Hi
I see mixers have been discussed here a bit, but as new models come out all the time, I'm still asking the question. If you just want to point me to previous posts though, feel free.
I have a Kenwood Major from over 30 years ago. It has worked very hard, and perhaps sometimes I've worked it too hard. Its starting to show signs of age. Although I could just get it fixed, the bowl is also cracked (I have the plastic bowl). I could replace that too, but the new bowl would be expensive, getting it fixed would be expensive, so I am taking the time to look around and decide if I would be better replacing the mixer.
- I want something that is at least as powerful as the Kenwood Major, and with a bowl size at least as big (6.7 kg) - I regularly do bother big batches of dough and a very heavy dough.
- I need to be able to put it away off the bench when it isn't being used, but it can't be too heavy to get in and out as its used regularly.
- I need the same machine to be able to whisk eggs, do cake batter, etc. I can't afford ($$ and space) two machines right now.
- I have to watch the budget.
- I'm in Australia.
What is your favourite machine?
I'm thinking I'll just replace my Kenwood Major with a current Kenwood Chef XL (which I think is what the major is now called) although there are about four different models to chose from so I am trying to weigh up the differences and whether they are worth the $$, but I'd be interested to hear other opinions. I'm unlikely to be convinced that a domestic kitchen aid is better than a kenwood!
Welcome Fiona, You may well be able to pick up a 2nd hand bowl through gumtree or ebay or if you are in Perth like me some very good local facebook pages we even have Freo Food Bread for those that like to do things bread. Kind regards Derek
Fiona, you could take a look at the Ankarsrum. It’s not inexpensive, but you suffer once, and enjoy for years. Check out the forum for references. Most that own them - treasure them.
I am completely pleased with mine.
Danny
DanAyo, how is the Ankarsrum with small batches of dough? Like one loaf.
I never really tested to see how small it would mix, but 500g is no problem.
Dan
Thanks for the replies.
Derek, as my machine is old and up for probably expensive repairs (and based on previous repair times would mean I’d be without it for a while) I’m taking the opportunity to see if there is an improved machine I should replace it with. So it isn’t just the bowl that needs replacing. This machine has been working very hard for about 30 yrs! Thanks for your suggestion though.
Danny, thanks for your suggestion. The Ankarsrum is actually the only machine that had tempted me away from just getting another kenwood. The price is more than the kenwood model I’m looking at though so it would have to be worth it. Also I have only found one place to but them in Australia, so that concerns me - might be impossible to get service, etc. It might not be a good option just because I’m in Au.
But I’d love to hear more about it.
What’s it like for big heavy batches of bread? Can it do lighter jobs well - like beating egg whites and making cakes? Is it easy to lift in and out of a cupboard (weight, size)?
I haven’t gone this large but I think it can handle 8 pounds of dough. Good with egg whites and cakes. It is not a light machine but it could be handled. Mine stays on he counter.
I haven’t heard of anyone talking about needing repairs. I’d contact the distributor and ask them about that.
Danny
The usual capacity number thrown around for the Ankarsrum is 15 pounds of dough, although their website only says 11.
Beating egg whites and butter is best done in the plastic bowl; egg whites is great, butter.....not as good as my KA with the beater blade, but the open top is a compensating feature.
RichieRich, the Ank does fine with very small batches - I have mixed batches as low as 150 grams of flour, no problems.
Fiona What’s it like for big heavy batches of bread? Can it do lighter jobs well - like beating egg whites and making cakes? Is it easy to lift in and out of a cupboard (weight, size)?
From Youtube videos, it can definitely handle very large batches , It can also beat egg whites, but I use the plastic bowls and the whips for that . It is fairly heavy, I think it will not be that bad if you lift the machine and the bowl separately, but together it will be pretty heavy to put in and out of a cupboard.
Also I have only found one place to but them in Australia, so that concerns me - might be impossible to get service, etc. It might not be a good option just because I’m in Au.
I think there is only one authorized sales outlet in all of the US as well. It is extremely rare to read of anyone needing any service - the machine is very well engineered, so I would not worry about customer service,