Here are a few kitchen tools I reach for constantly – those fabulous wooden spoons I’ve collected over the years, the citrus zester I swear by, my Instant Pot that cooks in a flash and my trusty immersion blender. If you don’t have one yet, allow me to change your mind. This magical little stick blender is one of my favorite kitchen workhorses, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it might just change the way you cook.
What Is an Immersion Blender?
An immersion blender (also known as a stick blender or hand blender) is basically a small, handheld electric blender that you stick right into your pot, bowl, or cup. Unlike a big countertop blender, you don’t need to transfer hot soup or sauce – just blend it right where it is. One less dish to clean? Yes, please.
Why Every Home Cook Needs One
I didn’t always have one. I thought they were just for fancy chefs on cooking shows. But the moment I got mine – thanks to a friend who gifted it to me after hearing me whine about trying to pour soup into a regular blender without burning myself – I was sold.
Here’s why I think you need one too:
- It’s perfect for soups. Puree your black bean or butternut squash soup right in the pot. No spills, no mess, no drama.
- It whips up sauces in seconds. I use it to emulsify homemade vinaigrettes, blend up my tomato sauce when I want it smooth, or get a silky béchamel.
- It makes the creamiest mashed potatoes. Seriously. Just go light on the blending so you don’t overwork the starch.
- It’s amazing for smoothies. Want a quick smoothie without dragging out the big blender? Drop your fruit and yogurt into a mason jar and blend away.
- Baby food? Easy peasy. Some parents use it to puree everything from peas to chicken and rice.
Tips for Using Your Immersion Blender
A few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Keep it submerged. Always make sure the blade end is fully under the surface of your soup or sauce, or you’ll get splattered. Ask me how I know. 😉
- Go slow and steady. Move the blender around gently to catch all the chunks without making a mess.
- Use a tall container. If you’re blending a small batch, use a tall jar or cup to keep things tidy.
My Favorite Immersion Blender
- I’ve tried a few, but my favorite immersion blender is my old Cuisinart Smart Stick. It has multiple speed settings and it has never let me down.
- I keep it in the drawer next to the stove because I use it that often. And it’s easy to clean!
Recipes That Shine With an Immersion Blender
- My Garam Masala Butternut Squash Soup (wait until you check out THAT one)
- My Homemade Tomato Sauce (a quick blend for a velvety finish)
- Smooth Potato Leek Soup
- My Split Pea Soup (before you add the bits of ham on top!)
- Quick and easy Strawberry Smoothies
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to simplify your cooking, cut down on dishes, and feel just a bit more like a pro in the kitchen, treat yourself to an immersion blender. It’s a small investment with big return. And once you start using it, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without one!
