The Blender
Almost the only tool you will need for your smoothies creations is a good blender. I say almost the only tool because you will use corers, peelers, knives, juicers, etc. in the process. But without fail, you will use a blender. So, finding the right blender is important for smoothie success. There are tons of brands out there, each with a variety of models. I have not tried enough blenders to truly tell you which one is the best, but I hope to bring some things to your attention in this page. What criteria are most important for blenders?
What’s under the hood?
Blenders come in different sizes and colors with different attachments, power levels, buttons, gadgets and gizmos. But the most important aspect for smoothie making is the
power with which it can blend together ice and frozen fruits. Power output for blenders is measured in watts. More wattage = more power. This measure will refer to a peak power output for the blender, since many blenders come with varying speeds. However, power isn’t our only concern here. Will you make single serving smoothies or drinks for the entire family?
It is also very important to get the right size blender for what you expect to be making. Going too small or too large will lead to a bad experience. Too small and you have to
make multiple smoothies. Too large and the smoothie won’t circulate right, will pull air down to create a pocket around the blades and stop the blending process. Blender sizes will typically be measured in ounces. Now, serving sizes will vary from individual to individual. If you are using a small glass, it may be around a cup, or 8 oz. A larger glass could be twice or three times the size. Most personal blenders are between 14 and 24 ounces. The next step from there is usually from 32-40 ounces and then from 48-64 ounces. Make sure that there will be enough room at the top of your blender for expansion during the blending process. Will the blender last or break next week?
Many times spending a bit more in order to get a higher quality blender will lead to greater savings in the end. A lot of smoothie making can really wear at a blender, its motor and its moving parts. The higher quality blenders will last a lot longer under the stress of frequent smoothie making. This is usually a bit more difficult to judge. Helpful reviews from previous customers, warrantys and general brand renown can help guide your pursuit of which blender will give you the right bang for the buck.
What else do you look for?
Each and every individual will have different tastes and desires for their blenders. Look at the following or think of some of your own qualities and put them in a list for when you are looking for a blender. Other things to look for and research during the blender search include how bulky it is (can it fit where you want it to fit?, are you going to store it in between smoothies?), how it looks, plastic or glass or stainless steel, price points, available attachments or extras. Basically anything else you would want in a blender. Put all these on the list of what to look for in your perfect smoothie machine.
Blenders come in different sizes and colors with different attachments, power levels, buttons, gadgets and gizmos. But the most important aspect for smoothie making is the
power with which it can blend together ice and frozen fruits. Power output for blenders is measured in watts. More wattage = more power. This measure will refer to a peak power output for the blender, since many blenders come with varying speeds. However, power isn’t our only concern here. Will you make single serving smoothies or drinks for the entire family?
It is also very important to get the right size blender for what you expect to be making. Going too small or too large will lead to a bad experience. Too small and you have to
make multiple smoothies. Too large and the smoothie won’t circulate right, will pull air down to create a pocket around the blades and stop the blending process. Blender sizes will typically be measured in ounces. Now, serving sizes will vary from individual to individual. If you are using a small glass, it may be around a cup, or 8 oz. A larger glass could be twice or three times the size. Most personal blenders are between 14 and 24 ounces. The next step from there is usually from 32-40 ounces and then from 48-64 ounces. Make sure that there will be enough room at the top of your blender for expansion during the blending process. Will the blender last or break next week?
Many times spending a bit more in order to get a higher quality blender will lead to greater savings in the end. A lot of smoothie making can really wear at a blender, its motor and its moving parts. The higher quality blenders will last a lot longer under the stress of frequent smoothie making. This is usually a bit more difficult to judge. Helpful reviews from previous customers, warrantys and general brand renown can help guide your pursuit of which blender will give you the right bang for the buck.
What else do you look for?
Each and every individual will have different tastes and desires for their blenders. Look at the following or think of some of your own qualities and put them in a list for when you are looking for a blender. Other things to look for and research during the blender search include how bulky it is (can it fit where you want it to fit?, are you going to store it in between smoothies?), how it looks, plastic or glass or stainless steel, price points, available attachments or extras. Basically anything else you would want in a blender. Put all these on the list of what to look for in your perfect smoothie machine.
In summary
So, in order to become a successful smoothie connoisseur, make sure to get the right blender for the job. When looking for a blender, focus on the blending power, the blender size, and the build quality. If you keep these three main points in mind along with the qualities you chose for yourself, you should be blending away long into the future.
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