What Is The UK’s Best Food Processor?
In this guide we’ll look at the best food processors.
We’ve compared capacity, safety features, ease of use and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
Food Processor Reviews
Food Processor Buyer’s Guide
A food processor is a great tool to have in any kitchen, able to tackle a range of cooking tasks. While traditional food processors were large and bulky appliances, there’s now a huge variety of contemporary and minimalist designs that can still handle all the most labour intensive jobs!
Not sure what to look for when it comes to the best food processor? Check out this buyer’s guide.
Material
Most home food processors are made from either stainless steel or plastic, usually with stainless steel blades. Both plastic and stainless steel can be cleaned in the dishwasher and should last a long time.
Safety Features
Safety features include thermal protection, an easy safety lock and auto shut off. Most food processors won’t start unless the lid is secured in place.
All food processors should have grippy or suction cup feet to ensure they stay in place on the countertop.
Capacity
The capacity refers to the bowl size. This ranges from around 1.2L to 4L. The larger the capacity, the more additional features your processor will have, although bear in mind that advanced processors may take up far more space in your kitchen.
For most households, a 2L capacity should be sufficient. This allows you to do all basic food processing tasks.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is important, as processors are supposed to save you time and stress – not add to it! Look for a processor with one touch operation if you’re worried, and not a range of complex settings. 2 speeds are all you need, and a pulse function can also add to the ease of use.
If your processor comes with a range of extra attachments, these should be easy to swap in and out.
Food Processors FAQ
What is a food processor?
A food processor is a handy kitchen tool that quickly and easily chops, slices, shreds, grinds and purees virtually any type of food. Some come with integrated blenders so are suitable for smoothies and juices.
What is the difference between a food processor and a blender?
Blenders are designed for liquids and are best for making drinks like smoothies and iced coffees. Blenders don’t have particularly sharp blades, and so will retain some texture in your food.
Food processors are designed for more laborious tasks that can be done manually, but are easier with a food processor. Chopping onions, slicing herbs, and grinding nuts can all be done quickly and easily in a food processor.
What should I look for when buying a food processor?
Most food processors come with a variety of attachments included, so decide what task you’re most likely to be tackling before you make a purchase. Advanced food processors may come with slicing discs, spiralisers, dicing blades and even an integrated blender.
Take a look at the speed settings on your food processor. For basic food prep jobs, 2 speeds and a pulse function should be enough.
Food processors can be expensive, and the durability should reflect the price you pay. Read reviews before you purchase and ensure your new food processor is built to last. This includes the bowl, motor and blades.
How to use a food processor?
Most food processors are very easy to use, and with a little practice you can use your processor for almost any food prep job.
To start, ensure your food processor is properly assembled. Add your ingredients according to the recipe you are following. If the recipe calls for larger items like onions, roughly chop these into smaller chunks.
Ensure the lid is properly secured, then begin processing your food. Use the pulse button to roughly chop the food, while the normal run button will blend your ingredients. Add any extra ingredients using the feed chute at the top or, if your processor doesn’t have a chute, turn it off and remove the lid.