When Do You Use A Hand Blender?
The hand blender is a handy tool to have in the kitchen, and learning when to use it, is simple. Grab it, plug in and you're ready to whirl. Cleaning up is a breeze—as long as you remember the childhood caution about plugs and water! Here's a spin on the usefulness of the hand blender.
Soups
The most common use of a hand blender is soups that require pureeing—tomato bisque, corn chowder and any cream of vegetable. When the recipe directs you to ladle portions into a countertop blender and repeat, avoid the mess by inserting the hand blender directly into the pot. You can keep the heat on when you start stirring. Rhythmically lift and lower the hand blender to trap remaining chunks. Stir until the soup is the desired texture.
Smoothies
Instead of hauling out the bulky blender or messing around with a cheap one that constantly breaks when you want a smoothie, grab the kitchen appliance that's light and all in one piece. Younger family members can easily add banana slices and strawberries to yogurt that thinned out with juice and whirl away. Rinse the blade and enjoy a healthy snack.
Cakes, Puddings and Mousse
Simple recipes that don't require a thick mixture of dry and wet ingredients whip up in a snap with the hand blender. For example, most puddings are comprised of hot or cold milk and the flavor packet. A hand blender is the perfect tool to whip the mixture into a creamy treat. The mousse is a fun example of a fancy delicacy that can be created with a simple tool.
Whipped Cream
To top it all off, a hand blender whips cream into an airy, sweet treat. A cold metal bowl, vanilla and sugar to taste and a hand blender quickly whips up a family favorite.
