How To Puree in A Ninja Blender – 5 Second Guide

In this 5 second guide, we’ll give you pro tips on using your Ninja blender specifically for pureeing. From what vessels to use to how much liquid to add, read on for pureeing success with your Ninja!

Ninja Blender Pureeing

One of the first steps for pureeing in a Ninja blender is choosing the right vessel. Here are the best options:

Pitcher

The 72-ounce pitcher that comes with most Ninja blender models has plenty of room for pureeing batch recipes. Use the handled pitcher for larger quantities.

Single-Serve Cup

The single-serve cups are great for smaller portion purees. Use the to-go lids for on-the-go pureed drinks.

Food Processor Bowl

Models like the Ninja Foodi have a food processor bowl perfect for pureeing drier ingredients for baby foods, breadcrumbs, and more.

Sauce & Spread Cup

Some premium models include a sauce and spread cup. The angled blades provide extra efficiency for pureeing wet ingredients into smooth sauces.

Tip: Always leave at least 1-2 inches of headspace for ingredients to circulate while blending.

Prepping Ingredients for Pureeing

To ensure the smoothest purees, prep ingredients properly before blending:

• Cut ingredients into 1-2 inch pieces to allow for easier circulation and blending.
• Cook hard vegetables like carrots until fork tender before pureeing. They will blend more smoothly when softened.
• Consider peeling fibrous vegetables and fruits like celery, berries, and mangoes which tend to get stringy when blended with peels/skins intact.
• Place ingredients that puree most easily in the bottom of the vessel first, like cooked potatoes or soft fruits.
• Layer in harder items next, like raw carrots or unpeeled apples. This allows them to be gradually incorporated as the puree smooths out.

Proper prep makes pureeing a breeze!

Adding Liquid for Purees

Adding some liquid is key for pureeing many ingredients smoothly. Here are guidelines on liquid amounts:

• Fruits/veg: Use 1/4 to 1/2 cup liquid per 1 pound of solid ingredients. Fruit/veg juices, milk, broths all work well.
• Beans/legumes: Start with a 3:1 ratio of beans to water or broth, adjusting as needed.
• Meats: Add 2-3 tablespoons broth, milk, or oil per 1 pound of meat.
• Leafy greens: Use just enough water to help greens circulate in the blender, around 1/4 cup.
• Hot liquids: Allow to cool slightly before pureeing to prevent lid venting.

Add liquid gradually and blend, adjusting consistency as you go for the perfect puree texture.

Blending Tips for Smooth Purees

Follow these simple tips for the smoothest, lump-free purees:

• Start on a lower speed to break up large pieces, then increase speed once ingredients incorporate.
• Use the tamper to press chunks into the blades if needed, taking care not to hit the blades.
• Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed to redistribute ingredients.
• Add more liquid for a thinner puree, less for thicker.
• Blend for 1-2 minutes total, until uniformly smooth with no chunks remaining.
• For extra silky purees, strain through a fine mesh sieve after blending to catch any remaining bits.

Storing and Using Purees

Once blended:

• Use baby food purees promptly or freeze within 1-2 days. Freeze in ice cube trays or silicone molds for easy portioning.
• Store other purees refrigerated for 5-7 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
• Mix into soups, sauces, smoothies, baked goods, and more!

With these pro pureeing tips, you’ll be prepping smooth, creamy purees to use in all your favorite recipes with ease. Happy blending!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to puree cooked meat in a Ninja blender?

Trim meat and cut into 1-inch chunks before cooking until no longer pink. Allow meat to cool slightly, then add 2-3 Tbsp broth, milk, or oil per pound of meat to the blender and puree at high speed until completely smooth.

Can I puree hot ingredients in my Ninja blender?

Yes, but very hot liquids can cause the lid to vent and splatter, so allow liquids to cool slightly before pureeing. Start blending on low speed. Do not blend hot ingredients back-to-back to avoid overheating the motor.

Why are my purees coming out chunky?

This usually happens if ingredients are undercooked or not cut small enough prior to blending. Ensure veggies are tender before blending and cut all ingredients into 1-2 inch pieces. Use the tamper and scrape sides as needed while blending.

What is the difference between puree and sauce settings on some Ninja models?

The “puree” setting provides high power for thick and creamy textures. The “sauce” setting blends at a lower speed for lighter consistency sauces. Use puree for things like baby food, hummus, fruit purees. Use sauce for vinaigrettes, marinades, and thinner mixes.

Wrapping Up

Pureeing with a Ninja blender is easy with the right techniques. Cut ingredients into small, uniform pieces, add liquid as needed, start blending at low speeds, and gradually increase to high. Scrape down sides and use the tamper to ensure smooth results with no lumps. In just seconds, you can whip up perfect purees for soups, sauces, breadcrumbs, baby foods, and beyond using your Ninja blender!