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A Kitchen Necessity - The Meat Slicer
Some kitchen appliances are easily overlooked, one of those being the meat slicer. Although many don't realize it, it can be numbered among the other essential appliances such as toasters, blenders, and even coffee makers. Someone who isn't experienced or educated about the conveniences that a meat slicer brings to everyday meals may not see all the many perks of owning one. In this article I will very simply explain why you may enjoy the addition of a meat slicer to your kitchen.
What is a meat slicer?
Most often meat slicers are used by professionals or commercially in delis. Nevertheless, there are still meat slicers for home use that are less pricey. There are two kinds of meat slicers, an electric or manual slicer. Manual slicers are less prevalent than electric slicers. This being because electric slicers are easier to use and maneuver. I will be talking mostly about electric slicers in my article. There are a variety of factors that determine the price of a meat slicer. A meat slicer for home use can cost anywhere from $50 to $500. This is not too expensive in contrast to commercial deli slicers, which are often thousands of dollars.
The many uses of a meat slicer
A meat slicer has a variety of different functions. The most obvious would be its capacity to slice all kinds of meats to any shape or thickness dependent upon your satisfaction. Salami, hams, roasts, jerky and anything in bulk can be sliced. As if that wasn't beneficial enough, meat slicers are also able to slice other foods such as vegetables, fruits, breads and cheeses. Because of the meat slicers flexibility, it allows for more creative and colorful snack and meal ideas for the family, as well as for any party dishes.
Electric meat slicers: how do they work?
Weighing approximately 30 lbs, meat slicers are fairly large and hefty machinery. They are powered by an electric motor, which spins a circular blade. The blade can have either a serrated or smooth edge to it. The meat or other food is placed on a sliding tray, known as the carriage. It is then manually slid toward the spinning blade to create the slices. The backplate aligns the food with the blade. This backplate is controlled by the knob, which determines the thickness of the slices.
What features to look for in your future meat slicer
* The power of the motor. Larger and tougher meats will require a more powerful motor whereas a simpler motor would be satisfactory for less hefty meats and foods.
* Blade size/diameter. Typically blades run between 6 to 9 inches. You will need a larger blade to cut larger meats. This would also require a larger motor.
* A blade sharpener that is built-in.
* A backplate that is sufficiently rigid. Flimsiness causes unevenness in the slices.
* Motor is continuous-running. If the meat slicer does not have this motor, you will only be able to slice for 10 minutes with about an hour of cool-off time imbetween sessions.
* Non-slip feet to stop the slicer from sliding around.
Determining what meat slicer is the best option for you
Lack of power and difficulty of cleaning are two major concerns of those looking to purchase a meat slicer. Depending how you will use your meat slicer, it's important to consider whether you will need a tougher or simpler slicer. Simple meat slicers are less expensive, so it's good to make sure you find the meat slicer that will be sufficient for your needs. Before making a purchase, it is always helpful to read up on user reviews as well.
What is a meat slicer?
Most often meat slicers are used by professionals or commercially in delis. Nevertheless, there are still meat slicers for home use that are less pricey. There are two kinds of meat slicers, an electric or manual slicer. Manual slicers are less prevalent than electric slicers. This being because electric slicers are easier to use and maneuver. I will be talking mostly about electric slicers in my article. There are a variety of factors that determine the price of a meat slicer. A meat slicer for home use can cost anywhere from $50 to $500. This is not too expensive in contrast to commercial deli slicers, which are often thousands of dollars.
The many uses of a meat slicer
A meat slicer has a variety of different functions. The most obvious would be its capacity to slice all kinds of meats to any shape or thickness dependent upon your satisfaction. Salami, hams, roasts, jerky and anything in bulk can be sliced. As if that wasn't beneficial enough, meat slicers are also able to slice other foods such as vegetables, fruits, breads and cheeses. Because of the meat slicers flexibility, it allows for more creative and colorful snack and meal ideas for the family, as well as for any party dishes.
Electric meat slicers: how do they work?
Weighing approximately 30 lbs, meat slicers are fairly large and hefty machinery. They are powered by an electric motor, which spins a circular blade. The blade can have either a serrated or smooth edge to it. The meat or other food is placed on a sliding tray, known as the carriage. It is then manually slid toward the spinning blade to create the slices. The backplate aligns the food with the blade. This backplate is controlled by the knob, which determines the thickness of the slices.
What features to look for in your future meat slicer
* The power of the motor. Larger and tougher meats will require a more powerful motor whereas a simpler motor would be satisfactory for less hefty meats and foods.
* Blade size/diameter. Typically blades run between 6 to 9 inches. You will need a larger blade to cut larger meats. This would also require a larger motor.
* A blade sharpener that is built-in.
* A backplate that is sufficiently rigid. Flimsiness causes unevenness in the slices.
* Motor is continuous-running. If the meat slicer does not have this motor, you will only be able to slice for 10 minutes with about an hour of cool-off time imbetween sessions.
* Non-slip feet to stop the slicer from sliding around.
Determining what meat slicer is the best option for you
Lack of power and difficulty of cleaning are two major concerns of those looking to purchase a meat slicer. Depending how you will use your meat slicer, it's important to consider whether you will need a tougher or simpler slicer. Simple meat slicers are less expensive, so it's good to make sure you find the meat slicer that will be sufficient for your needs. Before making a purchase, it is always helpful to read up on user reviews as well.
About the Author:
Christopher Handy is a renowned article writer and blogger. Visit his site to learn more about meat slicers for home use. Make sure to watch this excellent video on the best meat slicers.