What are the techniques of using a high-speed blender to make smoothies?

1. Layered addition of ingredients
Container size determines order:
Large capacity high-speed blender (>20 ounces): First, add liquid (such as milk, coconut milk, water), yogurt or sweetener, then add dry goods (such as protein powder), green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits and vegetables in sequence, and finally put frozen ingredients.
Small capacity high-speed blender (≤ 20 ounces): In reverse order, put frozen ingredients, fresh fruits and vegetables, green leafy vegetables first, and finally add liquid.
Function: Ensure that the blade can smoothly handle hard or fibrous ingredients (such as ice cubes, kale), avoiding lagging.

2. Gradually adjust the mixing speed
Low speed start: Run at medium speed (about 1/3 power) for 30 seconds, initially crushing large pieces of food (such as bananas, frozen berries) to make them evenly sized.
Gradually increase speed: After the ingredients are preliminarily mixed, adjust to high speed and stir for 15-30 seconds until the texture is smooth.
Avoid cavitation: If started directly at high speed, the vortex generated by the blade rotation will mix with air, forming bubbles and affecting the texture.

3. Optimize ingredient selection and proportion
Freezing fruits instead of ice cubes: Using frozen bananas, berries, and other fruits instead of ice cubes can maintain the thickness of the smoothie and avoid diluting the taste after the ice melts.
Liquid to solid ratio: For every 1 cup of solid food (such as fruits and vegetables), at least 1/4 cup of liquid (such as milk, coconut milk, or water) should be mixed to ensure smooth mixing.
Preprocess hard ingredients: Remove the core and skin (such as apple core and pineapple peel), and chop large pieces of ingredients into small pieces to reduce blade burden.

4. Auxiliary tools and operational skills
Use a pestle to assist: During the mixing process, use a plastic pestle to press the ingredients towards the blade to improve mixing efficiency. Be careful not to directly touch the blades when the mixer is running.
Add liquid in batches: If the smoothie is too thick and difficult to stir, pause the mixer and add a small amount of liquid multiple times to adjust the texture.

5. Cleaning and maintenance
Timely cleaning: Immediately add warm water and detergent after use, stir at high speed for 30 seconds, thoroughly rinse and air dry to prevent residue from breeding bacteria or odors.
Avoid overfilling: The container capacity should not exceed 2/3 to prevent food spillage or blade jamming