SalterEK3171 Compact Prep Pro

How we test chopping

We test how well each food processor chops, taking into account preparation time as well as the evenness and fineness of the finished result. To test how well each model handles different food types, we test each model with onions, nuts and herbs - the best food processors work well with all three.

How we test pureeing

We check how well food processors can puree baby food - we check whether the bowl or jug needs scraping down in order for all of the ingredients to be pureed properly and whether the puree is smooth and even. We also sieve it to check whether it contains any lumps.

How we test assembly

We check how each it is to assemble each food processor, assessing how each it is to set up and use as well as whether it's tricky to fix or remove the machine's attachments.

How we test quietness

Food processors can be loud, so we give a subjective rating for how quiet each model is while its in operation.

How we test cleaning

We check how easy each food processor is to clean, taking into account whether the body of the machine is easy to wipe down, how easy the attachments and accessories are to get clean and whether any supplied parts are dishwasher safe.

How we test mixing

We check how well each food processor mixes cake batter, timing how long it takes to mix in all of the ingredients and checking whether they are all well incorporated and how often the bowl needs to be scraped down in the process. We also check how much the cake batter increases in volume after baking - a greater increase suggests a well-mixed batter.

How we test kneading

We assess how well each food processor kneads bread dough, timing how long it takes for it to be kneaded, how even it is in consistency and how much the dough increases in volume. We then bake the dough to check whether the bread has any large air holes - a sign of uneven kneading.

How we test whipping

If a food processor comes with attachments for whipping, we test how well it does the job, assessing how quickly it works and how much cream increases in volume. A good model will take less than a minute and a half to almost double the volume

How we test whisking

If the food processor comes with an attachment for whisking, we check how long it takes the whisk egg whites to a good consistency and measure how much the increase in volume. A good model will work quickly to increase the volume of egg whites to three or four times their original volume

How we test blending soup

If the food processor can blend soup, we test how effective it is. A good food processor will blend soup to a smooth, even consistency.

How we test smoothies

If the food processor is capable of blending, we check how well it can blend a fruit and yoghurt smoothie. We assess whether the smoothie has a fine, even blend and is free of lumps.