Breville Sous Chef 12 Food Processor Review Unveils Powerful Precision and Versatility

Description

Strengths of the Breville Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor

The Breville BFP660SIL Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor shines with its heavy-duty induction motor that delivers powerful and consistent performance. This kitchen workhorse, boasting a 1000-watt motor, tackles everything from slicing and shredding to kneading dough without faltering. The S-Blade system impressed me with its micro-serrated edges that chopped garlic, nuts, and vegetables quickly and evenly every time. I especially appreciated the variable slicing disc offering 24 settings—from wafer-thin 0.3mm slices to chunky 8.0mm cuts—giving me total control over my food prep.

Another plus is the three feed chute options: a large 5-inch, mid-sized 2 ¾ inch, and a mini 1 ½ inch chute. These prevented awkward tipping when feeding carrots or other oddly shaped veggies, making the whole process smoother and safer. The safety braking system was a thoughtful feature too, instantly stopping the blades if the lid was opened unexpectedly. This gave me peace of mind, especially with kids around who love to hover near the kitchen counter.

• Powerful 1000-watt induction motor for reliable performance
• Versatile slicing disc with 24 adjustable thickness settings
• Multiple feed chutes for handling various ingredient sizes
• Safety braking system adds an extra layer of protection

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many boons, the Sous Chef 12 isn’t without flaws. The item weight of 15.9 pounds means it’s quite hefty, which makes moving or storing it a bit of a chore. I found that it takes up significant counter space due to its dimensions (8.5″ D x 7.52″ W x 17.01″ H), so if your kitchen is on the smaller side, this processor could feel cumbersome. It’s also worth noting that, although some parts are dishwasher safe, the main bowl and blade assembly require careful handwashing, which adds to cleanup time.

The plastic blade material felt a little less robust compared to metal blades I’ve used before, leading me to question its long-term durability despite the 10-year motor warranty. Also, the price point is on the higher end of the spectrum, which might deter budget-conscious buyers even though the unit offers a lot of features.

• Heavy and bulky, making storage and handling somewhat inconvenient
• Main components require handwashing, increasing cleanup effort
• Plastic blades may not feel as sturdy as metal alternatives
• Premium price may not suit all budgets

Versatility and Performance in Everyday Use

Using this food processor daily, I discovered that it truly excels at precision food preparation. From chopping onions without the usual tears to shredding cheese for homemade pizza, the appliance handled it all with ease. The variable slicing disc was a game-changer during meal prep, especially when I needed thin cucumber slices for salads or thicker cuts for gratins. I also tested the dough-kneading function, and it performed surprisingly well, producing smooth, elastic dough without overworking it.

The multiple feed chute sizes facilitated quick additions of ingredients without needing to stop and adjust awkwardly. This feature saved me plenty of hassle, especially when multitasking with other meal components. My family enjoyed watching the speedy transformations from raw veggies to perfectly chopped additions in seconds, making cooking together more interactive and less of a mess.

Product Comparisons with Popular Competitors

In comparison to other popular food processors like the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY or the KitchenAid 13-Cup model, this processor stands out for its induction motor and extensive slicing options. The motor doesn’t overheat after heavy use, unlike some rivals that slow down or stall. Although the Cuisinart offers a slightly larger bowl capacity, it lacks the multiple chute sizes and the safety braking system, which I found crucial for peace of mind.

The KitchenAid model has stronger metal blades and a more compact design, making it better suited for smaller kitchens, but it doesn’t match the Breville’s precision slicing range or motor durability. For someone prioritizing power, safety, and versatile slicing, the Sous Chef 12 holds an edge despite its size and weight. However, if counter space or budget is a concern, the alternatives might appeal more.

Price to Quality Ratio

Evaluating the price performance, this food processor feels like a solid investment for anyone who regularly cooks and values reliability. It’s not the cheapest appliance, but it offers a premium build and features that justify the cost for serious home cooks. The 10-year warranty on the motor adds to the value, indicating confidence in the machine’s longevity.

Some might balk at the initial price tag, yet the combination of power, safety, and versatility delivers worth every penny in my experience. Comparatively, cheaper models often compromise on motor strength or slicing precision, which can lead to frustration down the line. If your kitchen demands a robust processor that handles a variety of tasks efficiently, this unit is a worthwhile contender.

User Experience and Practical Features

Operating the food processor was straightforward, thanks to well-labeled controls and the intuitive design. The clear lid and wide feed chutes made it easy to monitor progress and add ingredients on the fly. While the dishwasher-safe components were convenient for parts like the slicing discs, the main bowl needed gentle handwashing to maintain its clarity and prevent scratches.

My kids enjoyed helping me use the mini chute for smaller items, turning cooking into a fun family activity. However, assembling and disassembling the parts required some care and attention, especially aligning the blade correctly to avoid accidents. The overall user-friendly experience made this processor a reliable kitchen companion, though not entirely foolproof for novices.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite its many positive traits, the processor’s weight and size can be a real hurdle in tight kitchens or for people with limited countertop space. The plastic blades also raise questions about long-term durability, especially if you frequently process hard items like nuts or ice. Additionally, the cleaning routine demands more effort than some competitors due to non-dishwasher-safe parts.

The premium price tag may be a sticking point for those who only need occasional food processing or simpler functionality. It’s a powerful machine, but not everyone requires all the bells and whistles, which might make more basic models a better fit for casual users.

• Considerable size might not suit small kitchens
• Plastic blades could wear faster with heavy use
• Cleaning requires manual effort for primary components
• Higher cost might not be justified for infrequent use

The Breville Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor stands out as a powerful, versatile, and precise kitchen tool with a few practical limitations, making it ideal for those who demand performance and safety in their food prep routine.

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