Whether it's a batch of cookies or a big pot of soup, if you love cooking and baking, then there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of whipping up a delicious meal or treat. But in order to make your culinary creations, you need the right tools. And when it comes to mixers, the sheer variety out there can be overwhelming to a newcomer. So, how do you figure out which mixer is right for you?
Well, it all depends on what you're looking to make. In this article, we’ll go through some of the different types of mixers and what they’re best suited for. All you have to do is think about what types of foods you like to prepare and consider that alongside the following information. Read on and you’ll be mixing up delicious treats in no time!
Different Types of Mixers
The term "mixer" is a catch-all that actually refers to several distinct styles of appliance, all of which perform unique tasks. The three most well-known ones are stand mixers, hand mixers, and immersion mixers. Let's briefly go over each type.
Stand mixers are the most versatile and powerful type of mixer. As the name implies, they're designed to stand on your countertop, with the bowl placed directly under the whisks. Due to their extra power and stability, they're particularly well-suited for labor-intensive tasks like kneading dough or mixing a large batch of cookie dough.
Hand mixers are often referred to as simply "mixers" due to their sheer popularity. They're similar to stand mixers, but these devices are designed to be held in your hand and placed into the batter or dough you're working with. They're much lighter than stand mixers, making them a great option if you require portability.
Immersion mixers refer to a specific type of handheld mixer - rather than relying on whisks or interchangeable attachments, they're designed to be immersed into a pot while the ingredients are cooking. These mixers are ideal for blending soup ingredients into puree, but their usefulness is relatively limited outside this niche.
How To Determine What Mixer You Need
If you're like most people, you probably have a mixer or two in your kitchen already. But you might not be sure which one is most useful for the recipes you make most often or which one you need to try new recipes. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right mixer for the job.
What Recipes Do You Make Often?
First, think about the types of recipes you make most often. Do you find yourself baking cakes and cookies from scratch? If so, you'll want a mixer that can handle dense dough and batter; look for one with a powerful motor and a dough hook attachment. If you make a lot of quick bread and lighter cakes, a hand mixer will do the job just fine. If you like experimenting with different recipes that range from smoothies to soups, make sure to choose a mixer that comes with all the necessary attachments you might want to use.
How Much Food Do You Mix at Once?
Next, consider the size of your recipes. If you usually work with large batches, you'll need a mixer that can handle a correspondingly large volume of ingredients. A stand mixer is your best bet for big batches, though it can take up a lot of room, so you’ll need to have sufficient counter and storage space. A hand mixer should be more than enough for smaller recipes.
How Often Do You Use a Mixer?
Finally, think about how often you'll use your mixer. If you only bake a few times a year, a hand mixer may be the most practical and economical option. But if you're an avid baker or home chef, you might want to invest in a stand mixer that can handle all your baking and cooking needs.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to choose one, you can use this information to make a successful investment in a new mixer, perfect for your needs! Happy baking!
