Unboxing
Unboxing your kitchenaid food processor mini is the first step to getting the most of out of this kitchen appliance. It is important to review the instruction manual and familiarize yourself with the product before you begin using it.
The first step is to unbox the processor and inspect all the components, so let’s get started!
- Remove the processor from the box.
- Inspect all the components.
- Refer to the instruction manual.
Open the box
When unboxing your new Kitchenaid food processor mini, the first thing that you need to do is remove the packaging and all components from the box. Carefully open the box and examine it for any appearance of damage prior to use. All components should have their own labeled packaging with instructions on how to use them properly.
Next, remove all parts and accessories from their respective packages. Take care not to misplace any items, as these are essential parts of your Kitchenaid mini food processor. Once you have removed all of these components from their package, they will be ready to be assembled according to the directions in the included instruction manual.
Remove all parts
Before you use your new KitchenAid food processor mini, make sure all the parts are accounted for and in good condition. Carefully unbox the food processor, then set aside the following items:
- Base of unit with blade attachment
- Slicer/Shredder attachment
- Two work bowls (1.5 cup and 3 cup)
- Pusher/Spatula
- Dough & mixing blade
- Booklet with accessories list, instructions, recipes and tips to get the most out of your product
Carefully check each part for any signs of damage or missing pieces. Once all parts have been accounted for and checked for damage, you’re ready to start using your KitchenAid Food Processor Mini.
Preparing the Food Processor
To properly use your Kitchenaid food processor mini, it is important to first properly prepare it. This includes making sure that all components are assembled correctly and that the food processor is plugged into a working electrical outlet. You should also read the instructions that come with the food processor to make sure that you are following all safety instructions.
Once you have set everything up, you are ready to start using your food processor.
Place the base on a flat surface
Before you begin, ensure that the counter on which you plan to place your KitchenAid Mini Food Processor is clean and clear of all clutter. The base should be placed on a flat, stable surface.
Take the food processor bowl out of the box, and fit it onto the power hub of the food processor. Make sure to firmly lock it by pushing down on either side of the bowl until it clicks into place. Then attach the lid onto this bowl securely.
Unhook each accessory from their casings in order to insert them into their slots at the bottom of your food processor. To stack blades, line up each blade (plastic or stainless steel) and gently press them together until they click together firmly. Push down and pull up on pieces to make sure that they are secured properly and will not move during operation.
Attach the bowl and blade
Before you use your food processor, it’s important to make sure you’re working with the correct bowl and blade. Most kitchenaid processors have a 3.5 cup bowl, but some models may have slightly different measurements – always check your user guide to confirm.
Place the stainless steel chopping blade into the center of the bowl and attach the handle. Lift up gently and twist to secure, making sure it doesn’t move or wobble when shaking slightly. Double-check that no part of the blade is loose before continuing.
Once secure, place the attached bowl on top of your food processor base unit. Secure by lining up the locking tabs and pushing in until you hear a click – this confirms that your bowl is connected securely to the unit itself.
Secure the lid
Before using a food processor or any kitchen appliance, ensure that the lid to the food processor is securely in place. To properly secure the lid, make sure to insert the locking lever into its slot, just above the lid handle. Flip it up 90 degrees to lock. When you are finished using the food processor, always remember to unlock this device before attempting to remove the lid. Failing to do so will result in difficulty removing it from the appliance.
It’s important that all covers and lids remain locked in place during use for safety purposes and preventing any stray ingredients from becoming airborne or going haywire unexpectedly.
Using the Food Processor
Using a food processor is an easy and convenient way to chop, mix, and puree your food. With the KitchenAid food processor mini, you can quickly and easily prepare your meals without sacrificing time and effort.
Here, you’ll learn how to use the food processor so you can make the most out of it.
Select the speed and pulse settings
The Food Processor includes a variable speed and pulse setting to help you precisely control the consistency of what you’re processing. The variable speed and pulse settings will vary depending on your specific Kitchenaid food processor model. Before making any adjustments, it is important to remember that the power should be off before you make any changes.
When selecting your speed, it is essential that you use the correct setting for what you’re attempting to do. For example, a higher speed may work better for chopping or mincing certain ingredients whereas a lower speed is better for mixing doughs or combining ingredients.
If you need even more precise control, KitchenAid also offers an optional High/Low Pulse feature, which combines short pulses of pulses with longer pulses to create finer textures. This feature is perfect for tasks like adding nuts or thickening sauces and dressings as it gives greater precision than just selecting speeds alone. Always make sure that the lid of the food processor bowl is securely in place before turning on the power switch. The lid should fit snugly without any gaps to ensure that there are no leaks while food processing!
Add ingredients to the bowl
Adding ingredients to the bowl of a kitchenaid food processor mini can be a great way to make a variety of recipes from creamy sauces to savory soups and baby purees. Getting the most out of your kitchenaid food processor mini starts by understanding the differences between different types of bowls and blades, and having a general knowledge of how they work together.
Lightweight materials such as rice, fruit, vegetables, and nuts should be added through the small feed chute located near the center of the lid. When you are adding these items, make sure that you do not overfill them since this could cause your food processor mini to become unbalanced and lead to an inefficient cutting operation.
Heavier items such as potatoes, raw beef or chicken should be added through the wide feed chute with pusher plate attachment. This will help ensure that your ingredients are cut into consistent pieces for even cooking when it comes time for preparation.
For both types of ingredients, add in one or two cups at a time so that you can check consistency and results before adding additional amounts. Depending on what type of recipe you are making, you may also want adjust speed or pulse intervals resulting in different sized chunks or consistently puréed items. Before long, you’ll have mastered using your kitchen aid food processor mini for all sorts ingredients!
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and regular maintenance of your KitchenAid food processor mini is essential in order to ensure its durability and performance. This section will go through the steps necessary to properly clean and maintain your food processor mini. Regular care and attention is key to ensuring that the kitchen appliance works efficiently and continues to look good.
Disassemble the parts
Before cleaning and maintenance, it is important to first disassemble the parts of your KitchenAid food processor mini. This entails releasing the handle, unlocking and removing the blade or disc assembly, unscrewing and removing the lid, emptying out any ingredients that may be inside, as well as unplugging the machine from the power source.
By keeping all components available for cleaning, you greatly reduce maintenance time and also ensure that even awkward areas are reached for more thorough cleaning.
Clean the parts with a damp cloth
When you are finished using your KitchenAid Food Processor Mini, it’s important to properly clean the parts and accessories. First, make sure the motor base is unplugged and that the unit has cooled down. Next, disassemble all removable pieces from the base. Any discs can be removed and washed in a sink filled with warm soapy water. It’s important to thoroughly scrub each disc with a damp cloth and use caution when handling sharp blades.
All other washable parts should also be brushed or wiped with a damp cloth. To help prevent build-up on plastic components, use only mild soap and never immerse them in water for long periods of time or you run the risk of damaging them.
The food processor workbowl should be hand-washed after each use, no matter what type of soil has been processed within it. Non-removable plastic blades and discs may also be placed in a dishwasher after they have been washed and dried by hand.
In addition to cleaning regularly, to ensure optimal performance of your machine it’s important to inspect all removable parts for signs of wear or breakage prior to reassembling your appliance into its base. If any part is broken or damaged do not attempt to use it as damage could result in a complete malfunction as well as injury.
Reassemble the parts
After thorough inspection and cleaning, reassembling the parts is the next step. Assemble all parts to make sure they fit together properly before applying lubricants.
When all parts are back in place, lubricate any threaded fittings with appropriate lubricant. This includes bolts and fitting threads. Grease pumps should be lubed as well if necessary, using a pump-lube grease or an approved grease for your equipment. Moving parts like pistons need to be lubricated as well.
Make sure the plastics or rubber fittings have oil on them or the wooden parts have proper wax applied and then greased so that items move smoothly against each other with minimal friction.
Reinstalled electrical connections should be tested for voltage with a multimeter to make sure the power is reaching its destination correctly – this is especially important when dealing with motors and actuator arms due to their strength requirements. Also test any switches or other electronic components after installation but before powering up your equipment and running it at full speed.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is an important part of the process for any kitchen appliance. With a Kitchenaid Food Processor Mini, a few of the most common problems are related to power, noise, and grinding. In this section, we’ll go through some steps to diagnose and solve any issues you may be having with your Mini:
- Check the power cord for any breaks or frays.
- Ensure the power outlet is working.
- Check the blade for any obstructions.
- Make sure the lid is securely fastened.
- Check the speed setting.
- Check the capacity of the bowl.
Check the power cord
Check the power cord. Sometimes a bad plug connection can be the cause of your food processor not turning on. Inspect the power cord to make sure it is securely plugged into a working outlet and that there are no visible tears or cuts in the cord. If everything looks in order, you may need to reset the outlet by unplugging it from the wall and plugging it back in.
If this does not resolve the issue, check any power strips or surge protectors for visible signs of damage before replacing your unit with an authorized KitchenAid retailer or service center.
Check the speed and pulse settings
It’s important to select the correct speed and pulse setting when using your KitchenAid Mini Food Processor. Before operating your machine, be sure to check that the speed/pulse selector switch is in the OFF position. After choosing the desired speed or pulses settings, you can turn on your mini food processor.
The speeds range from low to high and allow you to manipulate or combine ingredients with precision and control. If a recipe calls for pulsing only once or twice, then select the pulse option and use the number pad to indicate how many times it should be pulsed.
The low speed is great for chopping leafy greens, nuts and herbs while medium speed can be used for combining heavier ingredients such as bread doughs or smoothie liquids. Finally, high speed is often used for pureeing cooked vegetables or grinding dry items such as coffee beans.
With this guide in mind, you are now ready to use your KitchenAid Mini Food Processor!
Check the blade for any damage
If the blades on your food processor mini seem dull or are damaged, they should be replaced. If a blade has come loose at its fixing bolt, it can also cause your food processor to behave erratically or perform its blending task badly. Before doing any replacement work make sure you unplug the appliance.
For safety reasons, you must always wear protective gloves when handling blades and blades attachments. Dispose of old blades and attachments according to safety regulations. When using protective gloves always use approved safety equipment and proceed with caution.
Unscrew the larger diameter knob from the center of your mini food processor bowl and pull apart. The blade inside should now be visible at the center of your bowl. Examine the blade for any signs of damage such as scarring or pitting.
If there is any damage visible on the blade edges replace it with an identical one before using your kitchenaid food processor mini again. Check for signs of wear as well, in particular, note corrosion that may have built up over time preventing a secure fix against the inside surface of your bowl lid when reassembled correctly. Once you have fitted a new blade securely against the center of your bowl lid re-assemble both carefully considering manufacturer instructions before plugging back into an electrical outlet until needed again in future tasks such as:
- Chopping vegetables
- Pureeing fruits