Sometimes it feels as though everything around us is moving incredibly fast. To help us navigate this, we latch on to things we know are timeless and comforting. One of these things is undoubtedly a good cup of coffee. From slow-moving mornings to stressful days, a warm cup of coffee can help provide a hug in a mug every time.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to invest in a coffee machine that is sure to serve you for years to come. Living in a world with such ever-changing technologies can often make trying to source the right appliance feel like a mammoth task.

The days of the one-pot pour-over that quickly runs cold are long gone, and in its place are barista-style machines suitable for every size kitchen. Complete with coffee bean grinders and steam wands, these machines take the difficulty out of grinding beans and perfecting latte milk by doing it for you.

Of course, the Moka pot and French press still achieve great-tasting coffee, but if you’re interested in dipping your toe in the newest coffee-making technologies, then read on as we explore the capabilities of the most modern machines.

Before investing in a coffee machine or home-brewing appliance, it is worth evaluating what you want from it:

• Are you a coffee enthusiast looking to perfect your espresso?
• Do you want a machine that grinds your beans?
• Or would you prefer a simple filter brew that can make multiple cups in one go?
• Do you love milk-based coffee such as a latte or cappuccino and want to recreate this at home?

The way you enjoy your coffee will depend on the kind of machine you should opt for.

We stock a wide range of best-selling coffee machines with a variety of capabilities and options. Through our recommendations, we hope to assist you in making a decision with ease. Below, we explore the different types of machines and the greatness they are capable of.

Pour-Over Filter Machines

These machines are great for those that love the simple things in life such as a filtered cup of coffee. The Cuisinart DGB900BCU Grind and Brew Plus Coffee Maker takes the filter coffee you know and love but brings a whole new level of ease and freshness to coffee-making.

This Cuisinart appliance also includes a coffee grinder helping you to produce the best cups of coffee every time. Keeping your beans fresh and grinding them just before use helps to release the best taste, aroma, and crema. 

Gone are the days of filter coffee going cold or standing lukewarm for hours. This appliance breathes a new life into pour-over coffee, making it a great option for those that enjoy a morning cup without the bells and whistles.

We also stock the Smeg DCF02WHUK Drip Filter Coffee Machine, which is perfect for any retro kitchen or vintage-appliance fan in your life. It makes up to 10 cups of coffee at once and allows you to select between a light or intense aroma.

With the ability to keep your coffee warm long after it’s brewed, this Smeg coffee machine not only looks excellent but acts that way too!

Espresso Machines

A classic for a reason, these machines can help you to skip the line at your local coffee shop by recreating your favourite drink at home.

All of the espresso machines we stock at Gerald Giles come complete with a steam wand. Steam wands are a versatile piece of equipment that can help you to produce both frothed and steamed milk.

This means you can widen your range of coffee knowledge by creating a multitude of different drinks for when guests drop by! Espresso machines, for many, are considered the whole package. They produce excellent quality coffee and the right type of milk for any coffee-based drink of your choice.

From Smeg to Kitchenaid models, we stock a variety of popular espresso machines meaning you’re spoiled for choice. Many are currently on sale, so if you’re looking for a sign to invest in the machine of your dreams, this is it!

Espresso machines make a great addition to any kitchen and can help you save money in the long run, especially if you think it’s time to break your daily coffee-shop-visit habit.

Smart Machines

The advancement of modern technology is rapid and amazing. It also seems that no device has been left untouched. Smart coffee machines help to make kitchen appliances accessible to all.

Complete with WiFi Conn@ct, the Miele CM6360 Countertop Coffee Machine with WiFi & Milk Container really is top of the range yet simple to use. The additional WiFi button helps you to communicate with your machine effortlessly.

This is great for those constantly on-the-go but who value their appliances. Through your smartphone you can easily programme routine maintenance and reach out directly for Miele support should you have any issues.

This machine seems like the future of coffee-making and is essentially like having a mini coffee shop set up on your kitchen counter; who wouldn’t want that?

We also stock the Miele CM5510-S Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine which makes not one, but two cups of coffee at a time. Perfect for families or couples on the move, all you have to do is add your beans.

The Future of At-Home Coffee-Making

When it comes to selecting the right coffee machine, it can be tricky to know where to begin. However, by considering our advice and recognising what you need from a device, you shouldn’t struggle to make a decision.

In recent years, the development of coffee machines has been truly astounding and it can be hard not to follow the crowd. On the market today, there are various types of machines that come complete with different capabilities suitable for every kind of coffee drinker so it is important to invest in a machine that will benefit you the most.

Read our blog “How to Choose the Right Coffee Machine” for more useful information on which products may best suit your needs!

To make your decision that little bit easier, why not visit us in-store? We are located on Ber Street, Norwich. Alternatively, email us at sales@geraldgiles.co.uk or contact us on 01603 599599.

For many of us, a steaming cup of coffee is the best way to start the day. From cortado to macchiato, it’s never been easier to recreate barista-style coffee straight from your kitchen counter. With hundreds of new coffee machines hitting the market over the last few years, what better way is there to practise your latte art than from the comfort of your own home?

However, choosing the right machine can be a difficult decision. Coffee machines are an investment that requires you to know exactly what you want. Are you looking for a machine that grinds your beans for you? Or would you prefer one that froths large quantities of milk? Perhaps you don’t need one with all the bells and whistles and simply want a filter device that brews coffee all morning?

Whatever you need, we’ve got it here. We like to think we’re a team of coffee aficionados and are here to help you find the right machine for your kitchen. With a range of appliances from brands such as Smeg, Cuisinart, and Miele you’re sure to find exactly what you need.

Below, we discuss in further detail the different makes and models available right now and how they can help you achieve the best finish and flavour every time.

Starting strong is the Smeg ECF01BLUK Espresso Coffee Machine 50’s Retro Style. This magnificent machine comes in a variety of different colours including Black, Pastel Green, Cream, Pink, Red, and Pastel Blue. Producing perfect espresso each time the Smeg ECF01 also comes complete with a milk frothing wand helping you to achieve the smoothest finish on your milk.

If you’re someone that loves matching kitchenware then you’ll be thrilled to discover the Smeg ECF01 boasts the same iconic, vintage style and colour as the rest of the Smeg kitchenware range from kettles to toasters. Is there anything more pleasing than a matching kitchen set?

By using a bar pressure of 15mm, this little machine is compatible with ground coffee beans and paper pods. Inclusive of a clever Thermoblock system, the Smeg ECF01 starts up very quickly and has fast heating features meaning you can make your coffee faster than it would take you to order at your local coffee shop.

The Smeg ECF01 couldn’t be easier to use. If you’re looking for a simple yet efficient device, then this coffee machine is for you. With 3 buttons to adjust settings, select single or double espresso, and activate steam, the Smeg ECF01 is one of the most user-friendly machines out there.

In addition to this, the machine also includes a stainless-steel filter holder and cup storage to keep your cups lovely and warm whilst your coffee is brewing. If you would prefer to use larger cups with your machine, just simply remove the cup tray and voila!

At the height of coffee luxury is the Miele CM6160 Countertop Coffee Machine with WiFi in Obsidian Black. Giving any top coffee shop a run for their money, this small yet versatile machine boasts an AromaticSystem perfecting the intensity of espresso with the touch of a button. It can also produce not one coffee but two, at the same time.

With the addition of WiFi Conn@ct, all you have to do is download the Miele app to your smartphone to gain instant access and easy communication with your device. Here you can gain complete control and monitor your machine.

Let the Miele CM6160 do the hard work for you with maintenance programmes, convenient cleaning parts, and grinding abilities suitable for coffee beans from Costa Rica to Brazil and Vietnam.

This compact countertop machine makes creating speciality coffees an absolute breeze. Designed with the customer at heart, the Miele CM6160 was produced to allow you to enjoy coffee like a professional, smelling, feeling, hearing, and tasting the perfect espresso.

For a helping hand in the kitchen, why not consider the Cuisinart DGB900BCU Grind and Brew Plus Coffee Maker. Producing up to 12 cups of filter coffee, this device automatically grinds your beans before brewing, allowing you to sit back and enjoy your morning without having to grind in a separate machine.

All you have to do is add your beans and select one of three settings, strong, medium or mild. The machine also works fabulously with pre-ground coffee. The Cuisinart DGB900BCU is fully programmable meaning you can have your coffee ready and waiting for you in the morning or for guests after a meal.

The machine also keeps your coffee at the perfect temperature due to its double-walled carafe. Gone are the days of replacing soggy, used filters from your coffee machine. With the Cuisinart DGB900BCU, there are no paper filters. A professional gold-tone filter is included, making the machine as sustainable as possible. Also included are the bean hopper and carafe which are, of course, dishwasher safe.

To make the smoothest brew possible, this coffee machine uses charcoal water filters. Taking any impurities from the water, the filter also helps to avoid limescale build-up. Two additional charcoal water filters are included with your Cuisinart DGB900BCU to help you make the most of your new appliance.

Before committing to a coffee machine, it is important to ask yourself what you want from it. Do you need a large water tank so that you can make more espresso? Would you prefer a more sustainable machine? Whatever your requirements for the perfect coffee machine, we can meet them.

Coffee machines have rapidly developed since the 20^th century and now include a whole host of added perks to make your life easier and your coffee more enjoyable.

We stock a wide range of coffee machines to suit any budget. If you would like to view them and chat to a member of our team, come visit us in-store at 16-20 Ber Street, Norwich.

Alternatively, call us on 01603 621772 or email us at sales@geraldgiles.co.uk. We’re also active on social media so feel free to talk to us there too – Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Whilst many of us wish we had the time and skill to perfect culinary delights, busy work and family schedules can take over, leaving us longing for convenience. At Gerald Giles, we value the importance of cooking and how it can stimulate your senses, bring people together, and increase feelings of wellbeing.

If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchenware so that you can cook delicious but quick meals, look no further. We can help you make the most of your kitchen with our range of top appliances, no matter the size. Our expert team can help, and in this article, we discuss the differences between arguably, the most popular kitchen appliances, the air fryer and the multi-cooker.

Cooking for convenience arose in Britain during the 1970s with the introduction of the microwave. This gadget was able to prepare family meals in minutes. However, these meals were frozen, pre-packaged, and often lacked nutrients. Microwave meals were also only accessible to those who had domestic freezers and the space to store them.

In the 1980s, when microwaves and freezers were more popular, the demand for convenience food continued due to a shift in family life. Many women were now working 9 to 5 jobs meaning they didn’t have time to manage work, children, and coming home to prepare full meals each day. You could have a steaming plate of food in front of you in just three minutes.

We’ve come a long way since the 1980s and now have a luxury range of kitchen appliances available to take the hardship out of cooking whilst still allowing you to create delicious meals for all the family.

So, what’s an air fryer and why are they so popular?

Although ‘fry’ is in the name, the air fryer does not fry food. Due to its small size, the air fryer is a perfectly portable appliance suitable for kitchens of all sizes. Imagine you were to take your kitchen oven and shrink it in size. Not only would you be a magician, but you would have an air fryer. If that’s not possible, you can buy one from us.

The air fryer doesn’t bake food either. Essentially, it mimics the effects of deep-frying without using vast amounts of oil. Letting you enjoy the food you love but in a healthier way.

Air fryers are versatile and can cook anything from frozen food to hand-cut French fries and homemade cookies. Suitable for cooking sweet and savoury foods, it’s no wonder the air fryer has seen a considerable surge in popularity in recent years.

The air fryer can also cook:

• Hard-boiled eggs
• Spring rolls
• Fried fish and chicken
• Grilled vegetables
• Baked potatoes
• Frozen food
• Cakes
• Muffins
• Chips and crisps

The air fryer works simply by using a heating mechanism and a fan. Once you’ve put your food in the appliance, hot air suddenly runs around the food. This air circulation helps create an even finish mimicking the effects of the food being fried with oil, although it has not.

Most foods are cooked at around 25-35 minutes, making the air fryer the perfect accompaniment to any kitchen. With some air fryers, you may have to turn your food over halfway through its cooking time to ensure it crisps evenly.

After your food has finished air frying, it is important to thoroughly clean the appliance to avoid any leftover pieces from burning the next time you use it.

Air fryers have seen such a huge increase in popularity because they’re considered the healthiest appliance to cook food, but is this true?

The unavoidable fact is that air fryers use significantly less oil than deep fryers. French fries cooked in an air fryer are expected to contain around 75% less fat than their deep-fried counterparts. This means they are certainly a healthier option than other appliances available that rely on using lots of oil.

To summarise, air fryers are an excellent way to whip up a variety of foods in a short space of time. Due to their compact nature, they keep their heat in when raised to a high temperature, unlike standard kitchen ovens that heat the entire kitchen. In the summer, this can make cooking feel like a huge chore.

If you’re looking for a healthier and quicker way to enjoy the foods you love, investing in an air fryer will undoubtedly be in your best interest!

What’s a multi-cooker?

Multi-cookers are often considered the future of cooking. This is because they contain multiple cooking programmes under one lid, including a pressure cooker. Choosing to purchase a multi-cooker gives you a reason to finally clean out your cupboards of old appliances that you don’t use anymore.

The multi-cooker can do it all, from perfecting soup and jams to casseroles and briskets. Suitable for any fussy eater, multi-cookers do the hard work for you. All you have to do is set the function! Most multi-cookers include around 9 to 15 functions meaning you can fry, sauté, simmer, and bake easily.

The multi-cooker can also cook:

• Stew
• Chilli
• Curry
• Rice
• Steamed vegetables
• Cooked chicken and meats
• Pasta
• Porridge
• Roast dinners
• Bread
• Dumplings
• Cookies
• Cakes

With a multi-cooker, it’s never been easier to hone your culinary skills. For a sure way to impress your guests, a multi-cooker is the way to go! Most multi-cookers even have a yoghurt-making function. What a perfect way to start the day.

Multi-cookers are so popular due to their time-saving abilities. With their pressure-cooking setting, you can cut your cooking time in half, leaving you with time to focus on the things that really matter. They’re also great space savers and can force you to donate any old appliances that you no longer need.

Perfect for big families, multi-cookers can serve up to 6 portions in one go. Gone are the days of multiple pans and dishes building up on your countertop. Most multi-cooker parts are also dishwasher safe making cleaning a breeze too.

Whilst they may look quite similar, there are a few distinguishable differences between the air fryer and multi-cooker but don’t worry because we’re here to explain.

Firstly, air fryers tend to cost less than multi-cookers. This is because multi-cookers contain more cooking functions and are a tad more complex, not to mention versatile. However, because air fryers only have one function, they cook food quicker than a multi-cooker, which needs to build pressure before cooking begins.

It also depends on what you want to use your new kitchen appliance for. Are you wanting to expand your culinary repertoire and cater for a bigger group of people? If so, a multi-cooker will be the perfect choice. Multi-cookers are also considered the more energy-efficient appliance due to their low wattage and heat-retaining abilities. These appliances can also be used as air fryers, but air fryers cannot be used as multi-cookers.

However, if you’re looking for a new, healthier way to cook food in smaller batches then the air fryer is for you. It is important to remember that air fryers were designed for one thing, to make foods crispy, and multi-cookers were designed for more. However, our Ninja range of air-fryers now include roast and dehydrate functions making cooking more enjoyable for all.

Air fryers are the more compact out of the two appliances meaning they can be used in the smallest of kitchens, unlike multi-cookers which are a little bit bigger due to their many functions.

Consider an air fryer or multi-cooker if you feel that your busy schedule and cramped kitchen are putting you off cooking. No matter which appliance you choose, you’re sure to save time, money, and space and, by doing so, will be able to glide into the modern convenience cooking revolution.

Our favourite multi-cookers and air fryers are listed below. With many on offer and inclusive of free delivery, there’s never been a better time to treat yourself (and your kitchen).

• Ninja OL750UK Foodi MAX 15-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker with Smart Cook System 7.5-Litre

This amazing device includes 15 different cooking functions and can cook for up to 6 people. It also includes a Combi-Steam Mode meaning you can steam and crisp at the same time and a Digital Cooking Probe helping you keep an eye on the temperature of your food as it cooks.

Read our blog “Why the Ninja Foodi MAX 15-in-1 multi-cooker will change the way you cook forever!” for even more information.

• Ninja Foodi Dual Zone 7.6L Air Fryer AF300UK

Take an air fryer and double it. What do you get? The Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer. This amazing device takes air frying to the next level including two separate zones so you can cook food separately.

We understand that investing in a new kitchen appliance can be daunting, however, it is an investment sure to pay off. If you’ve still got questions such as ‘which appliance will I use more?’ or ‘which appliance is easier to use?’ get in touch with us today!

Email us at sales@geraldgiles.co.uk or contact us on 01603 599599. We aim to respond as soon as possible and can’t wait to hear from you.

Updating your kitchen appliances doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Instead of opting for your usual appliances, why not try something new? Cooking on hobs has changed a lot in the past few years and with high-quality precision technology, you can now create captivating culinary delights with ease.

The general rule is once you’ve turned to induction, you won’t go back to gas. Induction hobs bring a whole host of benefits, the number one being that they are more energy-efficient. This is definitely something to consider at a time when our energy prices are rapidly rising!

It is said that induction hobs offer up to 70% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional cooking methods such as gas. Induction hobs are also great for families and offer a much safer way of cooking. With no flames or ignition, burns and fumes are a thing of the past. Spillages are also super simple to clean away on induction hobs, so you don’t have to worry about burning the ring!

With no risk of accidentally ‘leaving a pan on’ most induction hobs operate on new technology such as Pan Detection Systems, recognising when a pan is in place. Induction hobs also offer a smoother dining experience, both heating up and cooling down pans a lot quicker than a gas hob.

This element of safety cannot be found in gas hobs, with many people switching to induction for this exact reason. Induction hobs don’t have a point of ignition like gas hobs do, this means that there is very little risk of pans catching fire compared to gas hobs that produce an open flame.

Induction hobs are also considered a space saver, especially for those with smaller living spaces. If you think you would miss a gas hob for cooking and chargrilling vegetables, why not consider an outdoor cooking area such as a barbecue or oven?

The main downsides to induction hobs are often found by those who professionally cook. Whilst induction hobs are very easy to control, you need to use pans that have magnetic properties in order for them to work. This means that traditional copper pans, for example, are not suitable.

However, induction hobs carry a wide variety of benefits that beat any downsides. And if you were still determined to use your French copper pans, why not consider buying a gas burner to use either indoors or outdoors? This way you can have your crepes and eat them too!

For a smarter kitchen with fewer resources, consider switching to induction cooking. At Gerald Giles, we supply a variety of induction hobs to suit every kind of home. Below we have ranked our 3 best-selling induction hobs with detailed explanations of their benefits and technologies.

AEG IKB64301XB

Coming in third place is the AEG IKB64301XB Induction Hob. This built-in design electric induction hob will seamlessly blend into any home allowing you to have dinner on the table in no time.

With four induction zones, cooking couldn’t get any easier. This hob also includes an extra special PowerBoost button that boils water in under 90 seconds. This is because induction hobs heat the base of the pan and conserve energy, instead of heating the hob’s surface.

For enhanced safety, pan detection technology will ensure only the zones you want to work with get hot so if you do touch another area of the hob you won’t be faced with a nasty burn. You can also choose to set a control lock that prevents any changes to your settings.

As soon as you set your pan down on the hob and turn it on, its ActiveTouch technology will tell you which zone is best to use. Red lights indicate the temperature of the pan whilst your other options remain white. The hob also features LED backlights that indicate where your cookware is positioned. This makes the IKB64301XB an accessible piece of kitchenware suitable for a wide variety of homes.

With its cool surface, the AEG IKB64301XB hob will allow you to clean as you cook, taking kitchen preparation to the next level. It also includes a controlled cooker hood allowing you to focus entirely on your next tasty treat without worrying about turning your extractor fan on or off. With its adjustable timer, the AEG IKB64301XB will automatically remind you of how long you’ve been cooking!

Neff T48FD23X2 800mm Induction Hob

Coming in at a not-be-snubbed-at second place is the Neff T48FD23X2 800mm Induction Hob. This spectacular, stylish hob also includes a free induction pan set, making life just that little bit easier. We like to think that the T48FD23X2 will revolutionise the way you cook, this is because its built-in design and efficient energy-saving abilities have the power to transform any kitchen into a place of luxury – not to mention the envy of your friends and family!

Through heat, the hob creates a magnetic field between the base of a pan and the induction hob. This means that no energy is wasted and your pan heats in a fraction of the time a gas hob would. This is a much more efficient method of cooking compared to gas hobs and again, is a lot safer, especially if you’ve got little ones running around the house!

The overall design of this hob is sleek and sophisticated. Its black, glossy finish makes it suitable for a variety of kitchen designs, blending in without any raised rings on display.

The T48FD23X2 includes 17 stage power settings ensuring whatever you prepare is always cooked to perfection. From frying to boiling, the T48FD23X2 could be just what you and your kitchen need. As well as including a boost option that allows the hob to quickly jump into action, this clever design also includes a CombiZone; an area on the side of the model that can be used either as two cooking zones or one, if you were to own a large pan.

Gone are the days of worrying about knocking pans over or leaving the gas on, the Neff T48FD23X2 is the perfect addition to any home in need of an added touch of class.

The Neff T48FD23X2 is pricier than our earlier pick but it’s packed with clever features and will be an important part of your kitchen for decades to come, so well worth it we say.

Miele KM7464FR 62cm Wide Induction Hob 4 Zone With 1 PowerFlex Zone

And in first place; the Miele KM7464FR. This sleek and efficient glass hob includes a stainless-steel rim and easy-to-use touch controls. With the addition of touch control, you can simply select the best zone and power level before adding a lock and timer. This ensures no nasty accidents as well as perfectly cooked food every time!

Miele also has a mobile app to help you get the most out of your hob. For extra convenience, you can change the cooking parameters and even stop whichever programme is running on your phone. This level of service is undoubtedly unmatched by a gas hob. The app also includes ravishing recipes to help you get the most out of your Miele product.

We’ve ranked this hob as our best because it offers flexibility, safety, and quality. It includes a TwinBooster power output that allows you to combine the output of two cooking zones into one, ultimately meaning you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. By combining two zones into a larger zone, your hob becomes a versatile piece of kitchenware. So much so that you can even use pasta and casserole dishes on the hob without any problem.

The Auto Heat Up function automatically reduces the heat once your food is cooking to eliminate the risk of burning. Most users find this an excellent feature as they often forget to turn down the heat on their induction hobs. The KM7464FR also boasts a warming function for each zone that keeps your food at the optimum temperature for warmth without burning.

Like most induction hob manufacturers, safety is of utmost importance at Miele. Along with pan recognition, the KM7464FR also includes a safety lock that prevents any changes to temperature or zone use. This is a great feature if you have children and helps to reduce any burns or kitchen accidents.

With its amazing Stop&Go Memory Function, all cooking zones can be reduced down to power level one just by touching a button. This means that the hob can be left unattended, if need be, without food burning or spilling. After a short time, you can return to the hob and press the button for all zones to return to their previous power levels.

The Miele KM7464FR is a great investment for your kitchen. Its lustrous appearance and integrated design make it the perfect addition and space-saver for any home. There are many reasons why we rank the Miele KM7464FR as our best induction hob, why not order today to find out for yourself?

Still can’t decide which hob to choose? Why not come and visit us at Gerald Giles, Ber Street, Norwich. Here, you can view live demonstrations and decide for yourself. Plus, you’ll meet some friendly faces who are more than happy to share some words of wisdom when it comes to choosing the right hob for your home.

KitchenAid blenders are a must-have addition to stylish kitchens belonging to keen cooks – as well those looking to speed up and simplify food preparation.

Known for their quality and sleek designs, anyone who’s ever cooked anything knows that a KitchenAid blender makes things easier, cleaner and far more fuss-free than ever before.

Far from being style over substance, the KitchenAid blender can perform a multitude of tasks, taking your culinary creations from ‘good cook’ to ‘top chef’. Here are a few things that you should know about using your KitchenAid blender:

1.     Your Smoothies Will Be Smooth

Okay, so lots of blenders can handle the simple task of making a smoothie, but not all smoothies are created equal! Many standard kitchen blenders can’t handle rough or fibrous materials and your drink ends up being a ‘not-so-smoothie’, even after minutes of blending. The combination of a powerful motor and ultra-sharp blending blades means that your KitchenAid blender smoothies will be exactly that – as smooth as silk.

2.     Your Cocktails Will Be Next Level

Ever tried to make an ice-based cocktail in your standard blender? If you have, then perhaps your ice came out very unevenly blended. If you were really unlucky, your blender may have even started to smell of burning, under the pressure of trying to deal with a solid material such as ice. The KitchenAid blender actually offers a dedicated crushed ice setting which will give you perfectly consistent ice for a marvellous margarita every time!

3.     Soups Are Super Easy with KitchenAid Blenders

If you’re a fan of homemade soups and prefer them to be smooth rather than chunky, you’re probably aware that this can be a bit of a process. First, you need to cook your vegetables, then you have to wait for them to cool before you can blend everything, so that you don’t get a dangerous build-up of steam in your blender. Second, you have to reheat it all again in a saucepan. The KitchenAid ProLine blender does all of that for you. It has a thermal jug and can turn your raw vegetables into hot soup, all in one device.

4.     You’ll Never Buy Jars of Sauce Again

From a puttanesca to pesto, hollandaise to mayonnaise, the KitchenAid blender will make better sauces than a mass manufacturer ever could. It’s even powerful enough to blend nuts into a smooth paste, allowing you to make your own nut butters from peanuts, almonds, walnuts, cashews and whatever other type of nut you’d like to be able to spread on toast. Don’t just take our word for it, @taste_cooking spoke to KitchenAid evangelist and Michelin star chef, Missy Robbins. She swears by using KitchenAid, not only for her sauces, but to make pasta for her diners using one of their optional accessories.

5.     The Same Goes for Baby Food

Sick of buying overpriced jars and sachets of indeterminable mush for your babies and toddlers? The KitchenAid blender is a great investment if you’re weaning your child onto solids as you can make fresh, organic baby food using your own ingredients. You’ll be safe in the knowledge that you know exactly what your child is eating and that you’re giving them the best possible nutrition. The KitchenAid blender is powerful enough to make food which is completely smooth for those early days when lumps just won’t do, but many models can also chop and slice food with more texture for when you’re feeding a toddler and trying to introduce new foods.

6.     KitchenAid Blenders Are Easy to Clean

If you’ve used a generic blender in the past, you may have had a hard time keeping the individual parts clean and hygienic. If blenders aren’t properly sanitised, they can be prone to developing mould and this is really not something you want in your food. With KitchenAid blenders, many models have a self-clean setting and the jugs are also dishwasher proof. This means that you can feel secure about the cleanliness of your appliance and know that with proper maintenance, it will last for years.

7.     They’re Great for Getting Vegetables into Your Kids

As any seasoned parent knows, the majority of kids take the first bite of a meal with their eyes. This means that many vegetable-averse children will pick out even the tiniest lump of unidentified vegetable before they have a chance to eat it. With a KitchenAid blender, you can add hidden vegetables into a number of sauces for pasta, cottage pies and other dishes. You’ll be assured your children are getting their five a day and avoiding the usual added salt and sugar that comes in premade sauce.

8.     They Make Any Kitchen Look Great

As we mentioned above, KitchenAid blenders are super stylish. They come in a number of different sizes and colours and can complement any decor. Whether you want a sleek chrome blender to match your professional style or a funky colour for a vibrant look, KitchenAid blenders have a design for you. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, KitchenAid blenders come with a range of functions and fit a number of different budgets.

Take a look around our site for the best blender you’ll ever own. The accessories make great gifts for family and friends – if we’ve convinced you that the KichenAid blender will make cooking easier and be a savvy way of getting your five a day, then put it on your list – or better still buy now and make light work of cooking this year!

KitchenAid is one of the oldest and most trusted brands making kitchen appliances today.

Their top-quality appliances are favourites among professionals and home chefs alike. KitchenAid stand mixers have even appeared on the Great British Bake-Off! However, these iconic appliances are not just for baking. In this article, we take a look at KitchenAid’s huge range of extra attachments, which can help you with everything from juicing fruit to making your own ice cream.

KitchenAid Mixers: Perfect for Baking

With its solid, professional-grade construction, powerful motor and classic design, the 5KSM175PSBER Artisan Stand Mixer is an indispensable tool for home chefs. Made of stainless steel and available in a range of colours, from Almond Cream to Dried Rose to Pistachio, it makes a beautiful addition to any kitchen.

KitchenAid’s range of stand mixers are perfectly designed to make batters and doughs. One of the best additional attachments for baking is the 5KSMSFTA Sifter & Scale, which uses the mixer’s motor to sift your flour or cocoa powder.

Scrumptious Sauces

For example, KitchenAid mixers can make juices, sauces, coulis and jams thanks to the KSM1JA Slow Juicer and Sauce Attachment. Taste of Home is full of praise for this multifunctional attachment: ‘If your morning routine involves a fresh-pressed glass of green juice, it’s worth adding this attachment to your kitchen. Designed to expertly create juices, sauces and jams, this add-on gadget can replace other bulky, stand-alone appliances. Plus, choose between three different pulp screens to ensure your final product has the perfect texture.’ Whatever’s on the menu, you simply feed your fruit, herbs or leafy veg into the tube at the top and watch your juice, jam or sauce come out at the bottom.

KitchenAid also makes the 5JE Citrus Juicer Attachment. Powered by the mixer’s motor, it speedily extracts juice and filters out pips and seeds. Foodal’s reviewer loves this simple but effective attachment: ‘With this citrus juicer, I actually get the full amount my recipes say I should from juicing any citrus fruit! It attaches to the power hub at the front of the machine, and will work for any model of KitchenAid. My favourite part: it’s totally dishwasher safe!’

Turn Your Kitchen into an Ice Cream Parlour

If you’re feeling a little more ambitious and want to get the most out of your KitchenAid mixer, why not try the 5KICA0WH Ice Cream Maker Attachment? The Spruce Eats loves how this easy-to-use attachment ‘allows you to customize the flavours to fit your family’s taste.’

KitchenAid Mixers: Dozens of Functions in One Appliance

KitchenAid mixers are far from single-function appliances. Equipped with the right attachments, a KitchenAid mixer can be your sous-chef as you mix, bake, juice, pulp, and create delicious ice creams and sauces. If you want to take your cooking to the next level and get the most out of this marvellous mixer, Gerald Giles stocks a wide range of KitchenAid attachments that you can browse here.