Breville Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor Review A Kitchen Essential

Description

Versatile Design and Build Quality

I’ve been using the Breville BFP660SIL Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor, Silver, and the first thing that grabbed my attention was its sturdy construction and sleek design. The silver finish feels modern and matches most kitchen aesthetics seamlessly. At 15.9 pounds, it’s hefty, but that weight contributes to its stability during operation, even when processing heavier ingredients. The dimensions (8.5″D x 7.52″W x 17.01″H) make it compact enough to fit on my countertop without taking up excessive space. It feels like it was designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind.

The 12-cup bowl capacity is perfect for larger families or batch cooking. I’ve used it for everything from chopping vegetables for a salad to kneading dough for bread, and the size never limits me. It also comes with interchangeable blades, which add versatility and ensure that even complex tasks like slicing or shredding are a breeze.

Key Benefits

• Sleek silver design that complements modern kitchens.
• Compact yet sturdy structure, ensuring minimal movement during use.
• Large 12-cup capacity for versatile cooking needs.
• Interchangeable S-Blade system makes it easy to switch between tasks.

Powerful Performance

The 1000-watt induction motor is, without a doubt, the star of the show. This food processor doesn’t stutter even when handling tougher ingredients like nuts or hard vegetables. The direct-drive system feels responsive and ensures consistent results every time. I’ve tried processing garlic, onions, and even making nut butter, and the results have been flawless.

One of my favorite features is the S-Blade system. The micro-serrated design ensures swift and even chopping, even for trickier ingredients. The motor also comes with overload protection, which gives me peace of mind when pushing it to its limits.

Good Aspects

• Heavy-duty induction motor ensures reliability and durability.
• Overload protection adds a layer of safety.
• Handles a variety of tasks with ease, from chopping to mixing.

Advanced Features for Everyday Cooking

The variable slicing disc is a game-changer for me. With 24 settings, I can adjust the thickness from a paper-thin 0.3mm to a hearty 8mm. This level of customization is something I didn’t realize I needed until I tried it. It makes prepping vegetables for salads or stews incredibly easy.

The multiple feed chute options—5″, 2 ¾”, and 1 ½”—are another feature that adds to its versatility. I no longer have to pre-cut everything into tiny pieces to fit the processor. Carrots, cucumbers, and zucchini slide in effortlessly, saving me time and effort.

The safety braking system is a thoughtful addition. I’m a bit clumsy in the kitchen, and knowing that the blades stop immediately if the lid is opened gives me a sense of security I didn’t know I needed.

Shortcomings

• The plastic blade material feels less premium compared to stainless steel options, which might affect durability over time.
• It’s not dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a bit more tedious.
• The weight (15.9 pounds), while great for stability, makes it harder to move around.

Drawbacks

• Blade material could be more durable.
• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning.
• Heavy design can be cumbersome for storage or portability.

Competing Products

In comparison to other food processors on the market, this one holds its ground quite well. For instance, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY, a popular competitor, offers a similar capacity and decent power. However, it lacks the level of customization in slicing thickness that the Sous Chef provides. The Breville also feels more robust in construction, whereas the Cuisinart tends to feel slightly less heavy-duty.

On the other hand, the KitchenAid KFP1133CU stands out in terms of brand reputation and offers dishwasher-safe components, which is a plus. However, it’s not as powerful as the Breville Sous Chef, and the motor doesn’t handle tougher ingredients as gracefully.

Where the Sous Chef excels is in its versatility and reliability. While it may not have the dishwasher-safe convenience of some competitors, its performance and customization options make it a standout choice for serious home cooks.

Smart Spending

When it comes to value, this food processor offers excellent performance for its price point. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the features and durability of the motor justify the investment. I consider it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen, especially for those who cook regularly and need a reliable tool that can handle a variety of tasks.

This isn’t the processor you’d buy if you’re just looking for a budget-friendly option. However, if you’re after quality, versatility, and long-term reliability, this model delivers and then some. It feels like a premium product, but without the excessive price tag that sometimes comes with that label.

Additional information