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11:27 am
October 31, 2010
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Yes…I got a Vita-Mix juicer that was my mom's. The book says it will do almost everything – even clean the bathroom 
. (Well, maybe not that, but you get the idea.)
So…anyone have any experience with this little appliance? Do you like it, hate it, etc.? Should I take the time to learn how to use it or is it just another one of those things that takes up space and I should just stick to my KA mixer and a food processor?
12:29 pm
May 3, 2010
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I've had one for almost 20 years and it was definitely worth learning to use even tho I already had a big Cuisinart and a KA.
It's what I turn to for making smoothies, soft-serve ice cream-style desserts, tomato sauces especially when canning and I want to include the skins and seeds, many fruit sauces (tho I don't include the pits, of course), anything pureed (tho I'm learning to love a stick blender for in-the-pot pureeing), soaking grains that I'll want to grind when saturated, and, our #1 favorite use — Sue Gregg-style flour-free blender pancakes made from oatmeal.
Over the years I've added other kitchen tools that will do many of the things the VitaMix does and often in a more useful manner. Like the stick blender — no longer have to pour hot tomatoes into the VitaMix in small batches. And, we bought a grain mill a few years ago because once I started making all our flour-based foods (bread, rolls, crackers, pastries, cakes, cookies, etc.) from fresh-ground grains, the VitaMix couldn't keep up with a dedicated grain mill. So I sometimes wonder if I'd replace it if it goes but, thankfully, it's a real workhorse and other than having to replace the rubber gasket thingy that seals the lid, I've never had any trouble with it. Plus I'd still need something other than the food processor when I want to chop/blend liquid-y foods. The food processor is good at what it does, but even my 14-cup capacity one balks at really juicy stuff — it overflows and makes a mess!
12:31 pm
December 28, 2008
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Are you talking about the VitaMix that looks like a blender on steroids? If so, it's one terrific machine. If not, I can't help you!
I grind grain in my VitaMix (this model has seperate canisters for wet and dry ingredients) and use it for most everything that others might use a blender or a food processor for. It may be the most used applance in this household.
3:15 pm
June 1, 2010
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oh, you lucky gal, you!
5:30 pm
October 10, 2009
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We have had a Vita-Mix for about 5 years. As mentioned above it is great for smoothies, ice cream, mayonnaise, quck soups from fresh garden produce. I tried making peanut butter but it was just too stiff for the motor (we have the pro model!) and extremely difficult to get all of it from the jar so I do that in my food processor. DH had wanted one for many years and I fought it, but when we found it on sale I finally agreed. Excellent product.
5:53 pm
May 3, 2010
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mamawolf said:
As mentioned above it is great for smoothies, ice cream, mayonnaise, quck soups from fresh garden produce.
I forgot that one! I've made mayo in the food processor but much prefer to use the VitaMix.
7:47 pm
June 2, 2010
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WalnutSpinney said:
our #1 favorite use — Sue Gregg-style flour-free blender pancakes made from oatmeal.
I'll agree with you on the Sue Gregg blender pancakes/waffles. My old blender almost gave up the ghost trying to make them. My Vitamix doesn't even get warmed up and it makes the most delicious whole grain waffles you'll ever eat. Our favorite combo is oatmeal/Kamut. DH didn't even realize he was eating 100% whole grain until after I told him. Delicious.
The Vitamix is great a grinding grains, small amount, smoothies, lump free sauces, soups, etc. A wonderful product. I bought mine as a reconditioned unit, complete with warranty. Saved a bundle and it's perfect.
9:00 pm
October 31, 2010
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I did notice the recipe for mayonnaise and was hoping to hear from someone that it would work well for that. I used to make it in my blender years ago, but when I've tried it recently it hasn't worked for me in the blender. So…I'm hoping to try it in there!
10:02 pm
March 22, 2010
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No experience, but I'm jealous. I've wanted one for years, but couldn't quite justify the expense. Someday…
8:14 pm
October 31, 2010
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Thank you, everyone, for your input! I'll have to do some experimenting with it in the next few weeks.
2:59 pm
September 10, 2011
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I have the Vita Mix 3600 – somewhere in the 36-year old range. It makes fantastic whole wheat bread – actually, the ingredients are kneaded right in the hopper. I grind the wheat berries, then add the remaining ingredients in the order listed, knead, and – first slice off a hot loaf fresh from the oven, slathered with soft butter! The only part that has been replaced is the blade assembly – that was a significant expense. I really could use the rubber gizmo attached to the up/down switch – used when kneading bread dough, but many parts are no longer available. The company is really good about sending recipes, if you didn't get any books. When I get volunteer pumpkins and cook them down in the pressure cooker, I stuff the cooked pumpkin into the bag – it's normally used to make apple cider – press out the liquid, and freeze. I feel sorry for those who have to remember to change from a wet to a dry hopper and vice versa. But, enjoy what you have and, remember, the Vita Mix loves to be loved *used*.
4:19 pm
October 10, 2009
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I also use the Vita-Mix to puree tomatoes for canning sauces, etc. No peeling and/or seeding. It makes everything smooth and I get to keep the nutrients of the skins. Sorry that I drug my feet on purchasing this workhorse. It also makes yummy margeritas!!
4:53 pm
October 31, 2010
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Hikerpat -
Have you tried ebay for the parts? I'm always surprised at what I can get new that is no longer being manufactured.
Mamma -
That's a great tip! I also like to keep as many of the parts/nutrients in my stuff. I'll remember that one!
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