The cocktail mixer, which is widely used in bars and cafes, can also be useful for home use. What are the features of this device and how to choose the right model? Consider the characteristics and functions of mixers from popular manufacturers.
Device Feature
Professionals note that an important characteristic of a cocktail mixer is the speed of rotation of the nozzle. It is from this option that the airiness of the drink and foaming depend. The larger the cocktail, the better the device.
Good mixers are made of steel, because this material is easy to clean and not subject to mechanical stress. Also devices come with protection against empty inclusion. If there is no glass in the mixer, then the device itself will not start if the button is accidentally pressed. This is an important criterion for user safety.
Manufacturers offer devices with a fixed speed, which are distinguished by little functionality and simplicity. There are also devices with multiple modesspeed, this makes it possible to smoothly change the speed if necessary. Standard mixers run at 10,000-20,000 rpm.
Design Features
A cocktail mixer differs from a standard device for mixing liquid and bulk products in that it is not designed to perform other functions. The design consists of a deep and high bowl into which the mixing device itself is immersed. Most often, the bowl is made of stainless steel, glass or high-strength plastic. The container does not need to be held as it is secured to the device with clips.
When buying, it is important to pay attention to the volume of the liquid container. It depends on the individual needs of the family or the drinking establishment. The liquid does not splash during mixing, as the beaters are securely fastened. The weight of a standard mixer is from 5 to 10 kg.
The case of the device is stable, in order to reduce the force of vibration, some models are equipped with suction cups instead of legs. All devices are loud enough.
In addition to cocktails, the mixer can make ice cream, fruit puree or dessert if the model has several speeds.
Types of mixers
Cocktail mixers can be professional or household. Professional models are more durable, designed for long and trouble-free operation. In household versions, reduced power, as periodic use of appliances is provided.
Devices for tasty and airy drinks can also be divided into one-, two- and three-horn. This means that you can prepare not one cocktail at a time, but several at once. At the same time, the capacity of the bowls may be different.
If it is planned to dilute the cocktail with ice in the mixer, then it is better to choose a durable apparatus, the bowl of which is made of stainless steel. The drink is prepared in less than a minute, it directly depends on the speed of revolutions.
What to look for when choosing?
When preparing a milkshake with a mixer at home, it is important to familiarize yourself with the principle of operation of the device and adhere to safety rules.
What to look for when choosing?
Material of manufacture
Stainless steel or high strength plastic is the best option. Such devices have a long service life.
Dimensions
It all depends on personal preferences, as well as on the availability of free space in the kitchen, since the installation is stationary. The standard weight of the device for home use is up to 1 kg. Depending on the dimensions of the mixer, the required volume of the bowl is also selected.
Power
For home use, a device with an average power of up to 300 watts is suitable. The higher the power, the faster the whipping process.
Number of speeds and attachments
The more functional the device, the more different goodies you can cook on it.
Optional accessories
Many modelsMixers come with extra accessories such as brushes, bowl scrapers and measuring cups.
To choose a truly safe device, you should pay attention to additional options: overload protection, anti-slip feet, stabilization system, turbo mode and rubberized handle.
Popular brands and user reviews
In the market of popular mixer manufacturers, the following companies stand out:
Fimar and Macap (Italy)
Models of this manufacturer are compact, can be single or double, the maximum volume of the bowl is up to 800 ml. Power depends on the model, the case is aluminum. Prices for mixers are in the middle price category.
Sirman (Italy)
Milkshake with an ice cream mixer is whipped at a speed of up to 14 thousand revolutions per minute. The capacity of the plastic or steel bowl is up to 750 ml. There is a spare container. Users note that the price of such a product is too high, because it is not powerful enough, and there is no microswitch in the device.
Bartscher (Germany)
The company's products are classified as professional, but can also be used for home use. The body is made of chrome-plated steel, and a glass with a capacity of up to 750 ml is made of stainless steel. The power of the device is high, there are 2 different speeds. Mixers are tall enough, although narrow, so they do not take up much space in the kitchen. In addition, the weight of the entire structure is large, up to 6 kg. Among the shortcomings, users note thatthe whisk does not reach the bottom of the glass, so it is impossible to whip a smoothie from pieces of berries and fruits, in this case it is better to add fruit puree to the bowl right away.
Ewt Inox (China)
The budget version of mixers, distinguished by quality, reliability and ease of operation. Stainless steel body, the volume of the bowl, which can be two, up to 1200 ml. Among the Chinese options, the Gastrorag cocktail mixer stands out, which has high power, has 2 rotation speeds. The weight of the installation itself is 4.5 kg. Despite the Chinese production, users note its high speed, high-quality whipping, which results in a rather voluminous and airy drink. This option is suitable for both home use and high-traffic bars or cafes.
Hamilton Beach (USA)
Expensive equipment, which is of high quality, the presence of two bowls up to 900 ml at once and three different speeds. At the same time, the device is quite large. Users note ease of use, since there is an automatic start function when the bowl is put back in place, compactness and safety, since the device does not have piercing components.
How to use?
There are many cocktail recipes for the mixer, it is important to learn how to use the device correctly.
Recommendations for the operation of milk mixers:
- Fruit supplements are best used in liquid or crushed form, not whole, and only soft foods.
- The bowl is labeled min max,not to be ignored.
- Chilled ingredients whipped in a mixer will make the cocktail more voluminous, foamy and delicious.
- Milk is poured first, at least 3.2% fat content, the foam on the cocktail depends on this indicator.
- First, liquid products are whipped, then denser ones.
- Regardless of the model, due to the speed of rotation of the whisks, the device works quite loudly. Families with small children should consider this.
