Can a Vitamix handle hot soup?
Making hot soup in a blender like the Vitamix is a great way to whip up quick, healthy meals. Vitamix blenders are known for their power and versatility in the kitchen. But can they handle the heat and volume of blending hot soups without ruining the machine? Let’s take a look at what temperatures and ingredients the Vitamix can handle to make delicious homemade soups.
How hot can a Vitamix get?
Vitamix blenders are designed to withstand high temperatures thanks to their commercial grade motors and blades. According to the owner’s manual, Vitamix blenders can heat up ingredients through friction to temperatures upwards of 240°F (115°C). So they can definitely handle boiling hot soup. That’s much hotter than typical soup temperatures of 165°F – 195°F (74°C – 90°C).
| Blender Type | Maximum Temperature |
|---|---|
| Vitamix | 240°F (115°C) |
| Standard blender | 175°F (79°C) |
However, just because a Vitamix can get that hot doesn’t mean you should blend extremely hot ingredients on maximum speed. Small amounts of simmering liquid added to other cool ingredients are perfectly safe. But avoid putting large amounts of near-boiling liquid in it, as the sudden temperature change can damage the container.
Ideal soup temperatures for Vitamix
For the best results, aim to make soups in your Vitamix blender with ingredients preheated to within these optimal temperature ranges:
| Ingredient | Ideal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Liquid (broth, milk, water) | 130°F – 160°F (54°C – 71°C) |
| Leafy greens, fresh herbs | Room temperature |
| Root vegetables, squash | 165°F (74°C) if roasting |
| Beans, grains | 165°F (74°C) if cooking |
Preheating your ingredients prepares them for blending and results in a soup with a silky smooth consistency. Starting with cooler ingredients can leave soups gritty or chunky.
Tips for making hot soup in a Vitamix
Here are some tips to safely make delicious hot soups in a Vitamix blender:
- Use preheated broth, milk, or water. Heat up vegetable or chicken broth, milk, or water to 130°F – 160°F (54°C – 71°C) on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Sauté aromatics first. Onions, garlic, ginger, and spices can be sautéed before adding to the Vitamix to boost flavor.
- Roast vegetables. Roasting vegetables like carrots, squash, or tomatoes in the oven caramelizes their sugars.
- Simmer grains or beans. For starchier soups, simmer grains and beans fully before blending.
- Chop ingredients into 1-2 inch pieces to blend more smoothly.
- Fill the container no more than 2/3 full to leave room for ingredients to move and heat up.
- Start on low speed to better incorporate ingredients, then increase speed.
- Use the tamper to push ingredients into the blades as needed.
- Blend in bursts and stir occasionally to evenly distribute heating.
- Let soup cool slightly before blending if ingredients start splattering.
Safe Vitamix container types for hot soup
Vitamix offers a variety of container sizes and types. But not all are ideal for hot soups. Here’s a breakdown:
| Container | Safe for Hot Soup? |
|---|---|
| Wet jar container | Yes |
| Dry grains jar | No |
| Personal cup adapter | No |
| Blending bowls | No |
The classic Vitamix wet jar container is designed specifically to withstand high heat from friction and hot ingredients. Its secure lid prevents splattering, unlike personal cups and bowls.
The dry grains jar, while great for grinding grains and batter, is not meant for prolonged high speeds or hot ingredients that can warp the plastic. And plastic blending bowls can warp and aren’t intended for hot items either.
Top soup recipes to try in a Vitamix
Ready to start blending up nourishing and delicious soups? Try out these top-rated Vitamix soup recipes:
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This classic is so velvety smooth and full of flavor. With tomatoes, onions, herbs, and a touch of cream, it’s comforting yet healthy.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrition. Roasting the broccoli gives great depth of flavor to balance the cream and cheese.
Black Bean Soup
Protein-rich and budget-friendly. Blending the beans makes it extra creamy without any cream needed.
Butternut Squash Soup
Naturally sweet roasted squash paired with warm spices like cinnamon and curry powder. Top with cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
Split Pea Soup
A stick-to-your-bones, vegetarian and vegan soup with split peas, celery, onion, carrots, and herbs. Adding a ham hock gives it even more richness.
Tips for preventing a Vitamix from overheating
To get the most out of your Vitamix blender and avoid overheating it, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overfill the container. Leave enough room for ingredients to circulate and splatter.
- Use preheated but not boiling liquids.
- Avoid long run times. Blend for 1-2 minutes then let the motor rest and repeat as needed.
- Start blending on low before increasing speed.
- Use short blending bursts for hot ingredients.
- Allow the motor to fully stop between blending.
- Make sure adequate ventilation around the base.
- Don’t put extremely hot ingredients in a cold Vitamix.
If you notice the Vitamix getting excessively hot or smelling like burning, stop blending immediately to allow it to cool. Avoid consecutive high-speed blends, and call Vitamix if it continues overheating with normal use.
Signs of Vitamix overheating
How can you tell if your Vitamix blender is getting dangerously hot? Look out for these signs of overheating:
- Motor or container feels very hot to the touch
- Strong burning smell coming from machine
- Loud straining motor noise
- Steam escaping from container lid
- Blender suddenly stops running
- Smoke coming from base of motor
Occasional mild heat and short shut offs are normal, but consistent overheating can damage the device. Stop using it right away if you notice any signs of excess heat and contact Vitamix support.
Conclusion
Vitamix blenders can absolutely make steaming hot, delicious soups safely when used properly. Their commercial grade motors and containers can withstand high friction heat, but shouldn’t be subjected to sustained boiling temperatures. For the best results, preheat ingredients to between 130°F – 165°F before blending. Blend in small batches using low speeds first and short blending intervals. With the right techniques, any Vitamix blender can produce silky, heartwarming soups to enjoy all year long.