When to Use a Stand Blender vs. an Immersion Blender
Sometimes personal preference dictates your choices, but when you have an immersion blender and a stand blender in your kitchen, which do you reach for to help you do some mixing? While both have their merits, there are instances where one is better than the other.
When it comes to blending, whipping, and puréeing, you’ve got choices: You can get out your stand blender or use a smaller, handheld immersion blender. Both appliances generally accomplish the same task. While they differ in size and cleanup, the biggest difference that sets them apart is power.
Plug in That Stand Blender
Although they take up a bit more space and require more cleanup, stand blenders have a leg up on immersion blenders in that they’re simply more powerful. That means they create creamier purées and smoother soups, sauces, and dips. Even though you have to work in batches with a hot soup, a smoother end product is worth the extra work. Stand blenders are also the better choice when working with firm ingredients, like frozen fruit in smoothies, or ice cubes for frozen cocktails.
Use a Stand Blender For:
- Smooth purées
- Creamy soups
- Creamy dips
- Smoothies made with frozen fruit and ice
- Frozen cocktails
Read More: Why I Like My Stand Blender More Than the Hand Blender for Soups
Grab an Immersion Blender
Immersion blenders prove to be a convenient tool for more than their compact size and easy-to-clean parts. When you’ve got small tasks at hand — like beating a few eggs, making whipped cream, or mixing salad dressing — or a job where more texture is desired, then your immersion blender is the right tool for the job. Immersion blenders aren’t quite as powerful as stand blenders, so the motor and blade might not hold up well with hard items like frozen foods and ice over time.
Use an Immersion Blender For:
- Beating eggs
- Dutch baby and pancake batter
- Making whipped cream
- Vinaigrette and dressings
- Chunky salsa
- Smoothies without hard ingredients