Preparing the Food

TIPS FOR

PROCESSING FOOD

Size

Always cut large pieces of food into smaller pieces of even size – about 1⁄2 inch (12mm) to a side or as specified under “Operating Techniques” on page 4. If you don’t start with pieces that are small and uniform, you will not get an even chop.

Quantity

Do not overload the work bowl. Overloading causes inconsistent results and it strains the motor. Use the quantities given in the recipe section as a guide. As a rule of thumb, remem- ber that after being processed, food should not reach more than 2⁄3 of the way up the central hub of the blade assembly.

Note: Due to the powerful motor provided with this unit, Cuisinart recommends using one hand to support the Mini-Prep®Plus Processor during operation.

Selecting the Right Operating Control

Use the chop function for chopping, puréeing and mixing. It is the right choice, for example, for chopping soft, fragile food such as herbs, celery, onions, garlic and most cheeses. It is also the right choice for puréeing cooked veg- etables, making mayonnaise and mixing salad dressing.

Pulse action is best when you are using the chop function. Two or three pulses are often enough. Be sure to check the food frequently to prevent overprocessing. If you overprocess, you are likely to get a watery paste instead of a fine chop.

Use the grind function for grinding spices, and for chopping hard food such as peppercorns, seeds, chocolate and nuts.

Continuous-hold action is best when you are using the grind function. You may have to oper- ate the Mini-Prep®Plus Processor for several seconds with some food to achieve the desired results – as long as 20 seconds for some seeds.

When you operate the unit for more than 10 seconds, use a pulse action every 10 seconds or so to allow food to drop to the bottom of the work bowl. This provides more consistent results.

Never operate the Mini-Prep®Plus Processor continuously for longer than 1 minute at a time.

Note: The work bowl and cover may become scratched when you use them for grinding grain and spices. This does not affect the per- formance of the Mini-Prep®Plus Processor. However, you may want to reserve the original bowl for grinding, and purchase an additional bowl and cover set for other uses.

These are available from the Cuisinart Customer Service Department, which you can reach by dialing our toll-free number: 800-726-0190.

Adding Liquid

You can add liquids such as water, oil or flavoring while the machine is running. For example, you might want to add oil when mak- ing mayonnaise or salad dressing, or you could add vanilla or alcohol when making frozen yogurt.

Pour the liquid through one of the two openings in the cover.

IMPORTANT: Add liquid through only one opening at a time. The other opening must be left free to allow air to escape. If both openings are blocked, liquid cannot flow smoothly into the bowl.

Removing Food from the Sides of the Bowl

Occasionally food will stick to the sides of the bowl as you process. Stop the machine to clear food away. AFTER THE BLADE HAS STOPPED

MOVING, remove the cover, and use the spatula to scrape the food from the sides of the bowl back into the center. Do not put hands into bowl unless unit is unplugged.

PROCESSING FOOD

1.Place the work bowl firmly on the motor base and insert the blade assembly. Opening at back of bowl must face column at back of Mini-Prep®Plus Processor. Turn counter- clockwise to lock in place.

2.Place food in the work bowl. Be sure the food is cut in small pieces, and the bowl is not overloaded.

3.Lock the cover into position.

Note: Due to the powerful motor provided with this unit, Cuisinart recommends using one hand to support the Mini-Prep®Plus Processor during operation.

4.Press the appropriate Chop or Grind Control, depending on the food you are processing.

5.When you have finished processing the food, stop the machine by releasing the control button.

6.WHEN THE BLADE STOPS MOVING, remove the cover.

7.Unplug the unit.

8.Carefully remove the blade assembly, holding it by the handle on the top of the sheath. NEVER TOUCH THE BLADE ITSELF.

9.Remove food with the spatula.

Note: Do not operate Mini-Prep®Plus Processor without food contents in work bowl.

Tip: Process foods in order from dry to wet to avoid having to clean bowl and blade between each task.

N DLC2AL IB-5719C-ESP, DLC-2A Series, Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Processor specifications

The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Processor, DLC-2A Series, is an essential kitchen appliance designed for those who enjoy cooking but may not have the space for a full-sized food processor. This compact yet powerful processor is widely recognized for its efficiency and versatility, making it a popular choice among home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus is its powerful 250-watt motor, which provides enough strength to handle a variety of food preparation tasks. This ensures that users can chop, grind, and puree ingredients quickly and easily. This processor features a 3-cup bowl size, which is ideal for preparing small quantities, making it perfect for dips, dressings, salsas, and smaller meal prep needs.

The Mini-Prep Plus processor offers a simple, user-friendly design. It has a single touchpad control that allows users to switch between chop and grind functions seamlessly. The chop function is perfect for processing vegetables, fruits, and nuts, while the grind function is specifically designed for herbs, spices, and grains. This dual functionality caters to a wide range of culinary applications and simplifies the cooking process.

One significant advantage of this model is its stainless steel blade, which is both durable and efficient. The blade design ensures precision cutting and even processing, whether you're chopping onions or grinding spices. Additionally, the bowl's ergonomic shape allows for easy pouring and prevents food from getting stuck.

The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Processor boasts a compact design that makes it easy to store in kitchens with limited counter space. Its lightweight construction, coupled with a sleek profile, means it can be tucked away in cabinets or on shelves when not in use.

Safety is another important aspect of this processor. It features a safety lock mechanism that prevents the motor from running unless the bowl and lid are properly locked in place, ensuring peace of mind while using the appliance.

In summary, the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Processor, DLC-2A Series, is a versatile, efficient, and user-friendly kitchen tool that delivers excellent performance for a variety of food preparation tasks. With its powerful motor, compact design, stainless steel blade, and safety features, it is the perfect addition to any kitchen, especially for those who want to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing quality.