Immersion blenders (also called stick blenders or hand blenders) are a little less common than traditional blenders in your average kitchen — but they can be way more useful and, if you’re short on counter space, way more practical, too. They take up a lot less space, they can be a fraction of the price of regular powerful blenders, and they let you skip that messy transfer-from-pot-to-blender step that cooking sometimes requires. An immersion blender can puree an entire Dutch oven of soup right on the stove, as well as quickly blend a can of diced tomatoes. Some hand blenders also come with a mini food processor attachment for quickly dicing for dips, garlic and more. A whisk attachment can even make whipped cream.
Ready to get cooking with an immersion blender? Here are some of the best out there.
1. KOIOS oxasmart 12-Speed Immersion Hand Blender Set
A powerful engine and blade, as well as 12 speeds, makes this hand blender a, well, handy replacement for even high-powered blenders. Strong enough to blend greens and ice for smoothies in a glass or the included plastic cup, it can also be used in stockpots to blend soups. The included food processor can do everything from rough chop vegetables to grind spices. The whisk is great for whipped cream as well as frothing eggs for omelets.
2. Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick 9-Speed Immersion Blender
If you already have a food processor, you may see add-ons like the ones in the KOIOS model as excessive. If all you need is the ability to quickly blend food without transferring it to a blender, this sleek, minimalist Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick 9-Speed Immersion Blender has all you need. While it offers fewer accessories than our top pick, the powerful engine can still blend fibrous greens and tough foods.
also good for small kitchens.
3. Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender
With lots of accessories that nest together for easy storing and a comfortable grip, the Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender makes using an immersion blender feel luxurious. Breville regularly matches power with thoughtful features that make use and storage easier. For example, when not in use, the processor and jug nest together for easy storage. Lids allow you to store processed sauces, dips or drinks in the fridge once they’re made. The blender’s grip allows you to comfortably hold it and adjust speeds. The blades can also chop through ice and other tough foods easily.
4. Proctor-Silex Hand Blender
This Proctor-Silex Hand Blender is a great basic model if all you want is a hand blender for lighter blending needs, like making soups or smoothies. Even without a whisk, immersion blenders can still be used to create emulsions (like mayonnaise) and sauces. Two speeds still give you control. This hand blender is also perfect for beginner cooks who may not be ready to invest in a more expensive model.
5. Cuisinart Cordless SmartStick Hand Blender
While cordless hand blenders tend to be more expensive, cooks with few outlets in the kitchen may find this model to be a game-changer. With five speed settings, it’s still powerful enough to grind through ice on the highest setting. However, it only comes with a whisk, limiting the tasks it can do while still boasting a higher price tag than some other models. The blender holds up to 20 minutes of charge at a time.
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