What Is A Stand Mixer? – Pros And Cons Of Using One

A mixer provides great convenience in doing some food preparation steps. It helps make things faster compared to doing things manually. Some baking newbies are a bit confused as to what type of mixers they should get. In this article, let's talk about the stand mixer – what is a stand mixer plus other things you need to know.

Let’s Define A Stand Mixer

A stand mixer is a kitchen device with a gear in the middle. It automates the stirring, whisking, or beating process of food preparation. It has a body that holds the mixer and lets it stand alone. Therefore, you don't have to hold it to do the mixing compared to a hand mixer. It is usually used when mixing dough and other recipes that require heavy mixing.

The Pros Of Getting A Stand Mixer

Here are some of the advantages you get when you choose to buy a stand mixer.

It will make the mixing, beating, or whipping process faster compared to a hand mixer.
Stand mixers will allow you to multitask. Since it can function on its own, you can leave it to do its work while you do other tasks.
It comes with useful attachments just like a dough hook, whisk, and paddle. It comes with its own bowl, too.

The Cons Of Getting A Stand Mixer

Some disadvantages that come with buying a stand mixer are as follows.

It is expensive compared to a hand mixer.
Stand mixers are usually big and heavy. Therefore, it will take up space in your kitchen counter.
You can't use other bowls with a stand mixer. You will have to use the bowl that comes with it.

Stand Mixer Attachments

A stand mixer comes with some basic attachments. It also lets you have the option do accessorize and add more attachments to it. Basic stand mixer attachments are as follows.

Dough hook, which you can use when you knead dough bread or other pastries that will require heavy mixing.
Balloon whisk that you can use for whisking egg whites or cream.
Mixer blade that will help you mix ingredients well from light to heavy-duty mixing.

Additional attachments that you can add to your stand mixer

Ice cream maker – Used to make ice cream.
Jug blender – This is typically used to make smoothies, juices, soup, and other puree food.
Splash guard – It is a plastic lid put on top of the mixing bowl. This will help make sure that the ingredients you add will not splash while the mixer is running.
Flexi beater – It looks like a rubber spatula that sweeps the side to help make sure that the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Food processor – It usually comes with a shredder, slicer, or grater.
Pasta maker – It will help you make and cut your pasta.
Juicer – Used for juicing vegetables and fruits.

Conclusion

Now you know what is a stand mixer. It can be very expensive, but if you are frequently baking bread or mixing heavy pastries, a stand mixer can be a good investment.