenware
Price/Value
This processor sits quite low on the price range in comparison to other similar appliances. While that may raise concerns regarding its durability, it is certainly a good choice if you simply need a convenient appliance to handle your immediate cooking needs.
Decision Time
This appliance ticks all the right boxes regarding capacity, an adequate motor and dishwasher safe components. These features make the Hamilton Beach 70740 Processor ideal for making your favorite sauces, while its pulse control makes it perfect for achieving the desired consistency of your ingredients. All these qualities make it a highly cost effective option.
2 speed setting with pulse control
450 watt motor
Dishwasher safe parts
Large capacity
Large feed chute
- Sometimes it can get loud
- Bowl to large for small recipes
2. Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY
Thanks to its 14 cup lexan work bowl, mixing your ingredients will never be a chore since you will never have to worry about any spills while preparing a meal. The Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY has a quite powerful motor with the capacity of 720 watts and is suitable for preparing large quantities of food.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Cuisinart
• Product Dimensions: 16.6 x 12.6 x 9.3 inches
• Weight: 17.2 pounds
• Colour: Silver
• Category: kitchenware
Price/Value
Regarding the price of this state of the art appliance, one can say that it is a bit higher than the average price on the market. However, its capabilities will make it a worthwhile purchase and a much welcomed addition to your kitchenware collection.
Decision Time
If you cook or entertain a great deal and need an appliance that will make things a lot easier for you, then this is just what you need. Powerful, versatile with a large capacity, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY has been equipped with everything you require for an improved cooking experience.
Wide range capabilities
A powerful 720 watt motor
Extra large feed tube
14 cup work bowl
3 year limited warranty
Single touch operation
- Does not come with a dough blade
- Has only one speed setting
3. Hamilton Beach 70725A
Thanks to the Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Stack and Snap’s large bowl with a 12 cup capacity, you will be able to prepare large amounts of food any time you choose. What’s more, its bowl has been fitted with a pour spout in addition to being sealed. As a result, this appliance is suitable for processing liquids without any spills, resulting in a tidier prepping process overall.
It's also very user-friendly and comes with a simple instruction guide. Its components are also dishwasher safe and can be easily stored as well.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Hamilton Beach
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 8.5 x 16.1 inches
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Colour: Silver, Black
• Category: Kitchenware
Price/Value
This appliance is at the bottom of the pricing scale and may be considered a bargain due to its various features which will certainly come in handy while you are preparing a meal. As a result, the Hamilton Beach Stack and Snap is suitable for anyone interested in an inexpensive but efficient appliance.
Decision Time
Although it is not as powerful as more top of the range food processors, it comes with a capacity which is quite impressive considering its price. Its spill proof and leak prevention features are also quite useful in enabling you to clean up afterward with minimal effort. In addition to these features, its large feed tube is another bonus which will also make prepping quite convenient for you.
450 watt motor
12 cup capacity
Dishwasher safe components
Sealed bowl with pour spout
Easy assembly
- Sometimes can be hard to clean
4. BLACK+DECKER FP1600B
If you are looing for an appliance which lets you feed it food continuously, you will love the BLACK+DECKER FP1600B ’s continuous flow feed chute that has been specifically added for that very purpose. It also has a pusher which will guide the food towards the slicing/shredding disk to ensure its consistency remains the same. Another feature that makes this processor worth considering is its pulse button control which ensures you can switch from the pulse function to continuous control.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Black & Decker
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 7.8 x 15.7 inches
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Colour: Black
• Category: Kitchenware
Price/Value
The food processor brought to you by Black & Decker is one of the cheapest available. It comes with the basic functions required but lacks the more specialized features which can be found in more expensive appliances. That being said, it is likely to be a suitable option for anyone who needs a low-cost food processor with basic features to assist them when cooking.
Decision Time
This option comes with a range of convenient features like its continuous feed chute and pusher and pulse control function as well. Its suction feet guarantees that the device will remain in place during operation. In addition to that, its ability to chop, mince, slice, and dice also make it a great bargain at the price it comes.
Continuous food chute with pusher
8 cup capacity bowl
Stainless steel shredder
Stainless steel chopping blade
Suction feet
- The canister is not very durable
5. Cuisinart DLC-10SY
Whether you need to make your favorite nut butter, stir fries, salads or bread, you can be confident that the Cuisinart DLC-10SY Pro Classic 7-Cup has got you completely covered. All of it thanks to its two feed tubes in extra large and small sizes, its medium sized shredding disk, 4mm slicing disk as well as its chopping blade which is also capable of kneading dough. That isn’t all there is to this appliance. It also comes with a 7 cup capacity as well as a 600 watt motor which is powerful enough to enable you to prep your meal to perfection.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Cuisinart
• Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 7 x 13.8 inches
Weight: 32 pounds
• Colour: White
• Category: Kitchenware
Price/Value
Given its wide range of features which exceed those of more ordinary food processors, the Cuisinart DLC-10SY costs slightly more. However, its price does place it slightly below average when compared to other more powerful models. It certainly represents great value for money and is likely to become a cherished part of your kitchen experience.
Decision Time
If you want a food processor which makes it possible for you to do it all, this one is the right choice. Its price is certainly reasonable when all its capabilities are taken into consideration. The fact that it comes from Cuisinart, the renowned leader in the household appliance sector, is also worth noting as well as the fact that it comes with a five-year warranty on the motor and a three-year limited warranty for the entire unit.
Stainless steel discs
Multifunctional stainless steel blade
Single paddle control
Heavy duty 600 watt motor
Extra large and small feed tubes
7 cup capacity bowl
- Hard to clean
- Shakes when grinding really solid food
Criteria for Evaluation
As we already stated, food processors are electric appliances that operate with the help of an electric motor that rotates the blades at high speeds which in turn cut the food into tiny pieces.
They are used for both solid and liquid foods, making them one of the most versatile appliances one can own in their kitchen.
Main functions are as per below:
- Slicing/ chopping
- Grinding foods like dried fruit, nuts, seeds or meat
- Shredding/ grating different types of cheese
- Shredding different types of vegetables
- Pureeing
- Mixing/ kneading different kinds of dough
Considering the number of functions and the general use of this appliance, we’ve put together our best food processors review guide.
This review has been prepared by our professional kitchen experts who have tested different food processors through a number of test cases and everyday tasks around the kitchen.
We have picked 4 main evaluation criteria which reflect the quality of the best ones for 2017.
In the sections below we’ll break down the selection process based on the previously mentioned criteria of evaluation.
- Material Quality
- Performance
- Ease of Use
- Care and Maintenance
It’s important to note that the evaluation criteria aren’t placed in a particular order of importance. We find them equally significant when it come to rating the items in the reviews.
Material Quality
Most food processors consist a plastic bowl that’s closed with an upper lid which prevents the food from splashing outside of the appliance due to the high operating speeds. It is very important that the bowl is made from durable, BPA free, plastic material.
Considering the fact that consumers mix together different types of foods in the processor, BPA free plastic prevents risky food interaction with the internal walls of the food processor.
The upper lid is also an important element. It should be closed tightly to the bowl in order to avoid food release during the processing time. The upper lid, in some types of food processors, is the part where the electrical motor is positioned. Because of this, special attention should be paid to the lid whenever purchasing a food processor.
Almost every food processor on the market comes with a special safety feature which starts the motor only if the upper lid is properly attached to the bowl. This prevents accidents, especially important if you have small children that are curious around the kitchen.
Another vital point when it comes to food processor materials is the blade material. The shredding and slicing disks and the cutting blades should all be made out of stainless steel.
Last but not the least is the element of design. Properly designed food processors provide a fully stable unit during the food processing time. Plus, a good looking one is always desired to complete the look on any counter top.
Performance
How the food processor functions is highly dependent on the type of blade or disc you have attached to the bowl. This kitchen appliance is usually equipped with two power buttons which are programmed with a different speed norm.
If you have highly solid food you will need to start with a low speed and further you can proceed with the high one. This is also applicable when you are about to prepare dough. You start with the lowest speed and further switch to the highest one.
The feeding tube is another important element in regard to performance.
The feeding tube is enabling the user to add the food in the bowl. In order for the feeding food to be considered a great one, it should have the adequate size that allows the food to enter the bowl through a “pusher” without risking the individual’s fingers.
As far as wattage is concerned, the food processor works within the range of 500 to 1200 watts. The higher the wattage the higher the processing speed. It is important to mention that the wattage is also directly related to the power consumption norm as well.
With this fact in mind, you should also pay attention to the power consumption rates when looking for the best food processor.
Ease of Use
These are appliances that are generally easy to use, as they’re almost fully automatic. Your work is limited to adding the ingredients in the processing bowl, attaching the blades of your preference and pushing the power button.
Here, the power cord becomes an important point too. One of the main concerns being discovered through user feedback is the length of the power cord. Individuals prefer having food processors coming with a long power cord that allows them to place the appliance wherever they find it convenient.
Stability is also an important factor in this section. Considering the fact that you will be grating or chopping solid foods like nuts, dried foods, etc. the unit might become unstable if it is not properly designed to provide outstanding stability. We need to mention the fact that stability also depend on the place where you settle the appliance.
Another element in terms of ease of use is the measuring line. If the bowl is designed with a measuring line, it becomes easier for the end user to add ingredients at the respective measure provided in a given recipe.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of the food processor might seem like a complex task. It is an electrical appliance, thus individuals envision that special care should be taken during the washing and cleaning process. As we previously mentioned, the electrical motor is situated within the lid, thus, this is only part that has to be cleaned carefully.
In fact, all it requires is a sponge soaked in water and diluted soap. You soak the sponge in this mixture and start washing the lid. Once properly soaped, you rinse it off with clean water. When the cleaning process is finished, the lid should be left to rest and dry.
As far as the bowl is concerned, it is usually a dishwasher safe part together with the blades, the disks and other detachable parts as well. Each food processor on our list is sold with a detailed instructions manual that explains the right cleaning directions.
When creating this guide, we only included models that are considered easily to be taken care of. We need to emphasize that the lid should never be soaked in water or in a dishwasher.
When it comes to maintenance, being an electrical equipment, the food processor usually comes with a product warranty. This warranty is mostly focused on the electrical elements of the unit, but it does not including possible damages caused by the user.
FAQs
Q. What can a food processor do?
Most of the food processors are sold as multi-functional appliances. Their functions vary depending on the type of blade or attachment you are using. Some of the main functions include:
- Slicing
- Chopping
- Grinding
They can slice all types of vegetables and grind different food categories, for ex. meat, dried fruit, nuts, herbs, seeds, etc.
Q. What is the difference between a blender and a food processor?
The blender’s only function involves the pureeing or blending of food. This appliance also needs water to work which can be a drawback when a limited amount of water is required. On the other hand, a food processor is capable of processing food without any water and can also slice, chop foods, and even knead different kinds of dough thanks to the various detachable parts.
Q. What should I look for exactly?
Ideally, it should have a safety feature which prevents it from starting without being shut properly or adequately fastened to the base. It should also be quite powerful to ensure it processes your food with maximum efficiency. Also, its controls must be user-friendly to enable you to use it with a minimum fuss.
Q. What other additional functions are they capable of?
Some come with a dough blade which is helpful for baking. There are food processors that also come with leak resistant features which make it possible to work with a full bowl without the risk of creating messy splashes all around your kitchen.
Q. Why is my brand new processor not turning on?
Usually, these appliances come with a dual safety lock for protection purposes. This mechanism initiates the food processor only when the bowl and the lid are placed in the exact matching position.
All the best ones come with an instruction paper which explains and gives a detailed description on how the appliance should be assembled before starting to process food. Only when you are sure that you have followed the instructions but the appliance is not working, you can contact the vendor or manufacturer.
Q. Why did it suddenly stop while I was using it?
This type of device is commonly being provided with a protection fuse. This mechanism protects the engine from overload. Thus, if you were using the food processor and it suddenly stopped, it might have been because of a possible overload. Trying to immediately turn it on will not solve the issue.
That is why it is strongly recommended to turn it off and let it rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, you can try to turn it on and if it is still not functioning, let it cool again.
During the cooling procedure, the power button should be “off.” If even after the second cooling procedure the device will not function, you can contact the vendor or manufacturer to have further instructions or proceed with maintenance.
Q. Is it possible to use the main blade when processing dough or pasta?
Usually, these appliances are equipped with a featured kneading attachment. This one is designed for preparing dough and pasta. It is highly recommended to use this kneading attachment and not the main blade when you are about to process dough.
Q. Does it allow you to process hot food?
With a certain level of caution, you can. It is usually recommended that when you are about to blend hot liquids in it, you have to divide the amount into parts. This should be done even in cases when you see that the appliance can hold the whole quantity of hot food. This recommendation comes because when you process hot foods, the liquid may come up and get out the edges because of the steam. This effect can impact the lid tightness as well.
Q. What is the function of the “pulse” option for?
This function enables the user to chop certain soft food like onions, boiled eggs and similar. Instead of puréeing the food, this option will cut it in pieces ensuring that the whole quantity is equally processed. Apart from chopping, this function allows the user to add eggs to food or flour to the dough. Users should be careful when using the pulse function in order to achieve the maximum benefits.
Q. What is the wattage of the processor?
These type of appliances usually operate with a maximum of 700 watts. This is because the process of chopping, cutting or slicing does not need high amounts of electric power. There are certain food processor functions that require more power. Mixing dough, for instance, requires more power than the other processes.
Q. How should the lid and feeding tube be set?
The lid is very important because it is the part that assures your safety and prevents possible food incidents (spilling). You should pay attention to the lid and seal it right. When it comes to the feeding tube, the main element is width. The wider it is, the better for you. It will allow you to put large amounts of foods without needing to cut them beforehand.
Q. The importance of body stability?
Different functions make food processors prone to possible vibrations. These vibrations become stronger when you are processing hard foods in larger amounts. Because of this, you should always pay attention to the body and basis of the appliance you are about to buy. The best recommendation is to select a reliable body appliance with a wide base that will be able to ensure proper stability.
Q. What is the best approach and practice to smash solid ingredients?
Food processors are a great solution when you need to puree solid ingredients. But most of the users are not familiar with the tricks that make an excellent puree. To achieve a fully smashed amount, you should put smaller amounts of ingredients into the bowl. This process should be done gradually.
Q. Which are the best-recommended practices for slicing, shredding, and grating?
The trick for an outstanding slicing, shredding and grating food delivery stands behind the speed.
If you are about to slice or shred foods that are categorized as soft or juicy, you have to use low processing speed. When you are about to slice, shred and grate foods of hard nature, you have to use high processing speed to achieve the best results.
Q. Is it possible to crush ice using a jug blender?
The blades are made of heavy steel which means that they can crush the ice cubes without being affected from their hardness. The only caution you have to take is to follow the paper of instructions to use the necessarily detachable lid for this purpose.
Q. What does the chopper attachment do?
If your food processor has a chopper attachment, then it means that your appliance can be used to:
- Chop
- Shred
- Mince
You can use the chopper attachment to chop foods such as meats, vegetables, fruits, herbs, and nuts.
Q. Which are the ways to clean stains created in the plastic parts?
Once the appliance has been in use for long periods of time, it will start to get stained. The reason behind this is that some types of food have a discoloration effect on the plastic.
To fully remove these stains, you can use natural cleaners (avoid chemicals). One of the solutions would be to clean the plastic parts with vegetable oil before washing them.
Q. Is it safe to wash the detachable food processor parts in a dishwasher?
Most of the food processors are provided with removable parts. These parts are usually dishwasher safe.
To avoid possible incidents, users should go through the instruction paper carefully. It usually contains all the necessary information in regards to dishwashing safety of the detachable parts.
Q. Which are the best practices for cleaning an immersion blender?
- First of all the appliance should be unplugged from the power outlet
- The second step is to remove the attachment (detachable part)
- The third step is to put the detachable blender part in hot water. It should rest for several minutes for the food particles to be released from the part.
- Last, you should clean the parts with a sponge soaked in the cleaning solution. Let the parts rest to get rid of excessive amounts of water.
