A hand blender is an appliance that has a small rotating blade that is attached to a shaft. It is similar to a food processor, but it is less bulky and easier to store.
Hand blenders are great for making smooth purees, smoothies, and soups. They are also easy to clean. The blending arm can be detached, allowing you to throw the motorized part in the sink or dishwasher. You may also find that some models come with additional accessories.
Some hand mixers will include whisk attachments. These tools help aerate a mixture, resulting in heavier foam. Another option is a wire beater. Wire beaters are perfect for mixing butter, making vegetable purees, and creaming sugar.
The hand blender is often cheaper than a countertop blender. But you should not expect to be able to blend tough substances, like nuts, seeds, or meat. And keep in mind that hand blenders are typically quieter than traditional blenders.
In addition to a blending arm, you may find a whisk or chopping attachment. Whisk attachments are particularly useful for whipping cream. If you need to blend liquid batters, consider using a jar attachment with volume markings.
There are many types of hand blenders, and you'll want to be sure to choose one that is right for your needs. Depending on your tastes, you can purchase a model with multiple attachments. Alternatively, you can get one that only has the whisk attachment.
If you are looking to replace your countertop blender, a hand blender is a good choice. Unlike a conventional blender, it is easier to clean, is lightweight, and has variable speeds.