Can You Really Juice with a Blender?
The question of whether a standard blender can function as a juicer is common, particularly for those seeking a more versatile kitchen appliance or facing budget constraints. While a blender doesn't operate on the same principle as a centrifugal or masticating juicer – which separate liquid from pulp – it can certainly be employed to create juice-like beverages. The key lies in understanding the differences in process, texture, and the types of produce that yield the best results when you use your blender as a juicer.
Unlike juicers, which are specifically designed to extract pure liquid by spinning or pressing, blenders pulverise ingredients. This means the resulting liquid will retain more of the fruit and vegetable fibre, often leading to a thicker, more smoothie-like consistency rather than a clear juice. However, this retained fibre is a significant nutritional benefit, contributing to satiety and aiding digestion. Therefore, when you use a blender as a juicer, you are essentially creating a whole-fruit or whole-vegetable beverage, which is a valuable alternative.
The success of using your blender as a juicer depends heavily on the type of blender you own and the ingredients you choose. High-powered blenders, such as those found in the NutriBullet blender range or similar robust models, are far more capable of breaking down tougher fibres and creating a smoother liquid than their less powerful counterparts. For those considering this method, preparation is crucial to achieve a desirable outcome.
- Blenders create fibre-rich whole-fruit/veg drinks, not pure juice.
- High-powered blenders yield smoother results.
- Preparation is key for optimal texture.
- Nutritional benefits include retained fibre.
Understanding the Blender's Role in Juice Creation
When you use a blender as a juicer, you are aiming for a drink that mimics the liquid extraction of a juicer, but the inherent mechanism of a blender is different. A blender's blades spin at high speeds to chop, liquefy, and emulsify. This process incorporates air and, crucially, keeps all the plant matter, including pulp and fibre, suspended within the liquid. This is a fundamental departure from a traditional juicer, which expels the pulp, leaving only the juice. Therefore, what you produce is more accurately described as a blended juice or a very thin smoothie.
The texture difference is the most noticeable outcome. A dedicated juicer might produce a crystal-clear liquid from celery or apples, whereas a blender will yield a cloudy, opaque liquid. The taste profile can also differ; the presence of fibre can make the drink feel more substantial and can alter how the flavours are perceived on the palate. For many, this is a positive trade-off, as the entire fruit or vegetable is consumed, maximising nutrient intake.
For instance, carrots might become gritty if not blended thoroughly enough in a weaker blender, whereas a high-speed machine can pulverise them into a smooth, drinkable consistency. Similarly, leafy greens like spinach or kale, which can be challenging for some juicers to process efficiently, blend well but contribute to the overall thickness and potentially a slightly more fibrous mouthfeel. The goal is to find the right balance of ingredients and blending time to achieve the smoothest possible result, making the blender an effective tool for nutrient-dense beverages.
When to Choose a Blender Over a Juicer
Opting to use your blender as a juicer is a strategic choice driven by several factors. Firstly, the cost-effectiveness is a significant advantage. A high-quality blender is a multi-purpose kitchen appliance, and leveraging it for juicing means avoiding the additional expense of purchasing a dedicated juicer. If you already own a capable blender, exploring its juicing potential is a logical first step. Secondly, the nutritional profile of the resulting beverage is often superior in terms of fibre content, which is beneficial for digestion and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent option for meal replacements or substantial snacks.
Furthermore, the ease of cleanup can sometimes be a deciding factor. While juicers often have many parts that require meticulous washing, a blender jug can often be rinsed quickly, especially if you employ a 'self-cleaning' method immediately after use. This practical benefit makes daily juicing more appealing. Finally, the versatility of a blender means you can easily transition from making a simple blended juice to a thicker smoothie, a soup, or even a sauce, all within the same appliance. This adaptability makes it a more integrated tool for varied culinary needs.
Preparing Your Produce for Blender Juicing
The success of turning your blender into an effective juicer hinges significantly on how you prepare your fruits and vegetables. Unlike dedicated juicers, blenders require ingredients to be broken down into smaller pieces before they can be adequately blended into a smooth liquid. This preparatory stage is crucial for ensuring your blender can handle the load without overheating and for achieving the best possible texture in your final drink.
Start by washing all produce thoroughly. Remove any stems, pits, or large seeds from fruits like apples, peaches, or cherries, as these can be tough, stringy, or damaging to blender blades. For citrus fruits, peeling them is generally recommended, as the pith can impart a bitter taste. For vegetables such as carrots, celery, or cucumbers, cut them into manageable chunks, roughly 2-3 centimetres in size. This makes it easier for the blender's blades to access and break down the ingredients efficiently.
When dealing with fibrous ingredients like ginger or turmeric, it's advisable to peel them and chop them finely. For leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or chard, a rough chop is usually sufficient, but ensure they are thoroughly washed to remove any grit.
Cutting Techniques for Optimal Blending
The way you cut your ingredients directly impacts the smoothness and consistency of your blended juice. Aim for uniform pieces so that all ingredients process at a similar rate, preventing some items from becoming overly pulverised while others remain chunky. For hard vegetables like carrots or beets, cutting them into smaller, thinner rounds or cubes is more effective than large chunks. This allows the blades to make contact and break them down more easily.
Softer fruits such as berries, bananas, or melon can be cut into larger pieces, as they break down more readily. However, if you are aiming for an exceptionally smooth liquid, reducing the size of all ingredients, including softer ones, will yield superior results. For dense, hard items like apples or pears, core them and cut into wedges or cubes. This ensures the tough core is removed and the flesh is broken down efficiently.
When incorporating leafy greens, a rough chop is generally fine, but if your blender is not exceptionally powerful, consider tearing larger leaves into smaller pieces. This prevents them from wrapping around the blades and creating a vortex that hinders effective blending. The overarching principle is to provide your blender with the best possible opportunity to pulverise everything into a homogenous mixture, minimising strain on the motor and maximising the quality of your 'juice'.
Adding Liquids for Smoothness
To effectively use your blender as a juicer and achieve a palatable consistency, the addition of liquid is almost always necessary. Without sufficient liquid, ingredients can get stuck, the blender may struggle, and the result will be a thick, unappealing paste rather than a drinkable juice. The type and amount of liquid you add can also influence the flavour and nutritional content of your beverage.
Water is the most neutral option, allowing the natural flavours of your fruits and vegetables to shine through. However, you can also opt for other liquids to enhance your drink. Coconut water, for example, adds electrolytes and a subtle sweetness, making it an excellent choice for post-workout beverages. Unsweetened plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can add creaminess and a different flavour profile, though this moves the drink closer to a smoothie. Freshly squeezed fruit juice (like apple or orange) can also be used as a liquid base, intensifying the fruity notes.
Begin by adding your chosen liquid to the blender jug before adding the solid ingredients. This helps the blades move freely from the start, creating a vortex that pulls the solid ingredients down into the blades for more efficient processing. Start with a moderate amount, typically around 150-250 ml (roughly 1/2 to 1 cup) for a single serving, and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency. You can gauge this by observing the movement of ingredients in the jug; if they are not circulating freely, more liquid is required. A good starting point is to add enough liquid to just cover the base of the blades, then add solids, and then add more liquid as you blend.
Always add liquid first to ensure the blades have lubrication and can create the necessary vortex for efficient blending.
The Blending Process: Techniques for Juicing
Once your produce is prepped and you have your liquid base ready, the blending process itself requires a thoughtful approach to mimic the function of a juicer as closely as possible. This isn't just about pressing a button; it's about employing specific techniques to maximise extraction and achieve the smoothest possible texture from your blender.
Start by adding your chosen liquid to the blender jug first. Then, add your softer ingredients, such as leafy greens and berries, followed by harder ingredients like apples, carrots, or celery. If you are using a high-powered blender, such as a NutriBullet blender, you can often add ingredients in larger quantities. For less powerful models, it's advisable to fill the blender jug no more than two-thirds full to avoid overwhelming the motor and ensure proper circulation.
Begin blending on the lowest speed setting. This allows the blades to start breaking down the ingredients without splashing or creating an uneven mixture. Gradually increase the speed to medium, and then to high. For most blenders, blending for 60-90 seconds on high speed is usually sufficient to achieve a smooth consistency. Listen to the sound of the blender; if it sounds strained or the ingredients are not moving freely, stop the blender, add a little more liquid, and resume blending. You are looking for a homogenous mixture with no large chunks remaining.
Achieving a Smoother Texture
The primary challenge when using a blender as a juicer is achieving a smooth, pulp-free liquid. While you won't eliminate pulp entirely, you can significantly minimise it and refine the texture. The key is adequate blending time and sufficient power. High-speed blenders are inherently better at this due to their motor strength and blade design, pulverising ingredients into very fine particles. If you have a standard blender, you may need to blend for longer periods, potentially in stages, to break down the fibres effectively.
After the initial blend, if the texture is still too thick or chunky, pause the blender. Scrape down the sides of the jug with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated, add a small splash more liquid if necessary, and then continue blending. Repeating this process can help achieve a finer consistency. Some blenders offer specific 'smoothie' or 'liquefy' programmes that can be very effective.
Consider the order of ingredients. Adding liquids first, then soft items like greens, followed by harder fruits and vegetables, helps create a vortex that draws everything into the blades. For very tough ingredients like raw beetroot or fibrous celery, pre-chopping them into very small pieces is paramount. The goal is to liquefy, not just chop.
The final texture will always be more fluid than a typical smoothie but thicker than juice from a dedicated juicer.
Straining for a Clearer Juice (Optional)
If the texture produced by blending is still too fibrous for your preference, and you desire a clearer, more juice-like consistency, you can employ a straining method. This step is entirely optional and somewhat negates the 'whole-food' benefit of retaining fibre, but it offers a way to get closer to traditional juice if that is your aim.
The most effective tool for this is a fine-mesh sieve or a nut milk bag. Place the sieve over a bowl or jug, or line the bowl with the nut milk bag. Pour the blended mixture into the sieve or bag. If using a sieve, use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the liquid through, separating the pulp from the juice. If using a nut milk bag, gather the top and gently squeeze the liquid out, leaving the pulp inside the bag.
This straining process will result in a clearer liquid but will remove most of the beneficial fibre. The pulp left behind can be used in other recipes, such as baked goods, vegetable patties, or added to compost. For example, the pulp from carrot and apple juice can be dried and used in muffins or bread.
Be aware that this process adds an extra step to your preparation and cleanup. If you are straining, it is often more efficient to blend a larger batch at once. The recovered 'juice' will be less viscous and closer in appearance to that produced by a centrifugal juicer, though it may still retain some very fine particles depending on the fineness of your sieve or bag.
Strain large batches for efficiency, using a nut milk bag for the finest results and easiest squeezing.
Troubleshooting Common Blender Juicing Issues
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter challenges when using your blender as a juicer. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can help you refine your technique and achieve consistently better results. Troubleshooting is key to making this appliance work effectively for your juicing needs.
One frequent issue is a gritty or chunky texture. This typically occurs when the blender's motor isn't powerful enough, the ingredients weren't cut small enough, or the blending time was insufficient. If you find your 'juice' has a sandy or unpleasantly fibrous mouthfeel, the remedy involves longer blending times, ensuring liquids are added appropriately, and breaking down harder ingredients into smaller pieces before blending. Repeating the blend cycle, perhaps with a little extra liquid, can also help.
Another problem is the blender struggling or overheating. This is often a sign that the jug is too full, or the ingredients are too dense and dry. If you notice the motor labouring, stop immediately. Remove some of the contents, add more liquid, and then resume blending in smaller batches if necessary. Never force your blender; it's designed for specific tasks, and pushing it too hard can lead to damage.
Foamy or frothy juice can be another outcome, particularly with certain fruits and vegetables or if the blender is run at excessively high speeds for too long. While a bit of foam is normal, excessive amounts can be unappealing. Allowing the juice to sit for a few minutes can help some of the foam dissipate naturally, or you can gently skim it off with a spoon.
Ingredient Choices for Better Blender Juicing
Not all produce behaves the same way in a blender. Some ingredients are excellent for achieving a smooth, drinkable consistency, while others can be problematic. Choosing the right combination of fruits and vegetables is fundamental to successful blender juicing.
High-water content fruits and vegetables are your best friends. These include cucumber, watermelon, celery, oranges, and berries. They provide natural liquid, which aids the blending process and helps achieve a smoother consistency. Citrus fruits, when peeled, blend very well and add a refreshing tang. Apples and pears also blend well, but their cores should be removed, and they should be cored and chopped into manageable pieces.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are great for nutrient density. While they can add to the fibrous texture, they blend relatively easily, especially when combined with other, more liquid-heavy ingredients. For tougher greens like collard greens or Swiss chard, consider using them in smaller quantities or pairing them with softer greens.
Hard root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and ginger are where blender power becomes crucial. They require significant pulverisation. If your blender is not high-powered, consider steaming hard root vegetables lightly before blending. This softens them, making them easier to break down and resulting in a smoother texture. Always peel ginger and turmeric and chop them into small pieces.
Ingredients to be cautious with include very starchy items like bananas (which are better suited for thicker smoothies), or very fibrous items like raw sweet potato if not cut extremely small and blended thoroughly. Coconut flesh can also be challenging for some blenders.
The choice of ingredients significantly impacts the final texture and ease of blending.
Maximising Nutrient Retention
One of the most compelling reasons to use your blender as a juicer is the potential for enhanced nutrient retention. Unlike traditional juicers that discard the pulp, blenders keep all edible parts of the fruit and vegetable intact within the drink. This means you consume the fibre, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that might otherwise be lost.
Fibre is crucial for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to satiety. By blending whole ingredients, you are ensuring you benefit from these properties. Many vitamins, such as Vitamin C and certain B vitamins, are water-soluble and can be degraded by heat or prolonged exposure to air during the juicing process. Blending, when done efficiently, minimises these losses.
To maximise nutrient retention, focus on using fresh, high-quality produce. Wash ingredients thoroughly but avoid excessive soaking, which can leach water-soluble vitamins. Blend your ingredients promptly after preparation and consume the beverage immediately. Nutrients begin to degrade once they are exposed to air and light. While a powerful blender can pulverise ingredients quickly, reducing oxidation time, the sooner you drink it, the better.
Consider adding 'superfoods' like chia seeds, flax seeds, or a spoonful of spirulina powder to your blended juice. These ingredients are packed with nutrients and blend seamlessly into the beverage, further boosting its nutritional profile without significantly altering its texture, provided your blender is up to the task.
Ultimately, the blender-as-juicer approach champions a 'whole-food' philosophy, ensuring that you gain the maximum possible benefit from the fruits and vegetables you consume.
Maintaining Your Blender for Juicing
To ensure your blender consistently performs well when used as a juicer, regular maintenance is paramount. Proper care not only prolongs the life of your appliance but also guarantees that it operates at peak efficiency, producing smoother results and preventing premature wear and tear on the motor and blades.
The most critical aspect of blender maintenance is cleaning. For best results, clean your blender jug, lid, and blades immediately after each use. Residual food particles can dry and become difficult to remove, potentially leading to odours and affecting future blends. Most blender jugs, especially those from brands like KitchenAid mixer models or NutriBullet blenders, are designed for easy cleaning. A quick rinse is often sufficient for simple fruit juices.
For tougher residues, add a few drops of dish soap and some warm water to the jug. Secure the lid, and run the blender on a low speed for 30-60 seconds. This 'self-cleaning' cycle can effectively dislodge most remaining particles. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly. For more stubborn grime, particularly around the blade assembly, you may need to carefully use a soft brush or sponge.
Always ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling or storing them to prevent mould or mildew growth. Pay attention to seals and gaskets; ensure they are clean and properly seated to prevent leaks during operation.
Blade Care and Longevity
The blades are the heart of your blender, and their sharpness and integrity are crucial for effective juicing. Over time, blades can become dull or damaged, leading to less efficient blending and a coarser texture. Regular inspection and proper care are therefore essential.
Avoid running the blender dry, as this can cause unnecessary friction and heat, potentially dulling the blades and straining the motor. Ensure there is always sufficient liquid to allow the blades to move freely. Do not overload the blender jug; this puts excessive strain on the motor and the blade assembly, reducing their lifespan.
When cleaning, be extremely cautious. Blender blades are exceptionally sharp. Use a brush to clean around them rather than your fingers. If your blender model allows for blade disassembly, follow the manufacturer's instructions for removal and thorough cleaning. Some high-end blenders might have specific cleaning solutions or tools recommended by the manufacturer.
If you notice any signs of damage, such as bent or chipped blades, or if the blender consistently struggles to break down ingredients it previously handled with ease, it might be time to consider replacing the blade assembly. Check your blender's manual or the manufacturer's website for information on replacement parts and their availability, as this is often a more economical solution than replacing the entire appliance.
Motor and Housing Upkeep
The motor is the power source of your blender, and its longevity is directly linked to how you use and maintain the appliance. Overheating is a primary enemy of blender motors. This can be caused by blending for too long without breaks, processing excessively dense or frozen ingredients without adequate liquid, or overfilling the jug.
Always adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maximum blending times. If a recipe calls for extended blending, it's often best to run the blender in intervals, allowing the motor to cool down between cycles. If your blender has a 'pulse' function, it can be useful for breaking down stubborn chunks without running the motor continuously.
The exterior housing of your blender should also be kept clean. Wipe down the base and motor housing with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging the base in water, as this can damage the electrical components. Ensure that vents on the motor housing are kept clear of dust and debris to allow for proper airflow and heat dissipation. A clean appliance is not only more aesthetically pleasing but also functions more efficiently and safely.
For models that are part of a larger kitchen appliance system, like a KitchenAid mixer which might have a blender attachment, ensure you follow the specific maintenance guidelines for both the main unit and the attachment. Adhering to these simple upkeep routines will ensure your blender remains a reliable tool for creating delicious juices and other blended creations for years to come.
Preventative Measures for Optimal Blender Juicing
Taking proactive steps is key to ensuring your blender consistently serves you well as a juicer, preventing potential issues before they arise. Prevention not only saves you time and frustration but also extends the lifespan of your appliance and guarantees a better quality beverage every time.
The most fundamental preventative measure is to understand your blender's capabilities. Not all blenders are created equal. A high-powered blender like a KitchenAid or a robust NutriBullet blender is far more suited to the demands of breaking down fibrous vegetables than a basic countertop model. Refer to your appliance's manual to understand its wattage, recommended usage times, and any specific limitations regarding ingredient types or quantities. Overloading or exceeding the blender's designed capacity is a sure way to cause damage.
Choosing the right ingredients, as discussed, plays a massive role in prevention. By favouring fruits and vegetables with higher water content and pre-cutting harder items into smaller, manageable pieces, you reduce the strain on the motor and blades. This makes the entire blending process smoother and less taxing on the appliance.
Always ensure that the blender jug is securely locked into place before operation. A loose jug can lead to leaks and potential damage to the motor base. Similarly, ensure the lid is firmly sealed. This prevents spills and ensures the ingredients are contained, allowing for effective blending.
Smart Ingredient Handling
When preparing ingredients, think about how they will interact within the blender. Hard, fibrous vegetables like raw carrots or celery should be chopped into pieces no larger than 2-3 cm. For ingredients like apples or pears, coring them thoroughly is essential, as the core can be tough and difficult to blend, potentially damaging blades.
Citrus fruits should always be peeled; the pith is bitter and can leave an unpleasant aftertaste, while the peel itself can be difficult for some blenders to break down completely. Similarly, remove pits and large seeds from stone fruits and berries. While small seeds, like those in raspberries or strawberries, are usually fine, larger ones can be problematic.
For leafy greens, especially tougher varieties like kale or chard, removing the thick central stems can help achieve a smoother blend. Tear or roughly chop the leaves. If you are using a blender that struggles with leafy greens, consider adding them to the jug with plenty of liquid to help them circulate and break down more effectively.
Pre-cutting is your most powerful preventative tool for smooth blending.
Ensuring Proper Blending Technique
The technique you employ during the blending process is crucial for both the quality of your 'juice' and the health of your blender. Starting slowly and gradually increasing speed is a universally recommended practice. This allows ingredients to begin breaking down evenly and prevents a sudden, forceful impact on the blades, which can cause premature wear.
Adding the liquid first creates a vortex that helps pull solid ingredients down into the blade assembly, ensuring everything is processed efficiently. If your blender seems to be struggling, or if ingredients are not circulating, stop the blender and add a little more liquid. This is far better than forcing the motor. Do not be tempted to continuously blend for excessively long periods without allowing the motor to rest.
Listen to your blender. Changes in sound can indicate problems. A high-pitched whine might suggest the motor is working too hard, while a grinding noise could indicate an issue with the blades or a piece of food caught in the mechanism. If you hear unusual noises, stop the blender immediately and investigate.
After blending, practice the immediate cleaning routine. This not only keeps your appliance in good condition but also prevents build-up that could lead to long-term issues or affect the performance of the blades and seals. A clean blender is a happy blender, ready for its next task.
Invest in a good tamper if your blender came with one; it allows you to safely push down ingredients while blending without stopping the machine.
Blender vs. Juicer: Key Differences for Your Kitchen
When considering how to create fruit and vegetable beverages, the choice between a blender and a dedicated juicer is often debated. While both appliances can be used to process produce, they operate on fundamentally different principles, yielding distinct results and offering unique benefits for your kitchen.
The primary distinction lies in how they process ingredients. A juicer, whether centrifugal or masticating, is designed to extract liquid by separating it from the pulp. It spins or presses the produce, expelling the fibrous solids and leaving behind a clear, concentrated juice. This process removes most of the fibre, resulting in a drink that is quickly absorbed by the body and can offer a more intense flavour of the extracted liquid.
A blender, on the other hand, pulverises entire fruits and vegetables, including the skin, pulp, and fibre, into a liquid or semi-liquid state. The resulting beverage, often called a smoothie or a blended juice, retains all the original components of the produce. This means it's richer in fibre, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Blenders are also far more versatile, capable of preparing a wider range of items beyond just drinks, such as soups, sauces, nut butters, and dips.
For instance, if you want a pure, crisp apple juice with no pulp, a juicer is the tool for the job. If you desire a filling, nutrient-dense drink that includes the benefits of whole fruit fibre, a blender is ideal. The choice depends on your dietary goals, desired texture, and how you intend to use the appliance in your daily routine.
Nutritional Profile: Fibre vs. Concentrated Nutrients
The difference in processing directly impacts the nutritional content of the final beverage. When you use a blender as a juicer, you are consuming the entire fruit or vegetable. This means you are getting all the fibre, which is vital for gut health, can help lower cholesterol, and contributes to a feeling of fullness. Fibre also slows down the absorption of sugars, preventing rapid blood sugar spikes.
Dedicated juicers, by removing the fibre, yield a more concentrated form of vitamins and minerals. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to absorb nutrients rapidly or who struggle to consume large quantities of fruits and vegetables. The absence of fibre means that the sugars from fruits are absorbed more quickly, which might be a consideration for those managing blood sugar levels.
It's also worth noting that some beneficial compounds, known as phytonutrients, are found in both the juice and the pulp of fruits and vegetables. While juicers capture the phytonutrients in the liquid, blenders capture them along with the fibre. The overall health impact is a subject of ongoing research, but both methods offer significant nutritional advantages depending on individual needs and preferences.
Versatility and Kitchen Integration
When evaluating appliances for your kitchen, versatility is a key factor. A blender, by its nature, is a multi-purpose workhorse. Beyond creating blended juices, it can effortlessly transition to making smoothies, protein shakes, hot soups (with high-powered models), purees, sauces, dips, and even crushing ice for cocktails. Appliances like the KitchenAid mixer, which may offer a blender attachment, highlight this integrated approach to food preparation.
A dedicated juicer, while excellent at its primary function, is typically limited to juicing. While some may have attachments for making pasta or sorbet, their core purpose remains singular. This means if you already own a capable blender, you may not need to purchase a separate juicer if your primary goal is to create nutrient-dense beverages. The ability to use one appliance for multiple tasks saves counter space and investment.
Furthermore, consider cleanup. While juicers can have numerous parts that require thorough washing, blenders, particularly those with self-cleaning cycles, can often be rinsed and cleaned more quickly. The convenience factor associated with a blender's broad range of applications makes it a highly integrated and practical appliance for many households. For example, a Kenwood food processor might offer some blending functions, but a dedicated blender or a high-speed NutriBullet blender will typically excel at liquefying tasks.
For a truly versatile kitchen, a blender often provides more options than a specialised juicer.