Introduction
The Ninja BL660 Professional Blender is a powerhouse in many kitchens, celebrated for its blending prowess and ability to crush ice, whip up smoothies, and create delicious frozen treats. However, many owners of this popular blender system may not realize the full extent of its capabilities. Beyond its blending functions, the Ninja BL660 can be transformed into a versatile food processor with the addition of the dedicated food processor attachment. This often-overlooked accessory significantly expands the functionality of your blender, enabling you to chop, slice, shred, and even knead dough with ease. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment, exploring its features, benefits, how to use it, and whether it’s the right addition to your culinary arsenal. If you own a Ninja BL660 and want to take its functionality to the next level, then you’re in the right place.
What is the Ninja BL660 Food Processor Attachment?
The Ninja BL660 food processor attachment is a specialized accessory designed specifically to work with the Ninja BL660 blender base. It’s constructed from durable, BPA-free plastic, ensuring the safety of your food preparations. The attachment typically consists of a generously sized processing bowl with a fitted lid, along with a selection of interchangeable blades designed for different food processing tasks.
The bowl itself usually boasts a capacity suitable for preparing ingredients for several servings, perfect for family meals or small gatherings. The core of the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment lies in its blade design. Usually, you’ll find a multi-blade chopping assembly for quickly and efficiently chopping vegetables, fruits, and nuts. In addition, you’ll discover slicing and shredding discs, empowering you to create consistently sized slices of cucumbers, carrots, and other vegetables, as well as effortlessly shred cheese or other ingredients.
It’s crucial to confirm that the food processor attachment you are considering is specifically designed for the Ninja BL660 model. While some Ninja accessories may appear similar, compatibility isn’t always guaranteed. This can lead to frustration and potential damage to your blender or attachment. Always double-check the product description and ensure that it explicitly states compatibility with the BL660 model before making a purchase. Some other Ninja blender models may be compatible, but verification is key.
Key Features and Benefits
The Ninja BL660 food processor attachment unlocks a world of culinary possibilities beyond simple blending. Let’s delve into its key features and how they can benefit your cooking:
Chopping and Dicing
One of the primary functions of the food processor attachment is its ability to quickly and evenly chop and dice various ingredients. Whether you need finely chopped onions for a flavorful sauce or uniformly diced vegetables for a salad, the attachment delivers consistent results with minimal effort. The multi-blade design of the chopping assembly allows for efficient processing of both soft and firm foods. This feature is a significant time-saver, especially when preparing large quantities of chopped ingredients for meal prepping or batch cooking. No more tedious hand-chopping; the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment handles it all.
Shredding and Slicing
Beyond chopping, the attachment excels at shredding and slicing, expanding your food preparation options even further. With the appropriate slicing or shredding disc in place, you can effortlessly shred cheese for tacos, slice cucumbers for salads, or prepare shredded carrots for coleslaw. The results are professional-looking and consistent, saving you time and ensuring even cooking. This feature is particularly beneficial for preparing ingredients that require uniformity, such as those used in baking or canning. Imagine making homemade coleslaw with perfectly shredded cabbage and carrots in a matter of minutes – the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment makes it a reality.
Kneading Dough
While not every food processor attachment includes this capability, some variations of the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment offer the ability to knead dough. This is a game-changer for those who enjoy baking but dread the time and effort involved in hand-kneading. Whether you’re making pizza dough, bread dough, or even cookie dough, the attachment can handle the kneading process with ease, producing consistent results every time. Say goodbye to sore arms and inconsistent dough texture; the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment simplifies the entire process.
Other Potential Uses
The versatility of the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment extends beyond the core functions mentioned above. Depending on the model and blade configuration, it can also be used for:
- Making Salsa, Dips, or Sauces: Easily create fresh and flavorful salsas, dips, and sauces by combining chopped vegetables, herbs, and spices in the food processor attachment.
- Grinding Nuts: Grind nuts for baking or create homemade nut butters with the attachment. This is a healthier and more cost-effective alternative to store-bought nut butters.
- Making Pesto or Hummus: Easily blend herbs, garlic, nuts, and other ingredients to create delicious pesto or hummus.
Using the Attachment: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment is relatively straightforward. However, following these steps ensures safe and efficient operation:
- Attaching the Bowl: Place the food processor bowl onto the Ninja BL660 motor base. Ensure it’s properly aligned and securely locked into place. The bowl should sit flush with the base, without any wobbling or gaps.
- Installing the Blades: Select the appropriate blade for your desired task (chopping, slicing, shredding). Carefully insert the blade into the bowl, ensuring it’s securely attached to the center post. Always handle the blades with care, as they are sharp.
- Adding Ingredients: Place your ingredients into the food processor bowl, being mindful not to overfill it. Overfilling can cause the motor to strain and may result in uneven processing.
- Securing the Lid: Place the lid onto the bowl and ensure it’s securely locked into place. The blender will not operate if the lid is not properly secured.
- Operating the Blender: Depending on the model, you may have options for pulse processing or continuous processing. Pulse processing allows for greater control over the texture of your ingredients, while continuous processing is ideal for tasks such as chopping or shredding large quantities of food. Experiment with different settings to achieve your desired results.
- Processing Times: Processing times will vary depending on the type of ingredients and the desired texture. Start with short bursts of processing and gradually increase the time until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Safety Tips: Never operate the blender without the lid properly secured. Avoid overfilling the bowl. Do not attempt to process frozen or hard ingredients that may damage the blades. Always unplug the blender before disassembling or cleaning the attachment.
Pros and Cons
Like any kitchen appliance, the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s weigh the pros and cons:
Pros
- Versatility: Expands the functionality of your Ninja BL660 blender, allowing you to perform a wider range of food preparation tasks.
- Time-Saving: Saves time and effort compared to manual chopping, slicing, and shredding.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Simple to operate and clean, making it a convenient addition to your kitchen.
- Cost-Effectiveness: More affordable than purchasing a separate dedicated food processor.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: The bowl capacity may be smaller compared to dedicated food processors.
- Potential Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation, especially when processing hard ingredients.
- May Not Be Suitable for Heavy-Duty Tasks: Not ideal for processing extremely large quantities of food or for tasks requiring a high-powered motor.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your Ninja BL660 food processor attachment. After each use, disassemble the attachment and wash all parts in warm, soapy water. The bowl, lid, and blades may be dishwasher-safe, but always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
- Cleaning Tips: Rinse all parts thoroughly to remove any food residue. Use a soft brush to clean the blades and other hard-to-reach areas.
- Drying: Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling the attachment.
- Maintenance: Inspect the blades regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Replace the blades if they become dull or damaged.
- Storage: Store the attachment in a safe place where it won’t be damaged or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Alternatives and Comparisons
While the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment offers convenience and versatility, it’s important to consider alternative options.
- Dedicated Food Processors: Dedicated food processors offer larger capacities, more powerful motors, and a wider range of features compared to the attachment. They are ideal for those who frequently process large quantities of food or require more specialized functions.
- Other Blender Attachments: Some other blender brands offer food processor attachments similar to the Ninja BL660. Comparing features and prices can help you make an informed decision.
- Attachment vs. Separate Appliance: Consider the trade-offs between the convenience of an attachment and the power and capacity of a dedicated food processor. If you only occasionally need food processing capabilities, the attachment may be sufficient. However, if you frequently perform food processing tasks, a dedicated appliance may be a better investment.
Conclusion
The Ninja BL660 food processor attachment is a valuable addition to any kitchen equipped with a Ninja BL660 blender. It unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, transforming your blender into a versatile food processing machine. From chopping vegetables to shredding cheese to kneading dough, this attachment simplifies food preparation and saves you time and effort.
While it may not replace a dedicated food processor for heavy-duty tasks, the Ninja BL660 food processor attachment offers a cost-effective and convenient solution for expanding the functionality of your blender. If you’re looking to take your Ninja BL660 to the next level and streamline your food preparation process, then the food processor attachment is a worthwhile investment. It’s a user-friendly tool that amplifies your blender’s ability to perform a variety of kitchen tasks, making meal prep quicker and more enjoyable. It’s a highly recommended add-on for Ninja BL660 owners who wish to unlock the full potential of their beloved blending system.
