WHEN YOU ACTUALLY NEED A FOOD PROCESSOR VS. A BLENDER

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We've all been there: You're making a salsa or pesto and you're not sure which appliance is best choice to blending all together. Food processors and blenders look a little different, but they both have blades, so does it matter which one you choose? In our quest to distinguish the two, we went to the Delish food team to get their advice. Read on to find out when to reach for a food processor or blender.

What Is A Food Processor?

A food processor is an electric appliance (although manual options do exist!) with multiple blades. They are ideal for chopping and slicing ingredients. They often come with several attachments that extend their capabilities, such as grating cheese. Compared to a blender, it has a shorter, wider bowl. Looking to buy a new one? Here's a guide to the best food processors you can buy.

When To Use A Food Processor

The consensus of the food team is to use a food processor when you're using less liquid or are processing large, hard items. Unlike blenders, where you need more liquid to blend ingredients, food processors are great for slicing, dicing, and mincing solid things like chunks of veggies or nuts.

"For me it depends on the texture I'm after," said Editorial Assistant Gabby Romero. "When I'm making falafel, pesto, or anything else that has some chunk-factor, I'm reaching for my food processor. I think it has something to do with the dimensions of the bowl and the increased control I have with the pulse button."

Other things the food team uses a food processor for are grating cheese, making dough or hummus, and cutting butter into flour.

What Is A Blender?

A blender has a tall, narrow receptacle and blades that are ideal for whipping up smooth liquids, like soups and smoothies. Most blenders have a large bowl that's makes pouring easy. If you're in the market for a blender, read our picks for the best ones you can buy.

When To Use A Blender

"Blenders are better for purees or anything when you want a silky smooth texture," said Assistant Food Editor Taylor Ann Spencer. This could be a batch of frozen margaritas or creamy milkshakes, or a summery gazpacho.

"If you need something pourable like sauces or soups: blender all the way," said Justin Sullivan, associate food producer.

You'll want to be careful with what you put in your blender. "You can actually damage blenders sometimes if you try to use them to blend things that are too hard or thick in texture," said Spencer.

Can A Food Processor And Blender Be Used Interchangeably?

There are some circumstances where a food processor and blender can be used interchangeably, according to Romero. For examples, if you're making a small batch of sauce or a dressing. "But I would say it's important to have both in your kitchen if you can."