Before settling into my current apartment, the idea of being an “appliance junkie” never crossed my mind. By Brooklyn standards, the space felt expansive, almost like it could house a restaurant supply store. Turns out, all it took was a bit more square footage to change my perspective. Now, I find myself frequently using a food processor, prompting the question: do you need one too?
Let’s break down exactly what a food processor is. At its core, it’s an appliance with a bowl, a lid, a base housing the motor, and a super-sharp blade. Think of it as a high-powered knife that excels at rapidly chopping and grinding various ingredients, from onions and nuts to hard cheeses, in mere seconds. The accompanying attachments expand its capabilities to shredding and slicing carrots (perfect for carrot cake!), cabbage (hello, slaw!), or potatoes (for crispy hash browns!). While some models boast fancy extras for kneading dough, juicing, or even household chores, this discussion will focus on the standard, no-frills version.
Who Actually Needs a Food Processor?
To be frank, unless you’re regularly making homemade nut butters or energy balls (foods virtually impossible to create at home without one), a food processor isn’t strictly essential. However, if you’re dedicated to meal prepping, dislike chopping, fear sharp tools like mandolines and box graters, or lack confidence in your knife skills, a food processor can be a worthwhile investment, making cooking faster and more enjoyable.
The Versatility of a Food Processor
I find myself using my food processor at least weekly to make hummus or bean dips, as well as textured sauces and dips. The “pulse” feature, standard on most models, provides control over the fineness of the chop. This makes food processors ideal for creating sauces like pesto (BA’s Best), green sauces, romesco, salsa, or nam prik, a chunky Thai chile dip.
Conversely, food processors aren’t the best choice for achieving perfectly smooth textures. If silky soups or smoothies are your primary focus and you only have space for one appliance, a high-powered blender is a better option.
The Verdict: Is a Food Processor Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a food processor depends on your individual cooking style and preferences. If you value speed, convenience, and versatility in the kitchen, a food processor can be a valuable asset. Consider your typical cooking habits and whether the functions of a food processor align with your needs. If so, it might be time to take the plunge and add this powerful tool to your culinary arsenal.
