When was the last time you pulled out your blender to do something other than mix up a quick smoothie or shake? Most of us consider this kitchen appliance to be the go-to for thickening our liquids, but when you know how to use them, blenders can do so much more.
Similar to a food processor, blenders can chop and puree solid food. However, blenders are the more versatile and compact of the two. When it comes to options, a blender gives you plenty of choices without overcomplicating directions, as a food processor tends to do.
So, how can you use this kitchen appliance to build a delectable meal plan for this week? Check out these 7 creative ways to cook and mix with your blender.
1. Omelets and Scrambled Eggs
How light and fluffy your eggs are can make or break the meal. Blending the eggs instead of whisking them ensures you’ll get the softest eggs with the ideal texture to enhance the flavor. Throw some shredded cheese, chives, mushrooms, and diced ham in the blender, and you have a delicious scrambled egg meal. Or, blend the eggs and pour in an omelet maker, then add your toppings.
2. Ice Cream
Homemade ice cream doesn’t require a special machine. Just take some milk, sugar, vanilla, and crushed ice, as measured in this recipe. Combine and add your extra toppings for flavor. It’s the ideal way to control the ingredients, so you can use a blender to make ice cream that works for any dietary restriction or as a favorite dessert for a special occasion.
3. Flour
When you have food allergies or grain restrictions, you know how expensive buying special flour is at the grocery store. With a blender, you can make your own almond, oat, or coconut flour. Stockpile it in a tightly sealed container, or check with the laws in your state to resell your finished product to others!
4. Salsa
Any Mexican food lover will tell you that you can have chips without salsa! It’s the perfect complement to many other zesty, spicy foods, too. Grab your favorite vegetables, whether they’re ripe or just past their freshness, chop them up, and throw them in the blender. Add tomato paste to taste, and dig in with your chips or enchiladas!
5. Juice
Do you enjoy the refreshingly quenching feel of freshly squeezed orange juice or lemonade? You can mix your own pitcher of juice within minutes using fresh lemons or oranges, water, and sugar. Add enhancements, like strawberries or mint, and enjoy this crowd favorite on a hot day.
6. Nut Butter
If you’re trying to eat healthier or avoid peanut allergies, you need different kinds of nut or seed butter. But, like most nutritious options, this purchase can get expensive. Look for an easy-to-follow recipe using your preferred nut or seed. Read the recipe well in advance, as you may need to soak the ingredients overnight.
7. Cocktails
Having a party or just want to relax after a long day? Grab your favorite mixed drink ingredients and use your appliance to blend daiquiris, pina coladas, margaritas, and other cocktails to your preferred thickness.
From drinks to desserts, the blender can help you cook up a little something for every meal and palate.
