Indian cuisine, renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, demands a specific set of tools for authentic preparation, especially when it comes to grinding spices and making chutneys. While American blenders are great for smoothies, they often fall short in handling the unique requirements of Indian cooking, such as making thick chutneys or grinding dry spices without adding excess water, which can alter the desired consistency. For those who love cooking Indian dishes in the USA, the challenge is finding a mixer grinder that not only handles these tasks with ease but also aligns with the USA’s electrical standards.
Importing a mixer grinder from India might seem like a straightforward solution, but it’s impractical due to the differing electrical voltage requirements between the two countries. Therefore, it’s essential to find a mixer grinder specifically designed for use in the USA.
Navigating the market for the ideal mixer grinder for Indian cooking in the USA can be overwhelming, given the plethora of options available. To simplify your search, we’ve meticulously selected and reviewed some of the top-selling and most efficient models, highlighting their features, advantages, and drawbacks.
For those short on time, we recommend the Preethi Blue Leaf Platinum Mixer Grinder (shop now) as a top pick. After extensive research and comparison of various models, this mixer grinder stands out with its robust motor, ample capacity, and three versatile jars. An added benefit is the presence of a service center in Illinois, USA, ensuring easy access to repairs and replacements.
1. Preethi Eco Twin Jar Mixer Grinder
The Preethi Eco Twin Jar Mixer Grinder is a top choice for those who love to create authentic Indian dishes at home. This mixer grinder not only boasts a style reminiscent of a typical mixie found in Indian kitchens, but its compact design also ensures it doesn’t take up too much space. Equipped with a robust 550Watt motor that operates at 110V, it offers efficient and quick grinding capabilities. It comes with two jars of different capacities, perfect for everything from grinding dry spices and herbs to preparing chutneys and pastes. Both the jars and blades are crafted from durable stainless steel.
A unique feature we appreciate is the flexibility of the 1.5-liter jar, which can be converted to a 1-liter jar using a flexi lid, and the 0.5-liter chutney jar that can be reduced to 0.3 liters. The blades are initially machine-ground and then polished, ensuring superior grinding performance.
Safety is a key consideration in this model, as it is designed to automatically shut off in case of overload. It can be manually restarted once it has cooled down. Additionally, it is UL-approved, offering an extra layer of safety compared to many Indian brands. Preethi also provides a 12-month service warranty for added peace of mind.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Dimensions: 13 x 8.6 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 9 pounds
- Includes 2 jars – 1.50 liters and 0.50 liters
- 110V 60hz, 550 Watts
- UL approved for enhanced safety
- Powerful and efficient motor
- Rust-proof stainless steel construction
- 1-year warranty
- Service center located in Illinois, USA
Customer/User Impressions:
Customers have expressed their satisfaction with how effectively this mixer grinder handles blending, grinding, and pulsing of wet lentils, rice, and whole grains. The design and functionality are highly praised, making it feel like a traditional Indian mixie adapted for American kitchens. However, some users have noted that the mixer can be quite loud, which might be a concern for those accustomed to quieter blenders. There have also been a few remarks about the warranty not being as comprehensive as expected.
Conclusion:
For enthusiasts of Indian cooking, the Preethi Eco Twin Jar Mixer Grinder is an excellent investment. It combines the essence of an Indian mixie with the specifications suitable for American kitchens. Overall, this mixer grinder represents a worthwhile purchase for those looking to recreate authentic Indian flavors, from Paneer curries to mint chutneys, in the comfort of their home.
2. Ultra Stealth 750-Watt 4-Jar Mixer Grinder
For those who are concerned about the typically loud operation of Indian mixers, the Ultra Stealth mixer grinder offers a quieter solution without compromising on the ability to handle the demands of Indian cooking. The design of this mixer grinder, available on Amazon, is aesthetically pleasing with its bright red and white color scheme, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop. It comes equipped with four versatile jars and blades, enabling a wide range of culinary tasks such as preparing chutneys, fruit juices, wet mixes, and pastes. The powerful 750 Watt motor ensures swift and consistent grinding.
The jars, made of rust-resistant and food-grade stainless steel, are designed for healthy cooking. The mixer features a hook-type power cord for easy plug-in and removal. Its control panel, located on the front, includes three speed buttons to accommodate various grinding, juicing, and blending needs. This mixer grinder is capable of performing multiple functions like making smoothies, fruit juices, crushing ice, churning butter, dry grinding, and more. It comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, valid only in the country of purchase.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17 x 15 x 10 inches
- Weight: 15.35 pounds
- Constructed from Stainless Steel
- 110 Volts Power
- Includes 4 jars
- Heavy-duty 750-Watt Motor
- 3 Unique Speeds + Pulse function
- Capacity up to 1.5 liters
- 2-year warranty
Customer/User Impressions:
Customers who enjoy Indian cooking have found this mixer grinder to be versatile and powerful, suitable for various tasks like making idli/dosa batter, chutneys, and pastes. Users have noted that while the construction is robust, the lid needs to be held during operation. Some have advised against blending hot food or filling the jars beyond half their capacity.
Conclusion:
The Ultra Stealth mixer grinder is an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in Indian cooking in their American kitchens. Though it may be slightly pricier than competitors like Preethi, its additional power, capacity, and extra jars justify the cost. Overall, it’s an impressive appliance that can fulfill your cravings for Indian cuisine with ease and efficiency.
3. Tabakh Prime Indian Mixer Grinder
For those with limited kitchen space who still desire a high-quality mixie, the Tabakh Prime Indian mixer grinder is an excellent choice. It boasts a powerful 600-Watt motor and operates at 110 Volts, making it well-suited for the demands of Indian cooking in American kitchens. The mixer’s body is constructed from impact-resistant ABS material, offering durability along with an elegant and aesthetic exterior design. Its compact size is a significant advantage, ensuring it doesn’t occupy too much space, while the vacuum rubber feet provide a stable and firm grip during use.
The mixer grinder includes two jars with capacities of 0.4 and 1.5 liters, catering to different cooking needs. The smaller jar is perfect for fine dry grinding, and the larger one is ideal for wet blending and grinding. It operates at noise levels of 80-90 Db, comparable to a lawnmower. Initially, users may notice a slight burning smell due to the coating evaporating when the mixie is running, which is normal. The product comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty, and there’s a service center located in Illinois for any support needs.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 10 inches
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Constructed from stainless steel
- 110V, 600 Watts
- Durable ABS body
- Includes 2 Jars – 0.4L and 1.5L
- Designed for USA and Canada Power Supply
- Elegant and aesthetic design
Customer/User Impressions:
Customers who have purchased this mixer grinder have praised it for being a top-tier mixie at an affordable price. Many users have compared its performance favorably to the Preethi mixer, noting its efficiency in grinding dry masalas and other ingredients for Indian cuisine.
Conclusion:
The Tabakh Prime Indian Mixer Grinder is an ideal choice for those with smaller kitchens, offering a compact yet stylish solution without compromising on functionality. It’s perfectly equipped to handle both dry and wet grinding tasks, allowing you to prepare a variety of Indian dishes with ease. If you’re looking for a space-saving yet efficient mixer grinder, the Tabakh mixer (available on Amazon) is definitely worth considering.
4. Preethi Blue Leaf Platinum
The Preethi Blue Leaf Platinum Mixer Grinder stands out as the flagship product of the Preethi brand, known for its reliable performance that consistently delivers healthy and delicious meals. This mixer grinder comes equipped with four jars of varying capacities, with the largest being 1.75 liters. The jars are designed to be rust-proof, and their lids and domes are crafted from durable Polycarbonate. The Super Extractor jar is particularly useful for extracting juices from a variety of vegetables and fruits. An added convenience is the extra grind and store bottles, which are great for keeping ground spices handy and reducing cooking time.
Featuring a robust and innovative 550-Watt motor that operates at 110V, this mixer grinder is suitable for use in both the USA and Canada. The motor is UL-recognized, adhering to safety standards, including an overload switch at the bottom that automatically turns off in case of overload. Its compact design and flexible cord make storage easy when the appliance is not in use. The manufacturer’s commitment to quality is evident in the 1-year guarantee of free service offered with this product.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17 x 15 x 10 inches
- Weight: 12.94 pounds
- Includes Grind ‘n’ Store Bottles
- Self Support Service Kit
- 110V 60hz, 550 Watts
- Rust-proof blades
- Made from Stainless Steel & Polycarbonate
- Shockproof ABS Body
- UL recognized motor
Customer/User Impressions:
Many users have praised the motor’s high quality, noting its efficiency in grinding both dry and wet ingredients, which adds convenience to cooking. The overheating switch is a popular feature, as it prevents damage from overheating. However, some users have reported a burning smell during use, attributing it to the materials used in construction.
Conclusion:
The Preethi Blue Leaf Platinum Mixer Grinder (shop now) is an excellent choice for those who value both aesthetics and quality construction. Its various grinding jars and innovative blades are adept at creating the spice powders, pastes, and blends essential for Indian cooking. Overall, considering its features and price point, this mixer grinder is a strong contender for anyone looking to enhance their Indian cooking experience.
5. Hamilton Beach Professional 4-in-1 Juicer Mixer Grinder
The Hamilton Beach Professional 4-in-1 Juicer Mixer Grinder is a high-performance kitchen appliance, expertly designed for the diverse requirements of Indian cooking. This mixer grinder excels in mixing, grinding, blending, and juicing, efficiently handling everything from silky idli batter to tough ingredients like coconut and turmeric. It comes with a chef-developed recipe book by Kunal Kapur, adding a gourmet touch to your cooking adventures.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Dimensions: 17 x 15 x 10 inches
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Powerful commercial-grade 2.2 peak HP motor (1400 watts rated)
- Advanced electronics with infinite speed control and intelligent speed sensor
- 13 custom program settings for consistent results
- Includes 3 stainless steel jars (0.5, 1, and 1.5 liters) with square sides for better grinding
- Durable blades and leakproof Tritan lids
- Engineered in India & USA
- 5-year total product protection
- 120V compatibility for use in the USA and countries with 120V outlets
Customer/User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the powerful motor that can handle a wide range of ingredients with ease, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The advanced electronic controls and custom settings are highly praised for delivering precise and consistent results. Users also value the durable construction and leakproof design of the jars. However, some users have noted the size of the appliance as being slightly larger for smaller kitchens.
Conclusion:
The Hamilton Beach Professional 4-in-1 Juicer Mixer Grinder is a top-tier choice for those seeking a versatile and powerful appliance for Indian-style cooking. Its combination of a robust motor, advanced features, and durable construction makes it a valuable tool for anyone passionate about cooking. With its 5-year protection plan and compatibility with 120V outlets, it is a reliable and long-term investment for your kitchen.
6. EconoHome Mixer Grinder
The EconoHome Mixer Grinder is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance, designed to cater to the diverse needs of Asian cooking. This 5-in-1 kitchen mixer is a comprehensive set that includes a mixer grinder, a liquidizing jar, a dry & wet grinding jar, a chutney jar, and a spatula, making it a valuable upgrade for any kitchen.
Product Features and Specifications:
- Powerful 750 watt motor for quick and efficient grinding
- Razor-sharp stainless steel 304 blades for fine grinding
- Includes 1 liquidizing jar, 1 dry & wet grinding jar, and 1 chutney jar
- i-LOCK system for hands-free operation and safety
- Feather touch controls for easy operation and speed adjustment
- Ergonomic groove on jars for smooth performance
- 3D cooling technology to prevent overheating
- Octafin rotary system for smooth and safe operation
- Ideal for preparing a variety of foods quickly and efficiently
Customer/User Impressions:
Users are impressed with the powerful motor and sharp blades, which make grinding and mixing both dry and wet ingredients a breeze. The i-LOCK system is particularly appreciated for its safety feature, allowing users to multitask in the kitchen without worry. The feather touch controls and ergonomic design of the jars are also noted for their ease of use and convenience. However, some users may find the appliance a bit bulky for smaller kitchen spaces.
Conclusion:
The EconoHome Mixer Grinder is an excellent choice for those looking for a multi-functional and efficient kitchen appliance for Asian cooking. Its combination of power, safety features, and user-friendly design make it a practical and reliable tool for any kitchen. Whether you’re grinding spices, making chutneys, or preparing liquid batters, this mixer grinder is equipped to handle it all with ease.
Things To Look For In Your Mixer Grinder
When selecting an Indian mixer grinder, especially those of American origin, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to keep in mind, along with additional tips to help you make an informed choice:
1. Motor Power
Contrary to popular belief, a higher wattage isn’t always synonymous with better performance. For typical Indian cooking tasks like grinding and blending, a motor with 400 to 750 watts is usually sufficient. While there are models with over 1,000 watts, they are generally overkill for everyday kitchen needs.
2. Speed Settings
Control over the mixer grinder’s speed is essential for efficient and precise blending or grinding. Look for models with a variable speed dial, allowing gradual increase in speed. While many US models lack this feature, a standard 3-speed setting is often adequate for most Indian recipes.
3. Jar Variety
The number and type of jars are crucial depending on your cooking requirements. Consider a small jar for grinding spices into fine powders and a larger one for wet ingredients. If you’re interested in juicing, ensure the mixer includes a suitable jar for this purpose.
4. Safety Features
Given the high-speed blades in mixer grinders, safety cannot be overstated. Opt for models that only operate when the lid is securely closed. Additionally, a thermal overload protector (or safety switch) is a valuable feature to prevent overheating and potential accidents.
5. Ease of Cleaning
A user-friendly mixer grinder should be easy to clean. Models that are simple to disassemble and have fewer grooves or complicated parts can save time and effort in cleaning, especially after blending wet ingredients.
Additional Tips:
- Stability: Look for a mixer grinder with a sturdy base and non-slip feet to ensure it remains stable during operation.
- Noise Level: Some grinders can be quite loud. If noise is a concern, search for models known for quieter operation.
- Warranty and Service: Choose a brand that offers a good warranty period and has accessible service centers, especially important for high-use appliances like mixer grinders.
- Design and Size: Consider the size and design of the mixer grinder, ensuring it fits well in your kitchen space and matches your aesthetic preferences.
- User Reviews: Before making a purchase, read user reviews to understand the pros and cons of the model you’re considering.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a mixer grinder that not only meets your culinary needs but also enhances your cooking experience.
Related Questions
Q1: What is the most effective way to clean a mixer grinder jar?
A1: For efficient cleaning, add a small amount of dishwashing liquid and water to the jar, swirl it around for a couple of seconds, and then discard the water. Rinse the jar thoroughly with clean water to finish the cleaning process.
Q2: How can I eliminate unpleasant odors from a mixer grinder jar?
A2: To remove odors, mix some baking soda with warm water in the jar, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then rinse with tap water. Regular cleaning after each use is recommended to prevent odor buildup.
Q3: Is the Vitamix suitable for making Indian chutneys?
A3: Yes, the Vitamix is a versatile and powerful mixer grinder that excels in preparing Indian chutneys, offering the right consistency and texture.
Q4: Can Indian mixer grinders be used in the USA?
A4: Indian mixer grinders can be used in the USA if they meet the local voltage requirements and plug types. Some models are specifically designed for use in the USA and Canada, eliminating the need for voltage converters.
Q5: What wattage is ideal for a mixer grinder used for Indian cooking in the USA?
A5: A mixer grinder with a wattage between 500 to 750 watts is ideal for most Indian cooking needs in the USA, efficiently handling a variety of ingredients.
Q6: Is it possible to use an Indian grinder in the USA?
A6: Yes, but you may need a voltage converter. Indian mixer grinders designed for 110 V can be used in the USA without additional equipment.
Q7: What’s the difference between a 550 W and 750 W mixer grinder?
A7: A 550-watt mixer grinder is generally sufficient for regular kitchen use with softer ingredients, while a 750-watt grinder is better suited for tougher, denser ingredients.
Q8: What wattage should I look for in a mixer grinder?
A8: Aim for a mixer grinder with 500 to 750 watts of power for optimal performance in preparing various dishes and condiments. Higher wattage is rarely necessary for typical household cooking tasks.
Q9: Can mixer grinders be used to grind meat?
A9: Yes, higher wattage mixer grinders (around 750 watts) can be used to grind meat. However, it’s important to cut the meat into small pieces and remove any bones for efficient grinding.
Q10: How do I maintain the sharpness of the blades in my mixer grinder?
A10: To maintain blade sharpness, regularly clean the blades and avoid overloading the grinder. Running the grinder with a little rock salt can help keep the blades sharp.
Q11: Are there any safety precautions to consider while using a mixer grinder?
A11: Always ensure the lid is securely closed before operation, do not overload the jar, and avoid running the mixer grinder continuously for extended periods to prevent overheating.
Q12: Can mixer grinders be used for making dough?
A12: Some mixer grinders come with an atta kneading attachment suitable for kneading dough. However, this is more commonly a feature of food processors.
Q13: How long can I run my mixer grinder continuously?
A13: It’s advisable not to run a mixer grinder for more than 5 minutes continuously. Give it a rest for a few minutes to prevent overheating, especially when handling tough grinding tasks.