KitchenAid KFP0918 Food Processor review 9 Cup Black Matte performance and features tested

Description

Design and Build Quality

The KitchenAid KFP0918 Food Processor immediately impressed me with its sleek black matte finish. It’s not just another bulky appliance; it’s designed to look modern and sophisticated. The compact 9-cup work bowl feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy to handle. I appreciate the twist-free, one-click assembly—it’s a huge time-saver, especially when I’m juggling multiple kitchen tasks. The latched lid clicks into place securely, so I’ve never had to worry about accidental spills. Plus, the integrated cord storage keeps things neat on my countertop.

The stainless steel blade material is another standout feature. It doesn’t just look durable; it performs like it too. Whether I’m slicing tomatoes or shredding cheese, the blades deliver clean, precise cuts every single time. At just 6.35 pounds, the food processor is easy to move around, but it doesn’t feel flimsy. It’s the perfect balance of portability and robustness.

Ease of Use and Setup

As someone who isn’t a fan of overly complicated gadgets, I found this processor ridiculously simple to use. The snap-and-go assembly eliminates the usual frustration of aligning parts. The easy-press paddles are intuitive, and the illuminated LED controls make it easy to switch between the three speed options: High, Low, and Pulse. I tested all three settings while making salsa, and switching between them felt seamless.

The 2-in-1 feed tube is another lifesaver. It accommodates everything from whole cucumbers to smaller ingredients like carrots, so I didn’t have to spend extra time pre-cutting. And cleaning? A breeze. The leak-resistant bowl just needed warm water and a couple of drops of dish soap. It’s also dishwasher safe, which my lazy side greatly appreciates.

Key Benefits

This food processor has so many highlights that I can’t imagine my kitchen without it. Some of the winning points include:

• All-in-one storage: All blades and discs fit neatly inside the bowl, keeping my kitchen clutter-free.
• Versatility: It handles everything from chopping and slicing to pureeing and kneading dough.
• Speed options: The three-speed functionality ensures precision whether I’m shredding cheese or pulsing nuts for a dessert topping.
• Compact design: Despite its 9-cup capacity, it doesn’t hog counter space.

Performance and Versatility

The KitchenAid Food Processor isn’t just about looks; it’s a workhorse. I tested its abilities with a variety of foods. For instance, it shredded cheese in seconds without turning it into mush. The reversible medium slicing/shredding disc allows for different textures, which was helpful when making coleslaw. I also tried the thick slicing disc on potatoes for scalloped potatoes, and the slices were even and professional-looking.

One unexpected feature that stood out was its ability to knead dough. While I don’t bake often, I was curious to see how it would handle pizza dough. Using the multi-purpose blade, it created a smooth, elastic dough in minutes. This processor truly shines in its versatility, tackling everything from veggies to bread dough effortlessly.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many positives, there are a few areas for improvement:

• The feed tube, while practical, could be slightly larger for bulkier vegetables like whole potatoes.
• Noise levels: It’s not unbearably loud, but it’s definitely noticeable during operation.
• The plastic bowl, although durable, feels slightly less premium compared to the rest of the unit.

Competing Products

In a market filled with competing brands, the KitchenAid Food Processor holds its own. Compared to the Cuisinart FP-8SV, this model offers a better storage solution for blades and discs. However, the Cuisinart edges out in terms of feed tube size. The Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor, while more affordable, lacks the sleek design and twist-free assembly that KitchenAid offers.

Where this processor really excels is in its user-friendly controls and cleaning convenience. Many competitors, like the Breville Sous Chef, have a steeper learning curve, making this KitchenAid model ideal for anyone who values simplicity and efficiency.

Value for Money

When evaluating its price-to-quality ratio, this food processor feels like a smart investment. It offers a blend of affordable quality and premium features that justify its cost. While there are cheaper options on the market, they often lack the durability and functionality this one provides. The KitchenAid KFP0918 proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a decent price.

This appliance isn’t just for chefs; it’s for anyone who wants to make cooking easier. Whether you’re chopping veggies for a simple salad or shredding cheese for a homemade pizza, this processor can handle it all. It’s rare to find a kitchen gadget that’s both highly functional and easy to use, but the KitchenAid Food Processor checks all the boxes.

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