How to Use an Immersion Blender

An immersion blender is a great kitchen tool especially for those with limited counter space. The compact immersion blender, sometimes called a hand blender, generally comes with three attachments that make chopping, pureeing and whipping quick and easy.

What You Need

• Immersion blender
• Blender attachment
• Item to blend, whip, puree
• Bowl

Step 1 – Choose Your Attachment

Most immersion blenders come with three attachments. A whisk attachment is good for making sauces, creams and beating eggs, while the blending attachment works for pureeing foods and making smoothies. A chopping attachment and bowl can be used to quickly dice vegetables. Depending on what you are making, you will use the appropriate attachment.

Step 2 – Secure the Attachment

Immersion blenders have a mechanism that holds the attachment in place securely. You will need to insert the attachment into the wand of your immersion blender and in most cases, turn the attachment clockwise to lock it into place. Some immersion blenders have different mechanisms to lock the attachment in place. If that is the case with your blender, follow the instructions in your owner's manual. Snap it into place and ensure that it is secure.

Step 3 – Begin Using Your Immersion Blender

You will next insert your immersion blender into the food product that you wish to mix or blend. If you are using the chopper attachment and bowl, this is already done for you. You want the blender to be inserted into the food before you turn it on or splattering will occur, which is especially problematic if the liquid is hot. Turn the blender at a slight angle and hold it a bit away from the bottom of the bowl and turn it on.

Step 4 – Complete the Task

Leave the immersion blender on until your food is completely mixed, pureed, beaten or chopped. You may need to lift the blender in and out of the food, taking care not to lift it out of the food, so that it is completely mixed and blended. Once you have reached a consistency that works for you, turn the blender to off.

Step 5 – Clean the Blender

Press the release button on the immersion blender’s wand to allow the attachment to be detached. Pull it apart from the wand and wash it in soap and water. Wipe down the wand of the immersion blender with a wet washcloth, but do not immerse it in water. Let the parts dry completely before putting it away for storage.

An immersion blender is a very helpful and compact tool for your kitchen. It is easy to use and can perform multiple functions quite easily, making it a great addition for any size kitchen. Look online for recipes like smoothies, vegetable and bean soups, and desserts to give your diet a kick with this quick-performing appliance.