Can I use a blender as a food processor? How to turn a blender into a food processor

Yes, you can use a blender as a food processor. However, you must note that a blender can not do all the jobs of a food processor. 

There is a lot of kitchen equipment swamping the market daily, and although it might be tempting to get all of them, most of this equipment can serve multiple purposes.

Why would you want to get two to three pieces of equipment when you can get one that serves the purpose of all three?

Food processors and blenders simplify the process of preparing food. Both work with a holding container and blades with various texture settings.

Given their similarity, you might wonder if you can use a blender as a food processor. Yes, you can use a blender as a food processor, but they have some little differences.

Below is a list of differences between these two pieces of equipment and how they can be substituted for each other.

Difference between a blender and a food processor

1. Blender works with only liquid.
2. The food processor contains several replaceable attachments, including slicing discs and blades, which you can use to grate and produce breadcrumbs and chop solid items.
3. Blender has a base with a fixed blade.

Can a blender be used in place of a food processor?

The two appliances are made for quite different uses. However, many people choose to use a blender instead of a food processor due to the large variety of accessories on a food processor.

A blender may be used instead of a food processor if the liquid is in the components. It can be used when you need to blitz sauces and do not need to chop huge amounts of food.

A food processor is the greatest choice if you want to prepare a large volume of food.

How to Turn a Blender Into a Food Processor

• Use a slow blending method

A blender operates more quickly than a food processor. It may smooth your food or drink considerably more than you had intended.

By letting it pulse in this case rather than mixing for a longer length of time, you may replicate the power of a food processor.

• Use little water 

Consider using less water, at least in the beginning, if you want a similar result with a food processor. Doing this may prevent your food from becoming watery or soupy.

Given that you are using a blender, you can gradually add additional liquid to get a smoother texture.

• Reduce the Ingredient Amounts

Instead of processing all the components at once in a blender, mix them in smaller batches.

The recommended amount to put in a food processor is about half of the jug. You can then increase the amount gradually. This will provide a consistency similar to what a food processor can produce.

The food at the top of the jug will appear differently from the bottom if there are too many components in the blender.

There’s a chance the food’s bottom has gone through too much processing. As a result, the overall outcome wouldn’t be the best.

• Utilize the Proper Settings

Change the settings of the blender to fit the job at hand. A blender typically has 3 settings, but some may have up to 6. You can research to check for the best settings for the task at hand.

Use the maximum speed setting if you plan to purée the components. The slowest speed option can be used if you cut ingredients.

To avoid wasting ingredients on your first attempt if it doesn’t turn out well, it is advised not to pour all the components at once.

What can you blend?

Blenders work well with liquid ingredients or for velvety smooth outcomes. Because the blender’s jar is tall and narrow, it creates a vortex that pulls items toward the blades.

This permits more rapid blade rotation and breaking down materials for more streamlined outcomes.

• Wet components

If your recipe is ingredients that are largely liquid or soft—like a smoothie or a pureed soup—a blender will be your best option.

Also, if you’re making something you can drink or eat without chewing, use a blender rather than a food processor.

• Bisques, sauces, and soups

Use a blender to get smooth results when making soups like creamy tomato soup, smooth lobster bisque, or a deliciously spiced cantaloupe gazpacho.

• Frozen drinks

A blender is your go-to kitchen tool for frozen beverages like frappéed frozen coffee drinks or cocktails like watermelon sangria, daiquiris, or frozen coconut margaritas. Choose a blender with an ice-crushing setting for frozen foods.

What other equipment can you use instead of a food processor?

In addition to a blender, additional kitchen tools may act as a food processor. Your options include:

• Mixer
• Mortar and pestle
• Grinder
• Grater
• A rolling pin and a plastic bag
• Knives
• Chopper

You should select one based on the task you expect to do. For example, use a mixer when you need to combine components like flour, butter, and milk to produce dough.

Chopsticks and knives can cut up meats, fruits, and vegetables. If you want minced or shredded food, you may use a grater.

FAQ

Do I need a blender or a food processor?

Given that they perform distinct tasks, this equipment is useful for both professional chefs and household cooks. The one you should acquire depends on the kind of foods you often prepare.

If you are dealing more with dry ingredients, you should get a food processor; otherwise, the blender is your go-to.

Which is less expensive?

Price, as always, plays a huge role in decision-making. This is why we have checked out the price of these two, and we can say that they have very close price ranges.

Although you might get a food processor for a little more than the price of a blender.