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How To Use a Mixer Grinder: A Comprehensive Guide

Synopsis

How To Use a Mixer Grinder? To use a mixer grinder, assemble the desired jar onto the main unit, add ingredients based on the jar’s purpose (wet grinding, dry grinding, or blending), secure the lid, and operate the appliance according to the recommended settings for efficient and versatile food processing.

Introduction

Masalas, purees, and chutneys are essential constituents of Indian cuisine. Cooking has become much smarter and quicker with the impressive range of the latest mixer grinders.

To prepare those mouth-watering dishes, all of the pureeing, chopping, mincing, grinding, mixing, and blending can be done in a matter of minutes. You just need to know how to use a grinder mixer effectively 🙂

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss, step-by-step, how to use a mixer grinder.

Do not miss out on the reviews of top-selling models of mixer grinders.

✅ Top 10 Mixer Grinders in India- Read here

✅ Best Mixer Grinders Under ₹4000 in India- Read here

✅ 5 Most Silent Low-Noise Mixer Grinders in India- Read here

Components of a Mixer Grinder

Ever wondered how your mixer grinder works its kitchen magic?

Let’s break it down – from the powerful motor to the handy jars.

A. Main Unit

The heart of the mixer grinder lies in its main unit, housing a powerful motor and a user-friendly control panel. The motor is the powerhouse that drives the blades in the jars, while the knob allows you to adjust settings according to your specific needs.

B. Jars

Mixer grinders come with a variety of jars, each designed for specific functions. Understanding the different types of jars is important.

Most mixer grinders come with some or all of the following jars:

  • Wet Grinding Jar: This jar, with its specially designed blades, is ideal for turning soaked grains and pulses into smooth pastes. Perfect for creating batters for dosas, idlis, and more.
  • Dry Grinding Jar: Tailored for grinding dry ingredients such as spices, nuts, and coffee beans, this jar is a must-have for achieving the perfect consistency in your recipes.
  • Chutney Jar: Smaller, this jar is perfect for creating flavorful chutneys, dips, and sauces. Its compact design allows for the efficient blending of smaller quantities.
  • Blender or liquidizing Jar: The blender jar is used to blend or puree ingredients into a smooth liquid. It can also be used to make smoothies, soups, sauces, dips, batters, and other recipes that require a fine consistency.
How to use grinder mixer
How to use mixer grinder?

How To Use Mixer Grinder? Step-by-step Guide

The steps to use a mixer grinder are, more or less, common – irrespective of the brands and the models.

Well, let’s understand how to operate a mixer grinder efficiently!

How To Use Mixer Grinder?

  1. Identify and gather the ingredients

    The first step is to collect the ingredients that you wish to process. It is a good idea to place them all together, right in the beginning, to avoid any miss-out.
    Dry Grinding Jar

  2. Select the appropriate jar

    Then, you need to choose the right type of jar based on your requirements. The main types of jars which come with mixer grinders are:
    i. wet grinding jars,
    ii. dry grinding jars,
    iii. chutney-making jars, and
    iv. juicer jars.
    Different jars have different uses. For instance, if you want to grind some dry spices, pick up the dry grinding jar.

    Learn more about mixer grinder jar uses. Read our article on the uses of mixer grinder jars here.
    Mixer Grinder Buying Guide

  3. Ensure to use the correct blade

    The blades, like jars, also come in different types. The most common ones are:
    i. wet grinding blades,
    ii. dry grinding blades,
    iii. chutney jar blades, and
    iv. mincing blades.
    These, as their names suggest, come attached to the respective jars. However, in case more than one blade can be used with a jar, make sure that you are using the right one. The quality of processing mainly depends upon the blade. So, this is an important step.

    Learn more about mixer grinder blade types and uses. Read our article on mixer grinder blade uses here.

  4. Pour the food items into the jar

    Once you are ready with the right blade attached to the right jar, gently pour the ingredients into the jar.

  5. Mix water and other ingredients

    In Indian cooking, we mostly need to mix or process more than one ingredient together. Just add them in the right quantity and add water, if required.

  6. Close & lock the jar lid

    After pouring the ingredients into the jar, you need to ensure that the lid is properly placed on it and locked tightly. Running the mixer grinder jar without the properly fitted lid should be avoided at all costs. Not only will there be a chance of accident or spillage, but it can also cause damage to the mixer grinder.

  7. Mount the jar onto the mixer grinder unit

    Place the jar onto the mixer grinder machine and see that the coupler is properly fitted. In most of the mixer grinders, you usually do this by twisting the jar gently until it is properly locked. If this is not done carefully, again, the mixer grinder unit may get damaged.

  8. Start the mixer grinder

    After the jar is placed correctly, put the plug into the electric socket and switch it on. Then start the mixer grinder by rotating the speed control knob. You need to start from the lowest speed and gradually increase the speed, as per your requirement.

  9. Use the right speed

    It is important to process the ingredients at the right speed. Some stuff like dry spices may require to be processed at a higher speed; while juicing, usually, is done at a lower speed. The speed of processing is vital for ensuring the quality and consistency of processing.

  10. Keep an eye on the consistency

    While you are processing the ingredients, it is important to keep looking at the consistency by checking it occasionally. To do this, stop the mixer grinder, remove the lid, and feel the consistency. This is important because foodstuffs are required to be processed in different consistencies – thick, medium, or fine.

  11. Switch off and unplug after usage

    When you are done with the job, switch off the mixer grinder unit. Do remember to unplug the mixer grinder electric cord from the electrical mains to prevent any type of accidental run or damage. ‘Safety first’ is the mantra here. 🙂

  12. Shift the processed stuff for use or storage

    It is advisable to shift the processed foodstuff from the jar immediately for usage or storage. The only exception here is the Grind & Store jars which are meant to be used for storing the foodstuff.

    ✅Did you know that Preethi Blue Leaf Platinum, a 4 Jars, 750 Watt Mixer Grinder also comes with a Grind & Store jar? Read the full review here.

    How to operate grinder mixer

  13. Clean thoroughly

    Lastly, the mixer grinder needs to be cleaned immediately after use. Clean the mixer grinder body with a damp cloth using non-abrasive liquid cleaner and wipe it dry thereafter. Other accessories & components like jars, blades, etc. should also be cleaned thoroughly.

    Just in case you missed out on the article on How to Effectively Clean a Mixer Grinder, click here to read the mixer grinder cleaning tips.

Bestselling Mixer Grinders on Amazon

ALSO READ: Best Mixer Grinders Under ₹4000

Mixer Grinder 3 Jar Uses

Understanding the distinct purposes of each of the 3 common jars in your mixer grinder is essential for using it like an expert.

A. Wet Grinding Jar

The wet grinding jar is designed for ingredients that require moisture for processing. It excels in creating smooth batters for dishes like dosas and idlis.

Additionally, it’s ideal for grinding soaked grains, transforming them into a consistency that enhances the texture and taste of your recipes.

Tips for Optimal Use:

  • Gradual Water Addition: Add water slowly during the grinding process to achieve the desired consistency.
  • Experiment with Soaking Times: Adjust soaking times for grains and pulses to achieve the perfect texture in your batters.

B. Dry Grinding Jar

When it comes to dry grinding, the specialized dry grinding jar is your ally in transforming whole spices, nuts, and coffee beans into fine powders or coarse textures, depending on your recipe requirements.

Tips for Effective Dry Grinding:

  • Pulsing Technique: Instead of continuous grinding, pulse the appliance for better control over the coarseness of the grind.
  • Clean and Dry Ingredients: Ensure that the jar is dry before use, and clean it thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination of flavors.

C. Chutney Jar

The chutney jar may be the smallest in size, but its impact on flavor is significant. Perfect for creating accompaniments like coconut chutney, mint chutney, or spicy dips, this jar excels in grinding small quantities of ingredients.

Tips for Chutney Making:

  • Liquid Addition in Stages: Add liquids gradually to control the thickness of the chutney.
  • Start Small: Begin with smaller quantities to ensure an even blend, especially when experimenting with flavors.

ALSO READ: 7 Best Juicer Mixer Grinders to Buy

Uses of Mixer Grinder in the Kitchen

The mixer grinder is a versatile kitchen companion with a wide range of applications that go beyond the basics.

Versatility in Food Preparation

  1. Grinding and Blending Spices: From whole spices to powders, the mixer grinder can handle the task efficiently, allowing you to experiment with aromatic spice blends.
  2. Making Purees and Pastes: Whether it’s tomatoes for a curry base or ginger-garlic paste for savory dishes, the mixer grinder can swiftly create smooth purees and pastes.
  3. Chopping Vegetables and Herbs: Save time and effort by using the mixer grinder for chopping vegetables and herbs, reducing prep time for your meals.

Time-Saving Benefits

  1. Quick and Efficient Meal Preparation: The mixer grinder streamlines the cooking process, making it a valuable asset for busy individuals who seek efficient meal preparation.
  2. Streamlining Cooking Processes: Tasks like grinding, blending, and chopping that would traditionally take time and effort can be accomplished swiftly with a mixer grinder.

Enhancing Culinary Creativity

  1. Trying New Recipes with Ease: Experiment with new recipes and cuisines, knowing that the mixer grinder can handle the diverse grinding and blending requirements.
  2. Customizing Textures and Flavors: Tailor the textures and consistencies of your dishes by experimenting with different grinding durations and techniques.

Healthy Cooking Practices

  1. Nutrient Retention in Homemade Blends: Create nutritious blends at home, preserving the natural nutrients in your ingredients without the additives found in store-bought options.
  2. Incorporating Fresh and Whole Ingredients: The mixer grinder allows you to incorporate fresh and whole ingredients into your recipes, promoting a healthier approach to cooking.

Kitchen Efficiency and Space Management

  1. Replacing Multiple Appliances with a Single Unit: The compact design of the mixer grinder makes it an efficient space-saving solution, replacing the need for multiple kitchen appliances.
  2. Compact Design for Small Kitchens: Especially beneficial for those with limited kitchen space, the mixer grinder’s compact design ensures it can fit seamlessly into smaller kitchens.

Also Read: 5 Best Food Processors For Home Use

Benefits of Mixer Grinder

A mixer grinder is more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s a versatile assistant that brings numerous benefits to your food preparation tasks.

Here are the most noticeable benefits of a mixer grinder:

Time-Saving Convenience:

  • Efficient Grinding: The powerful motor of a mixer grinder ensures quick and efficient grinding, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
  • One-Stop Solution: With multiple jars catering to various functions, you can perform different tasks seamlessly without switching between appliances.

Versatility in Cooking:

  • Multi-Functional Jars: From wet and dry grinding to blending and chopping, the variety of jars allows you to experiment with a wide range of recipes and cooking techniques.
  • Inspires To Experiment: The mixer grinder empowers you to explore diverse cuisines, try new recipes, and customize textures according to your preferences.

Nutrient Preservation:

  • Homemade Blends: Creating your spice blends, pastes, and purees at home ensures the retention of natural flavors and nutrients without additives found in pre-packaged alternatives.
  • Fresh Ingredients: The mixer grinder allows you to incorporate fresh and whole ingredients, contributing to healthier cooking practices.

Compact and Space-Saving:

  • All-in-One Appliance: The mixer grinder’s compact design replaces the need for multiple kitchen appliances, saving valuable counter space.
  • Ideal for Small Kitchens: Its space-efficient nature makes it a perfect fit for smaller kitchens where optimizing every inch of space is crucial.

Ease of Use:

  • User-Friendly Controls: Most mixer grinders come with simple and intuitive controls, making them accessible for all levels of culinary expertise.
  • Quick Assembly: Easy assembly and disassembly of jars simplify the usage, cleaning, and maintenance process.

Efficient Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Dishwasher Compatibility: Many mixer grinder jars are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze after each use.
  • Regular Maintenance: Simple maintenance practices, such as checking for loose parts and cleaning the blades, ensure a longer lifespan for your appliance.

Cost-Effective:

  • Economical Solution: Investing in a quality mixer grinder proves cost-effective compared to purchasing individual appliances for grinding, blending, and chopping.
  • Long-Term Savings: The durability and versatility of a mixer grinder contribute to long-term savings, eliminating the need for frequent replacements.

In conclusion, a mixer grinder goes beyond the basic functions of a kitchen appliance; it becomes a culinary companion that simplifies your cooking journey, promotes healthy practices, and adds a dash of creativity to your everyday meals.

Additional Resources

Top 10 Mixer Grinders in India

Best Mixer Grinders Under 4000

5 Best Food Processors For Home Use

7 Best Juicer Mixer Grinders to Buy

Philips HL7701 Viva Collection Mixer Grinder – Review & Price

Philips HL7756/00 Mixer Grinder Review

Sujata Dynamix Review & Price

Sujata Dynamix vs Supermix – Review & Price

What is Mincing in Mixer Grinder?

what is mincing in mixer grinder
What is mincing in mixer grinder?
Wondering what is mincing in mixer grinder?

Mincing is a food preparation technique that involves finely cutting foodstuffs into uniform pieces. Minced food is broken down into smaller portions than diced or chopped food, and it can be done using a mixer grinder or a food processor.
Garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs, for example, can be minced in this manner to distribute flavor more evenly in a mixture. Meat is also minced in a similar manner.

The mincer blade is usually used for crushing the ice and grating different foodstuffs like coconut, carrot, walnuts, almonds, and other dry fruits.

✅ Did you know that Preethi Mixer Grinder 750 Watts with 5 jars has a multi-purpose 2.1-liter Master Chef Plus jar and is one of the best mixer grinders for mincing? Read the full review here.

ALSO READ

7 Top selling Mixer Grinders for Domestic Use in India

7 Best Mixer Grinder with Low Noise

How to Take Care of Mixer Grinder?

Mixer Grinder Blade Types and Uses

Uses of Mixer Grinder Jars

Mixer Grinder Buying Guide

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of using a mixer grinder elevates your culinary experiences in the kitchen. From understanding its components to exploring creative uses, this guide aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make the most out of your mixer grinder.

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