Vitamix Perfect Blend Scale Review

Posted on by
31

vitamix-perfect-blend-scale-with-ginger-kale-smoothieVitamix just released a “smart” scale called the Vitamix Perfect Blend Scale, and this is my review. It’s an interesting device. I don’t think it is for everyone, but some people will love it. (Vitamix sent me one to review, and if you order one via one of my links, I get a commission.)

Here are the ways in which it can improve your blending experience:

  • Offers recipe exploration and reminds you what you can make.
  • Makes measuring easier, especially for sticky ingredients.
  • Guides you through more complex recipes.
  • Tracks nutrition.
  • Facilitates portion control.

Continue Reading →

Making Larabars in a Vitamix

Posted on by
10

cashew-cookie-larabar-made-in-vitamixIf you somehow haven’t heard of Larabars, they are tasty snack bars made from dried fruit/dates and nuts. They usually have 2–6 simple ingredients, depending on the flavor. As with many things, if you make them yourself, you can customize, save money, and get the satisfaction of making something. They are easy, and there are tons of copycat recipes online. However, most recipes call for a food processor, so I was curious how they would come out with just a Vitamix; perfectly well, it turns out. I have a few Vitamix-specific tips at the end of the post, as well as a homemade vs. packaged Larabar price comparison. Continue Reading →

Vanilla Fig Smoothie

Posted on by
4

Vanilla Fig SmoothieI came up with this blend because I wanted a snack, but was out of fresh fruit. In the freezer I had frozen mango and figs. I wouldn’t have guessed that they would go together, but, combined with vanilla, the result is surprisingly delicious.

I’ve previously written about how you can use vanilla pods in smoothies, but this time I just used extract. For most things, I think extract is the way to go, because it is cheaper/easier, and you don’t sacrifice too much flavor.

Both mango and figs have plenty of fiber, so the smoothie comes out relatively thick, but still fully drinkable. Continue Reading →

How to Make Frappuccino-Style Blended Coffee Drinks

Posted on by
27

Vitamix FrappuccinoPeople have been asking me how to make Frappuccinos at home. They tried, but got disappointingly separated ice and liquid, even using a Vitamix. I looked up the Starbucks list of ingredients, and found the secret ingredient: xanthan gum. In this post I will cover how to use xanthan, and also give a whole-food alternative for making satisfying frappes.

If you are a frequent drinker of Frappuccinos, you can save a lot of money by making them at home, plus you can customize them to be exactly how you like. They’re super easy too: a Vitamix will blend one in about 20 seconds. Continue Reading →

A golden smoothie with a kick

Posted on by
7

Golden SmoothieHere’s a zingy and refreshing smoothie:

¼ cup water
1 orange, peeled
⅓ pineapple, peeled (~1.5 cups pieces)
fresh ginger (piece ~¾ inch on a side)
turmeric (fresh piece ~¾ inch on a side, or ¼ tsp powder)
1 cup frozen mango

Blend on high until smooth. Makes 2 medium servings.

Depending on how much of a kick you want, you can increase the ginger and turmeric. Continue Reading →