Since the first home model was released in 1918, KitchenAid stand mixers have set the standard for chefs worldwide. These workhorses are well-known for their mixing capabilities, but did you know they can also make pasta, chop veggies, and churn ice cream?
The same business that creates the world’s most dependable stand mixer also creates accessories to increase the appliance’s power. Most connect to the mixer’s power hub at the front, however, others connect where the paddle inserts. Today’s accessories are compatible with every stand mixer built by KitchenAid since 1937, thanks to the appliance’s iconic, streamlined design.
Quality design and functionality are not cheap. KitchenAid stand mixer attachments may be costly, so they must go a long way toward easing food preparation in order to be worthwhile. We looked at KitchenAid’s most popular stand mixer attachments to see which ones are worth the money. Continue reading to find out more about KitchenAid Stand Mixer. When you’re ready to purchase, have a look at our suggestions for the finest attachments on the market.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
KitchenAid’s selection of stand mixer accessories may help you save time in the kitchen without sacrificing food quality or nutritional content. Consider your objectives before selecting attachments. Do you want to include more inventive vegetable and fruit dishes in your diet? Reduce your consumption of processed meats? How about making your own gluten-free pasta? KitchenAid has accessories for all of these jobs and more.
Pasta and grains
KitchenAid’s pasta roller attachment set is perhaps its most well-known stand mixer attachment set. This attachment kit contains everything you’ll need to roll and cut different sizes and thicknesses of pasta. If you follow a gluten-free diet or just like to personalize your carbohydrates, this attachment will quickly become a favorite.
Noodles aren’t quite what you’re looking for? Attachments for grinding low-moisture grains are also available from KitchenAid. These stainless steel fixtures crush wheat berries, rice, maize, and other grains to various textures.
Meat
The most well-known KitchenAid accessories are for carbohydrates, but carnivores are also catered to. Some attachments ground meat, pork, and chicken into precise serving sizes. Other accessories make sausages out of ground beef. Others shave ham or turkey into thin, uniform slices. Food-processing equipment may perform double duty – and more – with meats, nuts, and other protein-rich staples.
Vegetables and fruits
There is no such thing as eating too many veggies. The United States Department of Agriculture advises that consumers consume five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and KitchenAid accessories may help you achieve that goal.
Vegetable sheet cutters produce broad, uniform strips of vegetables that may be grilled or stacked into lasagnas.
Spiralizers turn zucchini and other vegetables into long, thin curls that may be stir-fried or used in place of noodles.
If you like fruit, strainer and grinder attachments let you process fibrous fruits and separate away seeds and skins, leaving just a smooth purée. Other models peel, core, and slice hard foods like apples and carrots.
Miscellaneous
Some attachments may not save you much time, but they will let you create entertaining specialty meals that will make your supper memorable. Ice cream maker attachments for stand mixers allow you to produce frozen desserts, while temperature-controlled mixing bowls make fondues and dip simpler to prepare and serve.
EXPERT TIP
Every time, I manually wash my basic accessories, such as the wire whisk or paddle. I just wipe out accessories with intricate internal components, such as a grinder or pasta maker. Submerging intricate attachments in water might promote corrosion and blockages.
FEATURES
Power source
Many KitchenAid accessories may be put into the power hub of your stand mixer. These gadgets use the mixer’s motor to perform the heavy lifting for you. They’re a wonderful choice for goods that need to be fully blended or handled evenly. If you have joint discomfort in your hands and wrists, motorized attachments are a terrific way to prepare fresh food while putting less strain on your body.
To prepare the meal, some attachments use hand cranks or similar mechanisms. With these tools, the mixer’s primary function is to stabilize the meal and the equipment. Hand-crank alternatives are appropriate for meals that require some substance. They’ll often leave bigger, more textured bits, which are ideal for salsas and the like. Because users must power components of the equipment themselves, these attachments are less viable for customers with upper-body joint discomfort.
The machine’s drive mechanism powers a few stand mixer accessories. Attachments that function with the drive assembly are mostly automated, making them appealing to consumers who suffer from hand discomfort.
Materials
The majority of stand mixer attachments are constructed of stainless steel or strong plastic. Steel objects are often more durable, but their cost reflects this. Plastic accessories are often less expensive than metal attachments, but they are prone to breaking and wearing out over time. To keep both quality and costs fair, a variety of goods are built from a combination of metal and plastic.
EXPERT TIPDuring usage, utilize your senses to keep an eye on the motor of your KitchenAid. To verify the temperature of the mixer, place your palm on the bell, or the rounded top region. Mildly warm is OK; hot is not. Also, if you smell motor oil, the mixer is most likely overheating and the lubricating oil is breaking down. Give it a break, then restart.
PRICES OF KITCHENAID STAND MIXER ATTACHMENTS
Inexpensive
The most affordable KitchenAid stand mixer accessories range from $35 to $50. Metal components may be included in accessories in this price range, but the majority will be made of plastic. In this price range, you’ll find grinders, ice cream makers for smaller mixers, and other tiny instruments.
Mid-range
The next generation of stand mixer accessories will range in price from $75 to $100. These accessories feature more metal components but fewer moving parts than more expensive equipment. In this price range, you’ll discover sheet veggie cutters, multi-tool variety packs, smaller spiralizers, and bigger ice cream makers for smaller stand mixers.
High-end
The most expensive KitchenAid accessories will cost between $100 and $150. The tools in this price category are typically composed of steel and contain finely calibrated working components. This price range includes wheat grinders, bigger spiralizers, and pasta rolling and cutting tools.
TIPS
- Not all attachments are dishwasher safe, so seek goods labeled “dishwasher safe” if this feature is essential to you.
- If the attachment you choose has a big bowl, be sure the bowl size is compatible with your stand mixer type.
FAQ
Q. Can I use my recipes with attachments, or must I use the ones that come with the tool?
A. Most of us purchase KitchenAid appliances to simplify our favorite recipes, not to discover new ones. Compare your recipe to the guidelines and instructions in the provided recipes. Some KitchenAid recipes, for example, blend liquid and dry components at certain stages or limit amounts to conserve motor life. If you overheat or burn out your mixer’s motor, you risk ruining it and incurring an expensive repair bill.
Q. Can I really put my attachments in the dishwasher?
A. It is dishwasher safe if an attachment is designated as such. If you have multiple attachments and can’t keep them straight, hand-washing them is a no-brainer. When working with fresh meat, employ additional caution with attachments. Failure to completely clean meat grinders and associated items at high temperatures may result in germs being present. Meat grinders marketed as dishwasher safe should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q. Does my KitchenAid need maintenance?
A. KitchenAid stand mixers are workhorses, but even workhorses need maintenance. To maintain your stand mixer in good condition, unplug it and clean it down with a moist towel after each usage. If you’re utilizing attachments, pay close attention to the areas surrounding the driveshaft mechanism and power hub. Fine particles like flour and confectioner’s sugar may build up in specific locations and impair performance. Some maintenance, such as bowl adjustments and grease, may be done at home. More difficult repairs may need the services of a specialist.
