Blender

Always buy the simplest blender available. Small home-kitchen types with an array of buttons for every conceivable consistency of liquid are usually less powerful and reliable than a simple blender with a heavy base and only two speeds: slow and fast. Companies such as KitchenAid and Vitamix manufacture extra heavy–duty blenders that work well for soups and large amounts of sauce.

Observe three precautions when using blenders for hot liquids: Never fill a blender more than half full; always start the blender on slow speed; and wrap a kitchen towel tightly around the lid of the container. Hot liquids expand quickly in the blender, and can shoot out the top and make a nasty spill. When using a blender for sauces containing a large proportion of cream, remember that the sauce must be 120°F (50°C) or more, or the cream will turn into butter.