So I officially put my order in for the new Cuisinart Elite Die-Cast Food Processor. It involves an unspecified waitlist-wait and an ominous phone call from the local W-S. Who knows how long this will take, and I'm practically foaming at the mouth for this one.
For those of you familiar with the old-school Cuisnarts, this handy guide (which I happen to think is a fabulous marketing tool...it's practically dripping with WIIFM, and it's audience-centered for those who only need to know "why it's BETTER than what I already have") should do all the convincing--8 new features.
Honestly I only need 3 of the new features to shell out $300 for this baby:
1. Three (count 'em 3) Bowl Sizes - I love my little Mini-Prep, but seriously, 24 ounces does not a true "food" processor make. I have a "sauce" processor and a "nut" processor, but nothing that in and of itself resembles a full serving of "food" comes out of my Mini-Prep, at least not in less than a few,messy batches. I've longed to upgrade for several months, and have often borrowed my friend J.'s Prep 11 Plus (a very strategic wedding gift from me to her, haha), but I still like how when I just need a little chop-chop, the smaller bowl on my Mini-Prep is perfect (and fits comfortably on my dishwasher's top-rack). So what's better than having two food processors, in appropriate sizes? Having one that does the work of a mini and a maxi. (Oh, and did I mention they are NESTING BOWLS, so yay for more cabinet/counter space for additionally fabulous small electrics!)
2. Spill-Proof Blending - I like to make saucy things in my food processor. With any older version, you get the "slosh factor," especially when you're pulsing. (Like, how many times in a row can I possibly fling some brightly-colored sauce base all over my kitchen counter? And do remember I have grouted tile countertops.) With a new rubber gasket on the lid, I have no fear of any "slosh factor." Bring it.
3. Cord Storage - Three words: Retractable Power Cord. 'Nuff said. (And for those anal-retentive kitchen-keepers out there, you don't need another reason, period.)
Given that there are 50 reviews on Williams-Sonoma's website (with an average rating of 4.9 stars), I think this is a true cook's tool, with a battery of new "revisions" to make this piece of equipment a beloved staple in a serious kitchen.
Let me know if anyone else has experiences with food processors and/or Cuisinart. Let's share the love!
