What the heck is an immersion blender and how do I use it?

A personal chef client in Northbrook got an immersion blender as a gift. The client, an avid home chef herself, had absolutely no idea how or when she’d use it. My immersion blender is a can’t live without component of my personal chef kit. I use almost daily and actually keep a back up on hand just in case it konks out. It’s lightweight, easy to use and simple to clean. Here’s the scoop…

When to Use an Immersion Blender

For me, an immersion blender doesn’t completely replace a food processor or blender, but I use it for the same kinds of jobs where the scale is smaller or when the using/dragging out other seems like a hassle.

• Marinades, Sauces & Pestos – If the recipe calls for minced this and chopped that, I skip most of the time consuming up front chopping, put all of the ingredients into a bowl, give it a zap with my with my immersion blender and I’m done in a fraction of the usual time.
• Purée Soups – When the the next step in the recipe is to pour the hot soup carefully into a blender or food processor, I stick my immersion blender directly into the soup pot instead. No messy pouring from place to place or foggy glasses from the steam.
• Fillings – My go to Lasagna filling includes a 1/2 c of chopped basil, egg, ricotta, Parmesan and mozzarella. Just like with marinades, I toss everything into a bowl, zap it around and it’s done. Fast, clean and no having to dig out a food processor blade…which if you’ve done you understand the angst.

My immersion blender includes a chopper attachment which I use to chop large amounts of garlic, herbs, nuts, etc.

How to Clean It

If your manufacturer gives specific instructions follow those of course, but if not here’s how I clean it:

Unplug the immersion blender. Safety first always.

If the cutting end is removable take it off. If not it’s fine and follow the same instructions without immersing the handle completely in water.

First try to rinse out any debris on the tip under running water. Then, fill a small bowl, I use a 2 cup measuring cup, with warm soapy water. Dip the tip of the immersion blender in and shake vigorously. Rinse and air dry. Wipe down the handle with warm soapy water as well. That’s it! You can’t throw it in the dishwasher, but cleaning is quick and easy regardless.

And that’s that! If you have any questions or need any immersion blender friendly recipes just ask!