Bowl Mixers
Many housewives dream to get a mixer, which simplifies the process of cooking. There is a wide range of models, among which it is difficult to determine which type of appliance is suitable for your kitchen. This article describes the main types of mixers with bowls, as well as tips on choosing such a device.
Kinds
Kitchen mixer is designed for whipping and mixing ingredients. It differs from the blender in that it does not have such a high speed of work and does not have blades, due to which it is possible to turn components into a single-born mass.
Based on the control method, mixers can be divided into two types: manual and stationary.
Handheld machines for the home, as well as the immersion blender, are in the hand during use, from which they got their name. All buttons are located on the case so that the control is as convenient as possible. On the body, as a rule, there are two nozzles for beating and mixing products.The number of nozzles can reach four. Such a home mixer will be convenient for the confectioner, because it can be used for kneading batter, creams and sauces.
Stationary home appliances can be: universal, with a bowl, for cocktails. Such a device has more power than manual models, so they can be represented by professional or semi-professional models. They are often used not only in the kitchen, but also in restaurants and canteens.
The design consists of a housing under which the electric motor hides, a set of interchangeable nozzles and a bowl. Such mixers are multifunctional devices, because due to the increased power and diversity in the nozzles, they can be used for a variety of purposes.
There are special mixers with a cocktail bowl. They are quite rare in the kitchen, because they have limited functionality. Such a household appliance consists of a body, one or two attachments, a tall glass, which is attached with a bezel to a slot on the body.
Some firms offer professional planetary mixerswhose power is 1000 watts.The device has 12 speeds 4 nozzles, a spatula and a steel cup with a lid. On the case there is a screen that provides comfortable use of the desktop unit. The present timer will allow you to do your housework while the mixer is doing the assigned tasks.
Can also be noted Food processorsthat apply to multifunction devices with a mixer. Many manufacturers offer these units, allowing you to save space in your kitchen due to the large number of additional options. You do not need to purchase a blender, mixer and other items separately, all this is present in one device.
Features of models
Bowl mixers are among the electromechanical equipment, which differs in the volume of its bowl. A bowl may have a volume: 1 liter, 1.5, 2 and even more. Models vary in manufacturing material. There are devices with plastic, glass bowls and porcelain. Units with cups from metal are very popular.
Kitchen mixers with a bowl are in great demand because they are more functional and powerful than manual representatives. There are models with a rotating bowl.In them, the bowl is on a special stand, and while the device is working, it turns along with the beaters. This makes it possible to obtain high-quality mixing of the components and no need to participate in the cooking process.
Bar apparatuses that are used to make cocktails have glasses, so you will not confuse them with other models. As mentioned earlier, they are rarely bought, as they are limited in functionality.
The latest innovation in the home appliance industry is the planetary mixer. Its distinctive feature is that in it the rims are turned in one direction, and the electric drive moves in the opposite direction.
It should be noted that in the configuration of each mixer there is a whisk for beating, which is not in the blender type set. You must purchase the whisk for the last device in addition.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before you make the choice of a mixer, you should be familiar with the technical characteristics and advantages of the models. If you choose between a manual and stationary model, pay attention to the features of each type.
Advantages of a hand mixer:
- compact size. In most cases, devices of this type have small dimensions, along with low weight;
- conveniently located buttons on the case allow you to easily select the desired mode;
- the mixer does not require a large storage area;
- Some models can run on batteries;
- easy care. For cleaning, you will need to remove the nozzle by rinsing it with warm water;
- energy saving. As a rule, units of this type have a low power level;
- low price, compared to stationary mixers.
Despite the advantages described, there are also disadvantages in such devices, which include the following:
- mandatory participation of a person in the process of cooking;
- low level of performance.
Stationary mixer It will be convenient in the event that you feel the need for frequent beating and mixing of a large number of products. In most cases, such devices are used in the field of public catering.
Advantages of a stationary mixer:
- automatic work. The mixer itself is engaged in whipping and mixing products, without human intervention;
- high power;
- multifunctionality. The device can knead the dough, beat the drinks, sauces, cook fruit and vegetable puree;
- high quality of work;
- many stationary models have a rotating bowlwhich allows to mix products evenly.
The disadvantages include:
- large dimensions;
- considerable weight;
- high price category.
It should be noted that in addition to the manual and stationary mixer, there are mixed units for sale, in which there is a special stand with easy dismantling function.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a model, you should consider the purpose for which you purchase a mixer. Hand mixers need to be constantly kept in a hand, and stationary prepare food independently, at the same time demanding an additional platform in the kitchen space.
Stationary models have numerous advantages, they have a high level of power, but at the same time the price is much higher than the manual units.
To make a choice, you should decide how it will be more comfortable to shake up the raw materials. If you can always hold the mixer in your hand, controlling the entire manufacturing process, you can buy a manual model and not overpay for any extra money.The result of cooking, in any case, will be identical. In this case, using a stationary device, you can safely go about your business while the device does its work.
If you decide to buy a mixer with a bowl, be careful about the choice of its size. The greater the volume of the bowl, the better it is to use. To date, there are models of mixers in the stores, with a bowl capacity of 1.5-2 liters. Pay attention to the material manufacturing bowls, there are models with glass, iron and plastic containers. There are versions with a closed lid that prevents the appearance of splashes.
There are modified models, with a rotating bowl and nozzle. The cost of such equipment will be higher, but the mixing of products is of higher quality.
The choice should be made, guided by some principles.
Power
Power is responsible for the speed of work. High power ensures the speed of mixing the dough with a thick consistency, because the nozzles spin at high speed. The traditional hand mixer has a capacity of 160-350 W, while more modern devices with a bowl are more powerful and can reach 400 W.
The number of nozzles in the set
In the standard configuration there are two nozzles: for beating and mixing. You should not pay attention to the form and method of work, because the material and reliability are of paramount importance.
Quite often, you can find special-purpose nozzles that are needed to prepare various dishes. For example, there is a nozzle for creating mashed potatoes, vegetables and fruits. There is an addition that grinds raw materials using a special removable knife made of stainless steel.
Auxiliary options
A mixer may have a different number of speeds, about 3-5. But this is far from the limit, because some advanced models can combine about 12 speeds in themselves. To facilitate the operation, on the device there are pictures that describe the purpose of each mode.
If you like the rapid preparation of mixtures, take a look at the "Turbo mode". This option dramatically accelerates the operation of the device for a short period. Already after a few seconds, the unit will begin to work as before, to eliminate the possibility of engine overheating.It is relevant for the rapid elimination of lumps that can not be removed during normal mode.
"Pulse mode" has a similar effect, the speed of pressing the button affects the rotation speed.
In each mixer there is an option "Emission of nozzles" and "Protection against an overstrain". For example, if your unit runs for a long time at high speed, it can overheat. In the presence of protection, the mode is turned on at a dangerous moment and the mixer is turned off.
Some mixers may be ready cooking devices. This is facilitated by a heated bowl, which is provided in the traditional way (with the help of heating elements) or induction (made of stainless steel alloy). This option will help you to carry out frying, boiling and so on.
For convenient operation, choose a device with a rubber handle, check the compartment where the cord is hiding. Often in the configuration there are various spatulas, measuring glasses, along with brushes for cleaning.
Choose the model that best suits your requirements. Pay attention to the length of the cord, so that it was enough to reach the outlet, on the material of the body.It is believed that metal devices are more reliable, but they also have a large mass. Powerful mixers better cope with the tasks, while accompanied by loud work.
Manufacturers Overview
All types of mixers are produced by numerous companies. To choose a high-quality device, it is better to pay attention to well-known brands that have long been on the market of home appliances and have received the status of a reliable company. Among the various brands are three categories of companies that have won the respect of customers:
- The very best mixers are offered by companies such as Bosh, Braun, Vitek, Moulinex, Tefal, Electrolux and Panasonic. They are among the most reputable brands proven over the years. The products of companies are made from high quality raw materials, the equipment works almost silently. High-quality electrics, easy installation of nozzles and auxiliary components increase the demand for data models of firms.
- In a cheaper, but no less quality category are representatives of companies: Zelmer, Fagor, Ariete, ProfiCook, Clatronic, Sinbo. The equipment is accompanied by a high level of assembly, long service life.
- In the third category are mixers, which have a low price and good quality. It should be borne in mind that this technique does not like overloading and requires careful attention. These are company mixers. Aurora, Viconte, Mystery, Steba, Maestro, Delta, Scarlett, Polaris.
If you are serious about buying a mixer and want to buy a really high-quality product, then you should be guided by customer reviews. Manufacturers such as KitchenAid, Kitform, have a good reputation among bowl mixers. If we consider the reviews of these devices, it can be noted that they are positive.
Customer Reviews
Buyers who purchased company mixers Bosh, praise the technique for operational work, high-quality and uniform beating, along with the complete absence of splashes. The devices are suitable for families with small children, as the mixer is accompanied by noiseless operation.
Consumers say good build quality is not only the case itself, but also components. Bowls are convenient to wash and have a normal size, which is quite an important factor in the process of cooking. You do not need to make repeated downloads, because all the necessary volume of products will fit in one go.
Mixers from Mulinex also earned positive characteristics from the hostesses. Reviews speak about high-quality whipping, convenient operation, efficient work. Of the shortcomings, there is only an insufficiently long cord. For those who have sockets in the distance, the device may cause some trouble.
Mixers Vitek recommend all buyers. The manufacturer offers products with high build quality, convenient use. The unit provides quiet operation, which is convenient in families with children. You can cook at that moment, while the child is asleep and not be afraid that the outside noises will wake the child.
Brands like Scarlet, Polaris, Delta, refer to the budget models. They efficiently cope with the assigned tasks and justify their price. They cannot boast the same low noise level as representatives from Witek or Bosch, but they are good enough for their segment. If you correctly use the device, the mixer does not cause any complaints. As a rule, they are used by those housewives who need a mixer less frequently and for small tasks. For example, for the preparation of sauces, mayonnaise, creams.