How to Puree with an Immersion Blender

Known for their easy clean up and ability to puree smaller amounts of soup or sauces, immersion blenders are easy to use and a very handy tool to have on hand in the kitchen. Whether you are making a smoothie, soup or sauce, an immersion blender, also called a hand blender, can be tricky to use the first few times as they tend to splatter a bit. Here’s how to effectively use your immersion blender to eliminate splatter and puree and chop your food to perfection.

Step 1 – Choosing an Attachment

A typical immersion blender comes complete with a few attachments so that you can perform a variety of functions. If you are beating something, use the whisk attachment. For chopping food, use the chopping blade and bowl. If you are blending, use the immersion blender tool attachment. Attach the immersion blender tool attachment for pureeing and plug in the blender.

Step 2 – Secure Attachment

Most immersion blenders have a twist and lock feature so that you can be sure that the attachment is securely placed before beginning. Be sure that you have put the attachment on correctly and that it has snapped into place.

Step 3 – Insert the Blender

Place the blender in the ingredients you are pureeing and set the switch to ‘On.’ Use the blender until you reach the desired consistency of your food. While the immersion blender is small and convenient, it should only be used for small batches of food, so if you are making a larger portion, plan on using a regular blender or food processer. Also, be sure to immerse the attachment completely in any liquid that you are blending, as failing to do so will result in splattering. Use caution any time you are using an immersion blender with a hot liquid.

Step 4 – Remove the Blender

When you are done, turn the immersion blender to the ‘Off’ position. Lift the blender from the bowl and tap or shake it gently to remove any remaining ingredients.

Step 5 – Clean the Blender

Press the blender’s release button to remove the attachment from the blender’s wand. Carefully clean the attachment used, being sure to thoroughly dry it before you store it. Wipe down the immersion blender’s wand and store it in your kitchen in a place that allows for easy access.

By following these simple steps you can properly use the immersion blender with little problem. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s literature on use and cleaning to identify any unique issues with your immersion blender that may not be covered in this guide. Be sure to follow recommendations on use, as improperly use an immersion blender will make a large mess with splattering and, in the case of when working with hot liquids, can burn you. Though not suitable for all blending jobs, an immersion blender is great for pureeing small batches of food and is an excellent kitchen accessory.