When I was informed I would get to try the KitchenAid Artisan Blender (KSB555), part of their Artisan Collection, I admit I squealed a little inside. Admittedly, yes, I don’t get out much, and am proud to say that I love to try a new kitchen appliance, especially one that has a reputation as the ‘best and most powerful blender’ in numerous reviews. With my favorite appliance being my KitchenAid Mixer (see bazaar May 2013), this was one I was happy to get my hands dirty for!
The claim that this is the most powerful blender on the market is not hard to believe, after all it has a 550 watt motor that purees many different types of foods quickly and evenly. The motor starts slowly so as to eliminate splatters, and then speeds up to adjust to the resistance of the food so that it can maintain a consistent speed without straining. With this and the sharp-patented stainless steel blades, food is quickly and thoroughly pureed to the consistency you want, before the heat from the motor starts heating up the food (a problem with some lower-end blenders). Even with the true test of a good blender – its ice-crushing ability—KitchenAid Artisan Blender pulverizes it effortlessly, a task many inferior blenders have trouble with.
The Artisan Blender KSB555 blender is also loaded with many smart features and design elements. Firstly, it is so simple to assemble; even your parents could do it on their first time. It has a die-cast metal base, which means it is very sturdy (no jumping around your kitchen bench!), and just like KitchenAid’s over 100 year-old business itself, it is built to last. It comes with a uniquely designed 1.5L glass jar, which makes filling and pouring a breeze, along with a well-sealed stay-put lid. They also provide a BPA free 0.75L culinary jar for smaller and single servings. There are 5 main speeds, including Stir, Chop, Mix, Puree and Liquify, and in addition it also features Crush Ice and Pulse modes, which will stagger the pulse for the most efficient crush or blend, which is perfect for those iced drinks. Also, for safety and reliability, a locking collar ensures that the blades don’t rotate until the pitcher is properly attached, helping those of us who are forgetful, rushed or otherwise uncoordinated, whilst on the job.
With my eagerness to try out this blender, I was able to whip up some delicious fruit smoothies, some amazing frozen mochaccinos, a few delicious protein shakes, a beautifully smooth pasta sauce and a hearty winter vegetable soup, ideal for the current Kuwait cold-spell. I even used a recipe I found online to make a fresh cucumber facial mask to have my very own homemade facial…proving this blender is for more than just the foodies in the family!
Perfect for us lazy and/or busy cooks, and typical of Kitchenaid’s quality and durability throughout its whole collection, is that this blender is super easy to clean and maintain. The one-piece construction of the jar means you don’t have to disassemble the base to clean it, as it is easy enough to quickly wipe the jar out under warm water, or put it in the dishwasher. Even the clean-touch control pad is superbly easy to wipe clean from those inevitable spillages.
Another important feature for us foodies, or even just the proud cooking-geeks amongst us, is its look in the Kitchen. As usual, KitchenAid does not disappoint here. It is sleek and modern looking, whilst staying true to the timeless vintage style of their entire Artisan collection. Therefore, it looks at home in a modern, country, or even retro kitchen. Also available in numerous colors and finishes, including a match for each of the KitchenAid Mixer colors, you can also mix and match to your heart’s desire.
The KitchenAid Blender and other KitchenAid products are available in Kuwait through Mabrook Hotel Supplies (showroom in Shuwaikh) or available online on deals.com.kw. You can contact them on 2482 8530 or for more information on their products visit them on Facebook: Kitchenaid.kuwait or follow them on Instagram @kitchenaid_kuw
