Food Processors

1. If you haven't experienced the joy of using a food processor to speed along your cooking, you're really missing out. Whether you're making soup, pesto, mole, or simply grating parmesan, it is the single most versatile item in your kitchen.

2. You may think you want lots of attachments, but chances are you'll just end up using the blades 90 percent of the time. We think focusing on a quality motor and a solid construction is more important. If you like to use a food processor for things like dicing and chopping vegetables, that's great, but learning to use a knife well will get it done just as fast or even faster. You'll be like John Henry in the kitchen.

3. Plus, many of these added 'features' turn out to be cheap plastic parts that add to the cost without adding value. Better to put that money into buying a food processor with a better motor and reputation.

4. Food processors spin their blades remarkably fast and, because of this, usually have rigorous safety devices. This can be frustrating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. Plus, it's fun to watch guests come over and try to figure out how to make it go.

5. It's a good idea to seriously consider size with your food processor. You want one that is big enough to do good amounts of soup, but try to get one you can keep on your counter. They are often heavy and you might be reluctant to take it out. The result would be more money spent, fewer uses, and less interesting things happening in your kitchen.

6. Be careful when putting potatoes in your food processor. Many people think they're going to get mashed potatoes, but what they end up with is some kind of gooey paste. Unfortunately, the blades move too quickly for fluffy, delicious mashed potatoes. If you make this mistake, the best you can do is turn that into some potato soup, which isn't so bad at all.

7. Once you get used to using a food processor, you'll want it to use it a lot. And usually it isn't for things like large batches of soup. Many companies make small units with detachable bowls and a handle that can double as an immersion blender or whisk. Get one of these for those smaller jobs.