If you are considering buying a ninja blender you should know that there are many different models depending on your needs and budget. In case you are wondering about how to use a ninja blender, rest assured that it works in the same way that a regular blender does.
The difference between them is that a ninja blender uses less electricity and is more functional in the kitchen. There are large models of this kitchen appliance that will be great for big families or for individuals who like to gather friends and family over to have a party.
How to Use a Ninja Blender as a Food Processor?
Nowadays having a blender in your kitchen is essential because with it you can do so many different things with its help. You can put a lot of food items in it and use it just like a food processor, no extra steps need to be taken. I would advise that you chop the ingredients into small bits before putting them into the ninja blender.
It is also good to only process one ingredient at a time. You may also want to know how to use your ninja blender as a juicer. You simply put cut up pieces of ingredients into the pitcher and then pulse the machine. Unlike when you’re making a smoothie, you don’t need to add any liquid.
After your ingredients are sufficiently liquidated. You can either strain or drink it as it is. Past, let me tell you another great secret about your ninja blender! If you don’t have a cheese grater at home, you can just pulse pieces of parmesan cheese to grate it. Isn’t that astonishing? This way, you can enjoy whatever food you want processed.
For example, you could prepare delicious cocktails, whip up hot and spicy sauces for nachos, or put together a beautiful protein smoothie after your Sunday workout. Most people are looking for instructions on how to use a ninja fit blender. You should follow your manual when it comes to filling it up. Unlike a pitcher ninja blender, It doesn’t come with a lid, so pay attention.
You should first fill it with crunchy items like apple and cucumber slices. Add leafy greens and liquids later, and ice last. Screw it properly in place and pulse it to get a smoothie that’ll help in your healthy eating habits. Additionally, you can prepare hearty soups for unbearably cold evenings and you can make baby foods by mixing only the freshest vegetables and fruits.
This way you can be sure of quality instead of purchasing the ready-made stuff from supermarkets and feeding that to your baby or toddler. Ninja blenders came around somewhere at the beginning of 2000s. And they have since become an integral part of every health-conscious household. They’ve thrived mainly because of their simplicity, versatility and modern design that complements most kitchen interiors.
Ninja Blender Using Tips
- When you’re making smoothies, instead of using water, use ice cubes to make sure your smoothie’s delicious taste and flavor does not get diluted.
- If you want to keep your blender in mint condition for a long time, you should never, ever leave it dirty after whipping up food. Always clean your ninja blender within a few minutes of using it.
- Don’t ever overfill your ninja blender as the texture of your smoothie or puree (or whatever it is you’re making) will be off and you’ll have no one to blame for that gruesome taste.
- Start processing your smoothie on the slowest setting and increase the speed later, if needed.
- Always add ice as the last ingredient, as adding it early would leave you a thin, watery smoothie.
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Ninja Blender Basics
For the last couple decades, ninja blenders have been considered to be one of the top-selling kitchen appliances, mainly because they are durable and very well priced. Moreover, they come with a beautiful modern design that will compliment any kitchen interior. One of the most important reasons why customers choose ninja blenders is for their functionality and price.
The blenders are compact which means you can store them in cupboards whenever they are not needed. This will be great for people that have small kitchens or live in a studio apartment. Secondly, the blenders are quite powerful which means you can mix even hard ingredients together such as kiwi and ice to make a beautiful kiwi smoothie.
Three Main Types of Ninja Blenders
Countertop Ninja Blenders
Countertop blenders that are made in standard size and are usually a little heavier than the other models. These are best both if you have countertop space that you can use to place the blender on. They are best used for a variety of tasks and will be best for large households that will be using the blender there regularly.
Keep in mind that this model can be a little hard to clean because customers have reported there to be many corners, hooks and nooks. But they are considered to be the sturdiest ones among all ninja blenders.
Personal Ninja Blenders
These blenders have been specially designed to be small in size and compact. You can carry them with yourself in your sports bag or lunch bag. Of course, you could also keep these on countertops. They are much easier to hide away when you do not need them. As a result, you could just unplug the device and hide it on a shelf in a cupboard or take it to a pantry if you have one at home.
The capacity of such a blender is limited. It is built for moderate use and in case of a small family or a couple, this should be sufficient. It gives you a very good option to make small portions of protein shake or berry smoothie after an enduring gym workout.
Immersion Ninja Blenders
We have the immersion ninja blender. Basically, this is a small handheld blender that you can place in your pantry, kitchen drawer or kitchen cabinet. It is great for small kitchens as it doesn’t need any countertop space. Plus some individuals tend to carry it along to be used afterwards.
The only disadvantage of this model is that it is not suitable for older people that might have weak hands, or those who suffer from pain in the joints or arthritis.
Popular Types of Ninja Blenders
Basic ninja blenders are for individuals that prefer to have something to make a smoothie once in a while but do not intend to use the blender more than once or twice a week. Regardless of the workload, basically these blenders will be capable of crushing ices with their sharp blades. Plus, they will be ideal for mincing vegetables and fruits.
In other words, they will give you versatility without taking up much space. Intelli-sense blender is a type of ninja blender that has been designed to act as a food processor, vegetable spiralizer as well as a regular blender. Due to the unique features, it is considered to be the second most favourite model among all ninja blenders.
These blenders come with a control panel in the front that allows you to choose what setting you require. You can also set it on automatic mode in which case depending on what container you will attach. The program will determine the best mode on its own. Furthermore, there is the Ninja chef range that is considered to be the best.
It comes with a special pump that removes the oxygen from the mixing container before beginning to blend. This process allows for the vitamins and minerals to remain intact and avoid being oxidized. In turn, the ready-made product will be more nutritious. Also, this model has titanium coated blades that work with cyclonic force. Hence it is ideal from making anything from soups to smoothies and dough.
Downsides of Ninja Blenders
The main disadvantage of ninja blenders is that a lot of customers have complained that due to their powerful motor they tend to make a lot of noise when working. Therefore, you will not be able to use it when your kids are asleep or when you want to whip up a smoothie at night before going to bed. Another point that a lot of individuals have brought up is the mixing cups.
Because of their design where the cup is more narrow at the bottom, it’s very difficult to properly clean. The trick can be for you to wash the cup before the ingredients stick-on and dry up. You can check if the ninja blender you possess is dishwasher safe. Otherwise, you can try blending warm water and a dollop of dishwasher detergent in it to clean it sufficiently.
Also Read: Best Countertop Water Filter – A Great Way to Access Safe Water
How to Use a Ninja Blender?
To start a ninja blender make sure that you properly plug it in, avoid doing that with your wet hands because you can get an electric shock. Once you plug in the blender, take the lid off and put other ingredients you require to make a drink. This includes ice, fruits and vegetables if the recipe calls for it.
Then, depending on what you are making you will need to either pour in the water, milk or protein liquid. Aim to pour enough liquid for the ice or other ingredients to be covered however leave enough space for the air. Also keep in mind that when you will turn on the blender. The liquid will splash so put pressure on the lid.
Then press the power button and wait for 30-40 seconds for your drink to be ready. Pour yourself a drink and try to immediately clean the blender so that ingredients will not dry out. In order to avoid any accidents and possible injuries never open the cover while the blender is still running.
Moreover, never use any utensils while the blades are moving; this includes never putting a spoon or fork inside while the blender is on. If you need to take something out or add something, switch off the blender, do what you have to, put the lid on and then turn it back on. Also, never place your hand or fingers into the cup while the blender is plugged in even if, at first sight, it may seem to be turned off.
How to Sharpen the Blades of a Ninja Blender
If your blender’s blades start rusting or you notice that they are no longer chopping your food the way they used to, don’t hurry to throw your blender out. You can sharpen them on your own at home. Since the blades are made of metal, they can easily be sharpened within a couple of minutes using tools that you probably already have at home. However, before you begin sharpening the blades you will need to take the blender apart.
Steps to Sharpen a Ninja Blender’s Blades
- Always remove the blender from the electric sockets so that you will eliminate any risk of getting an electric shock or possible injuries from accidentally turning the blender on.
- Once you have done that, pull the base of the blender apart from the glass or metal pitcher located right on the top.
- After removing the blades you will need to properly clean them. Start by rinsing the blade under running water.
- Proceed to rub them with the dishwashing liquid and a metal sponge. Make sure that the blades are free from any food remains.
- Once you have done this, dry the blades with a clean and dry microfiber cloth. If you have any difficulty removing the blades just twist and turn them anti-clockwise.
- As a safety precaution, you might want to wear thick rubber gloves when handling the blades. The blades may not be as sharp as new ones but there is still a great risk for you to hurt your hands.
- Once you have the blade in your hand, start by running it on your sharpening stone. Make sure that you tip the blade at the right angle.
- Also, only move the blade away from your body and not towards yourself to avoid getting an injury. Once you have sharpened one side, switch to another.
- Each Ninja blade will have four sides that you will need to sharpen in a slow manner to ensure proper handling.
- After you have finished sharpening all the blades from all sides, rinse them in water and dry with a dry cloth. Then put them back and reassemble your ninja blender.
You might want to check your ninja blender manual for more instructions on how to sharpen the blades.
Also Read: Best Carving Knife – Reviews & Buying Guide
A Surprise Recipe!
You know I can’t resist recipes, especially ones that are quirky and unusual! Today, let me introduce you to a pancake recipe- made using a ninja blender! To use ninja blender to make pancakes as well, just add to the pitcher required ingredients such as:
- 300 ml of room temperature milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of of sunflower oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 cups of flour
Pulse everything together, and then heat up a wok to make the pancakes. This will save you time whipping everything manually. The task can be tiring to say the least.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I would like to remind you that having a ninja blender at home is a great thing because it allows you to prepare various dishes. Kids might get tired of regular broccoli soup but with a blender you can spice things up by adding some heavy cream and whipping everything up.
Adults can benefit from having an appliance that makes protein shakes or delicious sauces to be served with entree or appetizers. If you have teenagers in the family you can easily teach them how to use ninja blenders on their own. This way, they can make a smoothie after school and before you get home from work to prepare lunch for the whole family.
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