How Food Processors Work
A food processor is a versatile small kitchen appliance that easily and quickly chops, slices, shreds, grinds, and purees most kinds of food. Some food processors even have functions that can help make citrus and vegetable juice, beat cake batter, knead bread dough, beat egg whites, or grind veggies and meat. The Basic Components The motor is housed in the base of the food processor and is the heaviest part of the device. Full-sized food processors generally have larger, more powerful motors, and can weigh more than 20 pounds. However, the heavy weight does provide functional value: The heaviness of the base gives the food processor stability and ensures that it doesn't move or shake while the motor is running. |  |
From the motor, a shaft extends upward to power the Hamilton Beach food processor attachments. The bowl, which is typically made of durable, transparent plastic, fits onto this shaft and locks into place. The lid, usually made of the same plastic material, locks onto the top of the bowl. In many older models, engaging the lid-locking mechanism turns on the motor, but newer models generally have an on/off switch or button.
The lid has a hole, or "feed tube," that's fitted with a plunger. You can insert food into the device through the feed tube, pushing it down into the bowl with the plunger. Varying models have wider or narrower feed tubes for use with larger or smaller food items. The size of the bowl varies according to the size of the food processor. Some higher-end food processors come with large and small bowls for use with the same base.
- Full-size bowls generally have a capacity of 9 to 13 cups
- Compact-size bowls can accommodate 5 to 7 cups
- Mini-size bowls can fit 2 to 5 cups
Though the first food processors were only available in white and hard plastic, today they are available in a range of stylish colors and in metal and plastic finishes. You can be assured that your food processors will mesh perfectly with your kitchen decor.