Friday, February 3, 2012

HotMix Pro vs Thermomix TM31 vs Kenwood Cooking Chef Part 1

I will be writing some posts about the comparisons of the above machines. Since I started using the HotMix Pro, I have discovered some interesting comparsions that I desire to share with you all. I have decided to do this in parts, because there is a lot of information I would like to share with you and I don't want to overwhelm you in one post. I will begin this review with basic comparisons of the the three machines. The second part will be are more intense comparison of the Thermomixer TM31 vs the HotMix Pro machine. I will show you photos of what each machine looks like and my pros and cons for each machine. Lastly and most importantly, as I have a HotMix Pro  I will show you what you can achieve with it and why I think its the better machine than the Thermomixer TM 31

It seems from the response on my posts and the talk else where that the above three cooking machines are the ones that most people are talking about. Naturally, for those that care to know, TM 31 gets a lot of recognition and discussion because it targets the mum-chef market via party plan. The demonstration party shows you how to make an entree, main, salad, bread rolls, and dessert all in the one machine within the hour. Its rather impressive and most women are in awe of the machine by the end of the demonstration and impulsively begin thinking or rationalising how and why they need the machine day/night or when they will hold their own party to take advantage of the gifts they supply if you do so. However, one should be conscious of whether this truly is the only machine like this available in the market. Once upon a time Thermomix was loving the attention and sales because there was nothing else really like it on the market, either in party plan or commercially. However I am please to inform you all, that Thermomix needs to worry because they are no longer lone rangers on the market. There are more machines popping up that compare and even are better than the TM 31. I have written a few blog posts already about thermal cooking machines so please feel free to take a look at those. Once you have done that sit down with your cuppa and read on to see what else is available.

I have had the pleasure of using the HotMix Pro and I love it!! HotMix Pro is fairly new to the Australian market. The Hotmix Pro machines are designed and made in Italy, so you can be assured of quality. The TM 31, is German designed, but made in France. Since using this machine I have discovered there are many great features that make HotMix Pro better than the TM 31 and the Kenwood Cooking Chef.

I won't harp on too much about the fact that you don't have to have a party to purchase a HotMix Pro machine. Just contact them(in your own country) and they will get you in contact with your local state rep. The NSW rep is Ralph Goodwin, who is lovely and will help you out with no worries at all. Stewart Fruhwald is the Natioanl/Victoria contact and you can also purchase HotMix pro in New Zealand. All other countries can make enquiries via the worldwide page at www.hotmixpro.com.

HotMix Pro provide two different machines depending on your needs. The two models are HotMix Pro Easy, and HotMix Pro Gastro. To get an idea of the difference between the two Hotmix models you need to work what you need it for.  If you are a home chef and are considering a Kenwood Cooking Chef or a Thermomixer TM 31, then the HotMix Easy model is for you. However, if you own a restaurant, catering business etc then the Gastro model is more on your end of the market. That being said, there is nothing stopping the home chef purchasing the Gastro. If cooking is your passion, there are some great features on the Gastro that would benefit you, however it is a little more expensive.  I have done a basic comparison checklist to give you an idea on what each machine offers and for what price.


Hotmix Pro Easy
Max Temp: 25-130C
Motor: 1200W
RPM: 10000
Bowl Capacity: 2 Litres
Price : $1895 + GST
TM 31
Max Temp: 37-100C
Motor: 500W
RPM: 10200
Price: $1939
HotMix Pro Gastro
Max Temp: 25-190C
Motor: 1500W
RPM: 12500
Bowl Capacity: 2 Litres
Price: $2395 + GST

Kenwood Cooking Chef
Max Temp: 20 - 140C
Motor: 1500W (1100W induction cooking system)
Bowl Capacity: 6.7 Litres (3 L for cooking)
Price: $1999


From first glance, they all seem fairly comparable except for the fact that the HotMix Pro machines and the Kenwood Cooking Chef have a more powerful motor in comparison to the TM31. To truly compare the HotMix Pro machine with the TM 31 I used a TM 31 recipe book and I discovered I was using lower speeds on the HotMix pro and getting the same results and in some cases mixing or grinding in shorter time and cooking on lower temperatures because I can change the temperatures by 1C.  You will also notice that the maximum temperatures are much higher in the HotMix Pro machines compared to the TM 31. I feel it very important to emphasize that the increments of temperature on the HotMix Pro machines go up by 1C which is important in achieving results for some recipes such as caramelising sugars. Textures and tastes of meals can be enhanced if you have control over how your food is cooked and this is something that the TM 31 can not do. 

For me the major draw card for the Kenwood Cooking Chef was the capacity bowl and the fact that you can cook a larger sized meal in the one bowl and make 6L of ice cream in the one bowl at the one time. However the main draw back for the Kenwood is that you are limited to what you can achieve with the machine by what attachments you do or don't have. If you want to juice your fruit, you have to buy an attachment. If you want to grind, that's another attachment, if you want to make a smoothie or milkshake, again its another attachment. The point of the other machines is that you have it all in the one machine.  I am not sure that the Kenwood's blender attachment could achieve grinding ice , wheat or,  sugar in the same speed and fineness like the other machines could either. So this is where I must say adieu to the Kenwood Cooking Chef! I am sure you are a great and fascinating machine, but you can't compare in as many ways as the others do.

So now I am down to the Thermomixer TM 31 and the HotMix Pro machines. This is where it gets intense and specific. My next installment will have photos and because I have used both machines, I can tell you what the pros and cons are for each.



63 comments:

kv015 said...

There is another machine out there that is worth mentioning. It is the ThermoChef. I have one and have been cooking ThermoMixer recipes in it without any problems. I love it and use it several times every day. I have made bread, pesto, steamed meatballs and chicken, mixed cakes and sauces, ground spices, blended incredible smoothies and made delicious custard to name just a few. The really good news is that it costs under $800.00 including shipping and comes with a 2 year warranty and fantastic customer service.

George said...

There has been a comparison done already on the Thermochef elsewhere on the foodmuster blog. check out this link, second review down http://welfarewisdom.blogspot.com.au/search/label/Thermomix

Anonymous said...

Hi,
Just to let you know the figures you have for the motor on TM31 aren't correct - 500W is what it operates at when the heating elelment is not being used. There is an additional 1000W when the heating element is used, so 1500W in total.

FoodMuster said...

kv015, thanks for your comment. As George said there is already a post done on the ThermoChef. I have not added it to this comparison because I don't believe it is in the same category, that being said, if you are after a basic machine with similar functions, for a price that suits your budget, then yes, that is the machine for you. The whole argument about the reverse mixing that the Thermomixer does, in my opinion is irrelevant and at the end of the day is a selling point that they like to use. As is the energy saving. Purchasing a cooking machine is an investment and now there is more to choose from, do the research. You need to purchase the right one that is well made, does everything you want and need it to. My next review will be a more in depth comparison with the TM 31 and my choice the Hotmix Pro. From what I understand the TM 31 is the most popular cooking machine on the market and I want people to know that there are better machines available. I did the research and discovered this.

Anonymous said...

The additional 1000W if for heating not the motor.

Anonymous said...

The Tm31 actually heats to 114o (Varoma temp). Cooking at any higher temp than this you start cooking all of the nutrients out of the food.

FoodMuster said...

To address the last comment. The higher cooking temperature means you can cook/make things that can't be achieved in the Thermomix. If you don't want to cook out nutrients, you don't have to the machine is very flexible that way!

Teresa said...

Hi!
There is a new hotmix pro, the hotmix gastro creative!Check out this link http://www.hotmixpro.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=179&Itemid=92&lang=en
Max Temp: -24ºC - 190ºC
23 velocities
Price: about $4000
I have a taurus mycook 59+, and a like it very much!
Teresa

Mandy said...

I am in the process of looking at purchasing one of these machines. Really appreciate the benefit of your experience and comments. Looking forward to reading more posts about the comparison.

Stewart said...

Thanks for your comments Teresa, as I am the rep for the importer of HotMixPRO, the Creative models will be released later this year and the pricing that you mention is an indication only. We have not set any pricing as yet, but the specifications are correct, being able to chill down to -24 and cook at temperatures of up to 190°C.

I am looking forward to having a play when my trial unit arrives in the next few weeks.

Stewart said...

Hi Mandy, If you would like to have a look at a HotMixPRO let me know, I will see what I can do..... Stewart

ecb said...

The TMX has a different motor to all the others so comparing wattage is not an apples with apples comparison. The RPM is a much better way to see which is more powerful. The Hotmixpro wins BUT it costs you another 1000W in electricity to get that extra 2.5k RPM and a motor with moving parts etc. Whereas the TMX motor has no moving parts and a virtually limitless lifespan. Hotmixpro sounds like a pretty decent competitor, though. Go good competition!!!

George said...

Please excuse my ignorance ECB, but how would a motor "with no moving parts" be able to drive the TMX?, the 1000watts issue is neither here or there as the Hotmix is a faster machine and the cost of the 1000 watts over say 10n seconds at max speed would be less than 1 cent, I dont even think that it would register

Anonymous said...

I've just discovered TM31 myself and have been to 2x demos. I'm very interested in your research and blog - many thanks.
As I understand it, the TM31 has a reluctance motor which operates via magnetic fields. Thus it is a very simple construction of a rotor and stator (without all the other moving parts of a standard motor). This explains the low (500W) energy to drive it, and reduces the need for replacement motor parts.
What type of motor does the ProMix Easy have?
Where do I find your next blog installment?
Many thanks again

Anonymous said...

Hahaha...oh dear, I meant HotMix Pro easy.... Oops

The Bush Gourmand said...

Yes, I'm interested in the answer to that question posed by anonymous.
What type of motor does the HotMix Pro have?
I must say, I don't like the name "Hot Mix". That's what's used on roads...

Stewart said...

Hi Meagan, thanks for your comments on both blogs, with the name HotmixPRO. The name is the name, its correct name is HotmixPRO and not Hot Mix.

A few question up this page there is a question by Anonymous, which states that the TMX motors have "no moving parts" this comment goes against physics, if the motor did not move then there would be no TMX as the blades would not spin, the motor in the HMP is of a tried and tested design, a brushed motor as opposed to the TMX which has a brush-less motor. The benefit of a brush-less motor is that you don't need to replace the brushes.

In saying this I have many appliance which have a brushed motor including fans both conventional and in air-conditioners, like I am sure that you have, and in the time that these unit run , which have been many hundreds of hours I have never had to replace the brushes.

I honestly believe that there is no argument on what technology is employed in the motor, the HMP is manufactured in Italy by a specialist electric motor manufacturer.

curious said...

Wow, The Bush Gourmand just signed my deal. After researching now for a good few months, checking out both machines, going on forums, querying some who have had both in Europe - the HMP has come out on top. Look forward to my purchase.

Stewart said...

Hi Curious am glad that you have done your homework and made your comparisons on both machine.

Which state are you in so that I can suggest our dealer.

Thanks again

Stewart 0408 132 680 said...

I am happy for this week (finishing on the 04/05/2012) to offer a FREE extra bowl with every order of the Gastro model. This is while stocks last, and will be a first in basis. Our dealers listing is on our website under "Contact Us", let the dealer know that you saw this offer on the Foodmuster Blog.

Stewart 0432 102 680

The Bush Gourmand said...

I'll be very interested to see how this machine lasts.
I've had my TMX for over 4 years and it hasn't missed a beat.
I don't really that one machine is better than the other, but I do like that there is fantastic customer service with the TMX.
I have to add that I've just become a consultant, so I'm VERY biased!!

Anonymous said...

i have owned a hotmixpro since last summer - one of the first off the assebly line. fantastic machine. much more versatile than tmx which i also considered. more robust with stainless steel body. made for restaurant kitchen. can also save your own recipes onto the sd card, which has over 100 recipes already stored. it gets my vote.

Anonymous said...

Just to clarify too, TM31 doesn't have 'no moving parts' but what I think they were trying to say is its frictionless. None of the moving parts within the motor touch which means nothing heats up/wears out over time.
Michelle

Marie said...

I'm very interested to know where you did find a kenwood cooking chef in Canada, I'm looking for it everywhere...

Anonymous said...

Hmmm methinks anonymous is Thermomix HQ...as for the Thermochef...have you tried to get the lid on and off...bit of a challenge. The Hot Mix pro sounds great with higher temperature. One day will upgrade from my TM31, which I love but it does have it's limits. Does not do smoothies nearly as well as a Vita mix, but then the Vitamix does not cook. Would love a gadget that does all this plus freezes as it churns.

Anonymous said...

The no moving parts is because it is run by magnets. It does not wear out and has not rubbing parts or things touching or grinding against each other.

Anonymous said...

Hi All, I stand by what I have previously stated re the Reluctance motor.

It is BS that there are no moving parts. The only difference is that the rotors are configured differently as opposed to a standard brushed motor.

The reluctance motor works on a principle of electromagnet where the field pushes the rotor, the rotor in turn is connected to the shaft and then makes contact through a set or bearings which are usually located top and bottom of the rotor, which in turn turns the blade of the machine.

The brushed motor works by a electrical connection via what are called brushes, these charge the windings on the rotor which in turn spin the rotor again through a bearing top and bottom.

Both technologies have friction points in the bearings, and both have contact with other parts. The brushed type motor has the brushes hovering above the rotor, the brushes over time do wear out, in saying that how often have you had to change the brushes in your air conditioner fan or drill?

Follow the link for an animation on a reluctance motor: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXJUYumwh-k

An animation on the Standard Brushed Motor
http://www.townbiz.com/animations/brush_motor.html

Anonymous said...

Further to the comment above, if there where no friction points then perpetual motion would be a possibility, but until we can remove friction from the equation, there is no such thing as a electric motor without any moving parts, it is impossible.

More info on perpetual Motion
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perpetual_motion

Finally some good competition said...

Great to see great competition for the TMX and more quality machines coming on the market. I have a thermochef, which I love... But will save up for a HMP gastro!

Thanks for reviewing.

Anonymous said...

I believe that TM31 will be upgrading soon, probably the temperature, speed and functions. As consumers, we forever cannot get the best machine in the market as machines are upgrading due to the market trend. I have been using TM31 for more than 1 year and I found that I cant cook without it, save electricity $$ and speed.

Ani Pema Lhamo said...

Hello, did you know that Target has put out its own version? It's called a Bellini and at the moment at the Target store near me it costs $329. Target made a big mistake because when they made the recipe book to go with the Bellini they copied the Thermomix book and forgot to remove the word Thermomix in several places!!!

FoodMuster said...

Hi Ani, I am aware of the Bellini and a friend who also has a TM31 purchased one to see the comparison. Their view, was that is not on a competitive level to the TM31, but perhaps more so to the ThermoChef. It is a similar model to the TM21, but is not the best quality from first glance, as I have seen it. That being said, it will fill a gap for consumers who don't want to spend the big $$ as it will cook and it does blend but I would say its not in the same league as the TM 31 and HMP. As for ripping off the TMX cookbook, I did hear that and my friend mention this to me! I'm sure Target can't be blamed for this, rather Bellini should be and a slap of the wrists for being so blantant about it!!

FoodMuster said...

I do understand that TM does have a good network and online community set up, they have been working on this for many years. Most of the recipes you use for the TMX 31 can be adapted to the HMP with ease. I am always happy to answer questions and provide support to anyone who has an HMP as is anyone from HotMix Pro. So don't worry about lack of support, its just a matter of time before a common network is established for HMP.

Stewart said...

Another source of info regarding recipes is at tenina.com. Tenina is adding to her website over time a range of recipes specifically written for the HMP.

Roy said...

Okay, just a few clarifications. Clearly the "no moving parts" was a mistake. In the TM31 there are no brushes, belts or gears - which is the most likely place for wear and tear.

This review seems to be non-objective considering there were mistakes to the max temperature of the TM31 and the motor wattage.

What concerns me most though is the way the prices have been layed out:
HMP-E $1895 + GST = $2084.50
HMP-G $2395 + GST = $2634.50
TM = $1939
KCC = $199

Did you notice the "+ GST" which makes the price look smaller? I don't care if the HMP *is* in fact the best machine, but it looks awfully biased to me. These little things greatly affect the trust factor.

FoodMuster said...

Hi Roy, thanks for your comments. In reponse to the mistakes about the wattage and temp of the TM31, that you will have to take up with Thermomix Australia, as that was my resource for the figures. Yes, with the GST, the machines is slightly higher than the TMX31,it is clear for all to add those figures together. I would have happily added the pre GST price for the other machines, if I knew them. Its just so everyone knows what the pre GST price, just some bonus info. I will note that the KCC while its base rate is $1999 you may need to purchase a number of add-ons if you want it to blend or dice for example like the TMX 31 or the HMP can do. Basically the KCC's (without add-ons)best competitor is the Kitchen Aid, not so much the HMP or the TMX. As for the bias comment. Well, I do admit that I much prefer the HMP and I do compare the two machines with the emphasis as to why I preferred the HMP. You do have to admit, that while I make these points clear, I do maintain that the TM31 is a good machine.

Anonymous said...

We have a small business and although the HotMixPro Creative/Gastro would be perfect for us (it can also make ice-cream), I'm a little concerned about the support we might get after we buy the machine given that the sales guy has cancelled or "forgotten" about our demo appointment twice. Good luck trying to get them to come out to see us after they have our $4k.

FoodMuster said...

Have you contacted someone via the HotMix Pro Australia website, if that is where you are located? I can't comment on your experience of a cancelled appointment, but I know they are working hard to develop an HMP community so you have many users to learn from and with. I know there is a forum that you can register with via the website, you can express your experience there too and I am sure someone will follow that up. It really is a great machine and I have never had any issues with replies to my questions.

Anonymous said...

Has anyone had experience with the Taurus MiniCook or MyCook? The thing that attracts me to this machine is the inbuilt scales and that it cooks via induction.

Anonymous said...

I'm thinking this is a totally biased forum and not worth even following !!

FoodMuster said...

Ok Anonymous, don't follow, that's no worries for me. I freely express my opinion on my blog and I allow others to express theirs via comments. However, if you think this is too biased for you, then I would strongly recommend you don't head over to the thermomix forums - I you might metaphorically die over there!!!

Unknown said...

Hey FoodMuster,

Just to encourage you not to worry about these defensive TM users and their comments- they accuse you of being biased but its funny how they are being so biased and upset themselves, when you are just being very honest and using hard facts to lay out your comparison (painstaking I gotta say!) of these machines for the benefit of those who don't own any of them.

You GO GIRL( or guy! Lol!)!! I couldn't sleep last night because I was dreaming about the HMP!! Lol!

Anonymous said...

Lets compare this properly shall we?

TM31
Motor: 500kw
Heating System: 1000kw
Mixing Bowl Max capacity 2.0 Litres
Max Temp:114
RPM:10,200
Price: 1939 (included gst)
Engineered in Germany, Assembled in France.
Features: Reverse speed with a blunt blade for stirring, Integrated scales, External Steamer basket (Varoma), Internal steamer basket, Gearless reluctance motor, One blade (even for milling), One Butterfly attachment, Spatula


HMP Gastro
Motor: 1500w
Heating System: 800w
Mixing Bowl Max capacity 2.0 Litres
Max Temp:190
RPM: 12500
Price:?
European engineered and manufactured in Italy
Features: Wait temperature, Delayed start, Repeat, Internal steaming only, One standard Blade (a milling blade is also required if you choose to mill), one paddle

Stewart @ HotmixPRO AU said...

TM31 = Domestic, CE certified for Domestic usage. 10 x 10 Temp control, NON programmable, non insulated jug area, non lockable M/C, 96dB @ speed 8

Gastro = Commercial CE Certified Commercial usage. Degree by Degree temp control, Programmable, can switch off blades entirely, fully insulated jacketed jug area, lockable M/C, 92dB @ speed 8 $2745.00 INC GST

Jen said...

Has anyone done a comparison of the capabilities of the TM, the HotmixPro and the Kenwood Cooking Chef specifically for whipping egg-whites for meringue - for example, do you get the same volume of whipped white with all three machines?
I have an older Kenwood Chef plus a TM31, but always use the Kenwood Chef to whip whites because I don't trust the TM31 to produce as much end product as the Kenwood Chef does, but, er, I admit I have not yet actually tried the TM for whipping whites - for two reasons; I am put off by knowing what a great job the Kenwood does for whipping eggwhites, plus inserting the whipping attachment into the TM31, as I have tried to do when making soup, seems to have a bit of a knack to it that I have not mastered. (When I do it the darn thing usually comes loose again so obviously I am not getting it attached correctly in the first place.)
I am considering buying either a Kenwood Cooking Chef or a HotMix Pro but am uncertain which to get. The HotMix Rro would be able to cook things that are not possible in the TM31 so that makes it very attractive, but with me as the operator, it too may have the whipping insert problem - plus when I cook soup or risotto in the TM31 it always sticks on the bottom of the container, so although the end product is good, it is less trouble to cook it in a saucepan and not have the hassle of trying to get the TM bowl clean.
Of course the sticking-on-the-bottom-of-the-bowl thing may happen with the Cooking Chef and HM Pro too, and as mentioned above, the problem with the whipping insert may also happen with the HotMix Pro, so that is of some concern.
Another concern I have about the HotMix Pro is that in the video clips I've watched of people using it, it seems to need quite a degree of force to close the lid fastenings. As I have damaged shoulders and weak wrists to boot, I cannot use much force at all.
BTW When is the HotMix Pro that also freezes to be released in Australia?
Jen

FoodMuster said...

Hi Jen, thanks for your comment. I have used the HMP for whipping egg whites and I was really happy with my results. I made macrons and for the first time in my life, they worked and it was the first time I made them with the HMP - I was so happy and they whip up so fast too! As for your whipping attachment, in relation to HMP, you just have to push it on so that it kinda 'clicks' not really that sound, but you get the gist. As with the lid, it can take a little getting used to - not too dissimilar to what I hear about the TM 31. I got it worked out by about a month or so of using it and I love how you can lift the lid and it holds on to one side so it doesn't have to come of completely. I hope this helps with your queries about the HMP. Since I don't own the Kenwood I can't say, but a friend has the model below, that doesn't cook, and she raves about how well it whips egg whites. I think it may come down to which machine will do all the things you would like it to. As I have mentioned in my posts, the HMP is very versatile and can do things that the Kenwood can't. As for risotto, yes it sometimes gets a bit stuck to the bottom, like porridge does, but I find the HMP easy to clean so it doesn't bother me much and prefer to clean the bowl rather than cook on the stove! If you want to find out more about the freezing machine, fill out an enquiry form by pressing the HMP ad on the right side bar.

Jen said...

Hi FoodMuster,
Thanks for the informative reply. I think the HMP gastro might be the way to go for me - if I can think up an imaginative enough excuse to spend that much money. The fact that you can position the temperature so exactly and that it goes up to 190C makes it the most versatile of the three machines. The HMP Creative is not here yet anyway and I understand will be much more expensive than are the other two HMPs.
Jen

Anonymous said...

Does the HMP Gastro run on 120V 60Hz?

Thanks!

Dr. Michael G. Mathews said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

I asked previously, which I note my comment/question has not been published, but are you receiving any benefits, financial or otherwise, from your promotion of the Hotmixpro? I suspect the answer is yes, otherwise my question would have been posted and you would have replied.

Anonymous said...

You may want to check your facts before you post, person above....

check this link and foodmusters comment at the bottom.... your answer is there!!

http://welfarewisdom.blogspot.com.au/2012/02/hotmix-pro-vs-thermomix-tm-31-part-2.html

Anonymous said...

It is quite funny to read the different comments about which one is better. It's like comparing an Alfa Romeo to a BMW. You can't. I personally appreciate both Italian and German models but they can't be compared even though they both to be driven on the same roads. They are what they are. You chose by your preference. HMP is better for one person and TMX is better for another. No to mention the other brands. Seriously, why argue? It's like children trying to decide whose Barbie doll is prettier. No-one needs to justify their decision, especially not to the other person, who chose differently.
Nyika

FoodMuster said...

Nyika, thanks for your comment. I do agree with you and I have tried to express this as best I can in most of my comments on the other reviews. I have simply shared my opinion and I strongly suggest everyone else does their research. I still think you can compare any two items you are considering purchasing - don't we always? My reviews are simply my opinion on what I have experienced with the two machines. I went to numerous TMX parties and many family members and friends have purchased one. I was almost convinced in purchasing one until I realised there were other machines available. So I did the research and chose what I did. I never intended to have any kind of argument, just express my opinion. It has been an interesting ride since I've written these reviews and the varying responses I have got!

Anonymous said...

FoodMuster is clearly biased! You can't compare the HotMix Pro to the Thermomix. Your 'facts' are to skewed that it is irritating to read. Nothing beats German technology!!

FoodMuster said...

Um, Anonymous, you think I am biased? If you can make a comment like, "Nothing beats German technology" how can you then criticise me and say I am biased?

Anonymous said...

Hi FoodMuster, thanks for your comparisons on all machines... My big question and number one concern for me is the use of plastic when cooking... I know the thermomix has a plastic lid and steamer and even though they say it's bpa free, from previous research into companies that claim this, they only replace the BPA with equally toxic substances. Does the hot mix pro have a plastic lid too? The Kenwood Cooking chef doesn't seem too?...do you know at all?...I can't even see that it uses a lid? Do you need to use the plastic lid supplied with the thermomix and hotmix? Have also since heard that even stainless steel leaks metals into food when heated so I try to use glass as much as i can when cooking but as they are all stainless steel, I would definitely prefer to go for the option without plastic (whether company believes it to be safe or not). Thanks

Anonymous said...

Have since found out that the kenwood also uses a plastic cover and lid, which is optional to use. So I guess I'm wondering does the lid have to be used in thermomix and hotmix pro cooking?

FoodMuster said...

The HMP has a plastic lid like the TMX. Both machines have to cook with the lids on. I know for the HMP as a safety feature, it will only work if the lid is clicked into place for any function whether it be blending,grinding or cooking. You would really want the lid on once you see what the blades can do to a carrot! The Kenwood I would say has the lid for splattering because it doesn't have inbuilt blades like the HMP and TMX.
I understand your concerns for the use of plastic, however I do personally believe that it is the best material for this type of product.

Anonymous said...

Interesting you talk about temperatures
114 degrees which is varoma on tmx31 is the safest high temp before you get noxious gases being emitted
So by all means cook on your high temp machine and inhale away
Here's to your good health

FoodMuster said...

Um, I am not quite sure where you a missing the point! Firstly, I would really like to see some scientific evidence about this safe temp of 114degress before those terrible noxious gases are emitted. From the food or the stainless steel bowl I must also ask?
Secondly, and I will make this clear yet again, you don't have to cook absolutely everything on a high temperature. Somethings you have to cook on high temperatures otherwise they won't cook and get the desired result, just like on your stove top or if you boil water in a kettle. Please read the facts in my posts before you jump all over me with regurgitated babble from your consultants!

Jaahda Jinnah said...

Sorry - I haven't yet read through all the comments to see if my question has been addressed but please forgive me as it is an unusual one.

I have been a Naturopath for over 30 years now and am somewhat used to 'food machines'. When I encountered the TM at a friend's demo about 4 years ago as it was becoming popular I was impressed by its raw foods abilities.

However my main concern and subsequent research centred around one point which I had extreme difficulty in finding any information on; that being HOW does the TM cook?

In other words does it use "waves" of any kind. I still don't ever use microwaves and I have read of negative health affects from using induction cooking.

What I would particularly like to see is reputable information regarding losses of nutrient integrity across a range of raw foods, ie grain flours, nut butters, raw salads etc.

I'd like to see data regarding nutrient losses and enzyme breakdowns.

The TM seems to really have captured itself a good reputation in preparing raw foods but, please - show me some figures to justify this position.

Thanks.

Anonymous said...

hi Jaahda - did you resolve your question regarding how both the TM or the HotmixPro actually cook? I know nearly two years have past! I have the same concerns and am also struggling to find more information

Dee said...

I have Kenwood Cooking Chef, HotmixPro Gastro XL and Cook Expert (Magimix) - but not the Thermomix TM6 which my cousin has and I have used it when I have been to hers. I use the Kenwood Cooking Chef the least. The Cook Expert is a recent addition but I already use it a lot. However for sauces, nothing beats HotmixPro. The smoothness of everything is sublime. Somehow, everything appears to taste better as well. However it is not easy to use. My wife finds it impossible to understand the menu even after all these years whereas she is already using the Cook Expert.

Compare three items:
1) custard
HotmixPro: A+++
Cook Expert: A-
Kenwood: C-
2) Hollandaise
HotmixPro: A+++
Cook Expert: B+
Kenwood: D
3) Bread Dough
HotmixPro: C
Cook Expert: B+
Kenwood: A+++

The in durability, Hotmix has a chain drive. It is built like a tank. Kenwood is magnesium alloy and very good. It could have been better than Hotmix - however, its gear train needs re-tightening every 2 years! It also seems to break if you train it with regular dough mixing like I did. Cook Expert advertises brioche making ability, however, it simply cannot beat Kenwood. You can even monitor temperature of dough to make sure your kneading is not generating too much heat!! Also, if you like making pasta then definitely Kenwood is useful. However, it is quite rubbish at sauces. They simply are not smooth. HotmixPro shines as a machine for serious chefs. Die to the large bowl, Cook Expert can miss some smaller lumps during sauce making. Hope this post helps others. I will try to make a comparison video on my EmDee Coffee channel on YouTube.

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