Say Goodbye to Lumpy Purees: How to Use a KitchenAid Food Processor Attachment for Smooth Results

Pureeing is a culinary technique that involves reducing food to a smooth, liquid consistency. Whether you’re making soups, sauces, or baby food, a food processor is an indispensable tool for achieving perfect purees. In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of how to puree with a KitchenAid food processor attachment, ensuring you master this essential kitchen skill.

Choosing the Right Blade

The first step in pureeing is selecting the appropriate blade. KitchenAid food processors typically come with two main blades:

• Multi-purpose blade: Ideal for general chopping, mixing, and pureeing soft ingredients.
• Dough blade: Designed for heavier tasks like kneading dough and making bread crumbs, but can also be used for coarse purees.

For pureeing, the multi-purpose blade is the best choice.

Preparing Your Ingredients

Before pureeing, it’s important to prepare your ingredients properly:

• Cut large ingredients: Slice or chop large vegetables and fruits into smaller pieces to ensure even processing.
• Remove seeds and stems: Remove any seeds or stems that may affect the texture of the puree.
• Adjust liquid content: For thicker purees, use less liquid. For thinner purees, add more liquid as needed.

Assembling the Food Processor

1. Attach the food processor: Secure the food processor attachment to the KitchenAid stand mixer.
2. Insert the blade: Choose the multi-purpose blade and insert it into the food processor bowl.
3. Lock the lid: Place the lid on the food processor and lock it in place.

Pureeing Techniques

Basic Puree:

1. Add ingredients: Place the prepared ingredients into the food processor bowl.
2. Start low: Begin processing at a low speed to prevent splattering.
3. Gradually increase speed: Once the ingredients are combined, gradually increase the speed to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Use the pulse function: For finer purees, use the pulse function to control the processing.

Smooth Puree:

1. Use a fine mesh strainer: Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth or a nut milk bag.
2. Pour the puree: Pour the puree into the strainer and gently press with a spatula or spoon to extract the smooth liquid.
3. Discard the solids: Discard the solids that remain in the strainer.

Thick Puree:

1. Add thickeners: If desired, add thickeners such as cornstarch, flour, or bread crumbs to thicken the puree.
2. Process until smooth: Continue processing until the puree reaches the desired consistency.
3. Adjust seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Troubleshooting

The puree is too thin: Add more thickeners or reduce the amount of liquid.

The puree is too thick: Add more liquid or reduce the amount of thickeners.

The puree is not smooth: Use the smooth puree technique described above.

Cleanup

1. Unplug the food processor: Always unplug the food processor before cleaning.
2. Disassemble the parts: Remove the lid, bowl, and blade.
3. Wash the parts: Wash all parts thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
4. Dry the parts: Dry all parts completely before storing.

Alternative Methods

In addition to using the food processor attachment, there are other ways to puree food:

• Immersion blender: A handheld immersion blender can be used to puree directly in pots or bowls.
• Blender: A regular blender can also be used for pureeing, but may not be as efficient as a food processor.
• Manual food mill: A manual food mill is a traditional tool that can be used to puree food by hand.

Conclusion

Mastering how to puree with a KitchenAid food processor attachment opens up a world of culinary possibilities. By following these techniques and tips, you can create smooth, flavorful purees that will elevate your dishes to new heights. Experiment with different ingredients and textures to discover the versatility of this essential kitchen tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a food processor to puree hot liquids?
A: No, never puree hot liquids in a food processor. The steam can build up pressure and cause the lid to blow off.

Q: Can I puree frozen ingredients?
A: Yes, you can puree frozen ingredients in a food processor. However, it’s recommended to thaw them slightly first for easier processing.

Q: How do I prevent discoloration in purees?
A: To prevent discoloration, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of ascorbic acid powder to the puree.