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Food Processor Features

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Despite the variance mentioned above, the basic food processor itself – and the standard features and attachments it includes – are quite similar regardless of the manufacturer. The standard processor usually includes an S-shaped metal blade, a clear plastic bowl with a lid, and a plastic food pusher that allows owners to push food through the feed tube. The S-shaped blade is a chopping blade, but many full-sized processors now include as a standard feature a disk that allows food to be shredded or sliced. Manufacturers offer a wide range of bowl capacities, from small, 3-cup bowls to large, 14-cup bowls. The majority of processors only offer one speed, but a standard pulse setting grants users a high degree of control over that speed. After reviewing the standard features on a basic food processor you may determine that you don’t require anything other than a sturdy, basic processor. However, if you’re willing to pay more (sometimes significantly more) for extra options, food processors can offer even greater versatility. Some popular, optional features include:

• Larger feed tube: Depending upon your cooking needs, you may be interested in a processor with a tube capable of handling whole potatoes, tomatoes or other fruits and vegetables. Certain processor models also offer multiple feed tubes and bowls that work with the same motor base.

• Julienne disc: The sharp, small teeth of this attachment will cut food into long, thin strips, so it’s excellent for salad or decorative purposes.

• Citrus juicer: Unlike some of the flat disc attachments, most juicers are dome shaped. The juicer sits on top of the motor shaft and turns in order to squeeze the juice out of fruits.

• Dough blade: The paddles of this blade aren’t straight, but they’re less curved than those of the S-shaped blade. With this attachment it’s possible to make a number of different types of dough.

• Egg beater: Two paddles connected to two straight arms allow you to whip egg whites and whipping cream without as much manual labor.

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