Forum Thermomix

Welcoming Center, Management and General Chat => Chit Chat => Topic started by: dyljon on May 06, 2011, 05:36:16 am

Title: Thermochef...
Post by: dyljon on May 06, 2011, 05:36:16 am
Hi - has anyone heard of these, there are quite a few videos on youtube of them http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEtBlPlKQDo

Features look very familiar! Have heard a rumour they will be coming in soon at a price of under $1000.

Could be interesting competition... I guess it doesn't come with the reputation on the tmx though.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on May 06, 2011, 05:45:29 am
I have been doing a little research on them as they are based on the TM21

from what I can gather so far, there is no reverse function, the scales are separate from the bowl (ie you have to weigh into something first on the side).

Everything on the videos seems to be cut a lot smaller than we would with the TM to start with (more time consuming)

I haven't been able to work out if you are able to use the rice basket with the varoma as yet ...

Some would like the stainless steamer - but they do get very very hot.

I did like the idea of the steamer locking into the bowl like it did. Not sure if I could cope with that being permanent though as my steamer is often on and off the bowl as I cook. Would be a nice option if you could get it.

anyway that is my observations from watching the videos the last couple of weeks  ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on May 06, 2011, 05:49:21 am
They have been in Spain for quite a while from what i have heard.
They are as Faffa says a take off of the TM21.
They are made in China and have a 1 yr warranty.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dyljon on May 06, 2011, 07:31:05 am
Mm, no reverse function seems a bit silly. I use reverse all the time. And yes, I was wondering if the stainless steel would get hot. I wonder if it uses the same gearless technology in the motor as TMX, as that is what makes it so long-wearing isn't it. I'd be worried about it being made in China!

Still, perhaps a cheaper option for those who really want a tmx but really cannot afford one at the time.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: mkr on May 06, 2011, 07:43:35 am
Mm, no reverse function seems a bit silly. I use reverse all the time. And yes, I was wondering if the stainless steel would get hot. I wonder if it uses the same gearless technology in the motor as TMX, as that is what makes it so long-wearing isn't it. I'd be worried about it being made in China!

Still, perhaps a cheaper option for those who really want a tmx but really cannot afford one at the time.

I wonder if those that didn't want to spend the money for a TM31 might be better off purchasing a secondhand TM21 rather than a cheap Chinese copy.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on May 06, 2011, 07:47:47 am
If people think they can't afford a tm, do they think they can afford an imitation? $1000 is still a lot of money, and if I were spending an amount like that, I'd want to make sure what I was purchasing was worth it. I, too, would be more inclined to get a tm21 to the thermochef.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Debbiebillg on May 06, 2011, 09:33:56 am
My husband found them on this website (by the people who sell "The Pizza Maker", for $799.

http://www.newwavekitchenappliances.com.au/catalogue/products/thermochef-natura/thermochef-natura

Hmmm and doesn't it look like they've tried to copy the TMX.

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Zan on May 06, 2011, 01:37:20 pm
Very interesting.
I don't think it's as good as TMX and dont' like the side scale or the lcd display (is it just me but I find things break quicker with the extra technology, and the lcd on my slow cooker went many years ago but as it still cooks great for me I haven't replaced it, lol).
But for $1000 less I'd certainly be considering it if I was looking into buying a tmx. I don't think it looks $1000 less good ifykwim.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Zan on May 06, 2011, 01:40:08 pm
Just looking at the next you tube video, OMG how can they have copied that much without breaking copyright. The spatula, basket are exactly the same. the 'varoma' is other than the stainless steel thing (which I thought makes it that bit different along with the way it slots on). But really too much of a copy!!!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on May 07, 2011, 12:17:02 am
don't worry if you keep watching you will find the recipe they copied too including the ingredient of "TM vegetable stock concentrate" lol  ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: TM_Ted on May 07, 2011, 12:38:58 am
I bought a Chinese copy of an iPhone for AUD$57.00. It looks like an iPhone 3 and is like an iPhone. However, a lot of the functionality is missing, Bluetooth sort of works, Camera is a waste of time. I am a technophobe but not into apps (yet). I am leaving that to when I get my iPad for my birthday in a few weeks.

These days you can only expect what you pay for. Never-the-less I am happy with my phone and to overcome the camera aspect I bought a low cost digital camera from Harvey Normans that takes fantastic pictures.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Debbiebillg on May 07, 2011, 01:31:50 am
Whilst I think the TMX is brilliant and great quality, I think it is overpriced in Australia though.  You only have to look at the price of the thermomixes coming up on ebay from international countries.  Distributors would be getting much better pricing and consultants don't get much of a cut for all their effort (and expenses). 

Just my two cents worth !
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Thermomixer on June 26, 2011, 11:02:15 am
Hi all, just wondering if anybody has actually seen one of these machines in action yet?

They are now available through Matchbox Stores (http://www.matchbox.com.au/index.php?nav1=Products%20and%20Brands&nav2=Appliances&nav3=Thermo%20Chef&id=44) ?

It is like the old Themromix TM21, but about half the price.

I believe they are made in China with a Japanese motor.

Have been looking for something for a friend and this seems a cheaper alternative?

Catch you all soon.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on June 26, 2011, 11:09:26 am
Hi TMXer, nice to see you on here. Guess someone has to be the first to buy one so that we can learn a little more about it eg are they happy with what it does, how long did it last etc  ;) ;) I see it has a 2 year warranty not a 1 year as previously stated so that is a bonus I guess.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Thermomixer on June 26, 2011, 11:12:01 am
Might bite the bullet and test them out ( prior to giving them their present - will just explain I was helping ensure they get the best results ;) )
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on June 26, 2011, 11:25:07 am
They look interesting. I think some good competition is always a good think as It may help bring the price down on the Thermomix making it more affordable to more people.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on June 26, 2011, 11:47:09 am
It will be interesting to hear about your results. Lovely to know you are keeping a bit of an eye on us. ;) ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on June 26, 2011, 12:52:06 pm
Interesting. The motor isn't as powerful as the TMX.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on June 27, 2011, 12:56:35 am
And what I could see it takes longer To set the time and speed etc where the Thermomix is one press of a button and off you go. Maybe I'm nitpicking but I do love my TM and can't imagin anything else to be as good.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on June 27, 2011, 01:51:09 am
I wonder if they will start a forum like ours - that could be an interesting read and give us a bit more of an insight into the machine.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Thermomixer on June 27, 2011, 02:43:01 am
Will let you know.

Probably would encourage them to come to our forum & see the benefits of the TMX ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on June 28, 2011, 03:12:32 pm
So...is anyone getting one to see what it's like? Like with all kitchen appliances, you get what you pay for - Kitchen Aid still seems to be the benchmark for a stand mixer. Probably better to get what one wants to start with rather than settle for second best - I know that's how I find things - if I don't get what I want, I still hanker for the thing I do want, so now, I just wait until I have have it because any other way, for me, is just a waste of money. Does that make sense? I'm waithing until I can afford that Kitchen Aid, and nothing else will do in the meantime.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Katya on June 28, 2011, 04:55:24 pm
Sounds a good plan Thermomixer - let us know how you get on   ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on June 29, 2011, 07:46:10 am
the thermomix on ebay are yes cheaper but there is warning on the french site about buying them as there have been several cases of people paying and never getting the product...im sure a few are legit but there are alot of scams too!!!  The fact that some things are cheaper in europe or not I think is due to the fact also that it has been around alot longer here ie the thermomix and also you have to take into account the fluctuating conversion rates.  Also is there a factory in oz??  I dont know if there is a factory or not but if not that would also explain additional cost...France has its own factory...
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on June 29, 2011, 09:49:16 am
No factory in Oz Frozzie, ALL TMX's are assembled in France  ;) There is a warning on the OZ site too
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on June 29, 2011, 02:08:58 pm
No factory in Oz Frozzie, ALL TMX's are assembled in France  ;) There is a warning on the OZ site too

all thx's in the world or just for oz??? being german owned i thought there would have to be a factory in germany also??  The factory in France is about an hour from where I live!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on June 29, 2011, 05:23:26 pm
No factory in Oz Frozzie, ALL TMX's are assembled in France  ;) There is a warning on the OZ site too

all thx's in the world or just for oz??? being german owned i thought there would have to be a factory in germany also??  The factory in France is about an hour from where I live!

No other factories, all Thermomix are constructed in France  :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on June 29, 2011, 05:36:29 pm
didnt know that...my consultant never mentioned it either!!  Always learning something  ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on June 30, 2011, 12:23:27 am
I would much prefer to spend the extra few $$ to buy directly from Thermomix than one from eBay. I think when your spending that much money you really need the peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong that help is only phone call away. With eBay you would have to send emails and hope that they contact you back. But with out a warranty what can they do except replace the Thermomix, and I'm sure that wouldn't happen.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Vonnie on July 08, 2011, 12:00:42 pm
Just found these today in House Store ,first thing i noticed was there was no reverse button and that it looked like the older version they r doing an in store demo next week, might go see what it can do and report back, but with no reverse its not gonna be much in my house i use it all the time
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: zebraa on July 08, 2011, 02:36:46 pm
Gee for $800 I can see why people would be tempted. I wonder if it is as good?

A friend couldn'f afford a KitchenAID so bought a Kendwood Chef ($500) and found it simply couldn't deal with kneading bread so was very unhappy with it and ended up buying the KitchenAID after all................ in that case, def not a cheap option!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on July 08, 2011, 03:17:05 pm
That's why i bought a Bamix after my first one died - I had a look at the cheaper ones on the market and there was a reason why they were cheaper. I know lots of people are happy with other stick blenders, but because I had a Bamix from the start, I don't think I could go to anything less.

I think once the Thermochef gets a foothold, it will attract a part of the market, but $800 is still a lot of money. I wouldn't want to risk spending $800 to find that I still want the tm. Choice needs to do a test drive if no one on the forum can enlighten us/want's to get one. I really want to know what the thermochef is like.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Judydg on July 08, 2011, 04:03:17 pm
Well I certainly hope it isn't as good, having just ordered my thermomix!! I must admit though I do think we are overcharged here given current exchange rates. I considered getting my mum to buy me on in the UK and bring it out! But I thought it better to have local support and also I suppose warranty would not be valid here.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Cuilidh on July 08, 2011, 10:00:32 pm
Judydg, a little while ago someone else contemplated purchasing a machine from overseas, but it's not as simple as that.  You are right about the lack of a local consultant and warranty, but there may be issues with our electric current and, on top of that you would be faced with the problem of shipping a fragile machine across the world and the costs of clearing it once it arrives in Australia and having to pay GST at point of entry as well.  It's best to "buy local" - even if it does hurt the pocket, it is safer in the long run.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on July 09, 2011, 01:53:31 am
I don't bother buying electricals overseas now - Australia's actually not too bad, especially with the techy stuff, and yes, I want a valid warranty and that's why there is a premium we pay. I think tms in the UK only have a one year warranty, and if that's the case, that bit extra is for the warranty.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on July 09, 2011, 08:38:49 am
dont now abut the UK but France has a 2 year warranty...
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Cornish Cream on July 09, 2011, 08:49:14 am
You get a two year warranty in the UK for domestic use,but only one year warranty for commercial use.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: kateincottesloe on July 12, 2011, 12:07:48 pm
I saw one in action recently.  Comparing this product to the TM31 is not comparing apples with apples.  It simply doesn't do the same job nor does it approach the same quality. Plastic components of in the TC do not display food safe symbols.  The TC warranty CLAIMS to be 2 years but in the fine print says 12 months. Purchasing this would prove to be a false economy I think.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Cuilidh on July 12, 2011, 08:51:30 pm
Kate, welcome to the forum and thanks for your input on the Thermochef.  There is a song sung by Tom Waits that has the lyrics "The big print giveth and the small print taketh away", looks very much like the Thermochef warranty!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on July 13, 2011, 07:02:20 am
Welcome to the forum kateincottesloe.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: elleandsam on July 13, 2011, 08:25:13 am
Like moat things in life, you get what you pay for.  I worked in industrial kitchens for years in my life before children and the low cost equipment just doesn't go the distance.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: LeeJ on July 16, 2011, 04:58:46 am
Hadn't bothered looking, but curiosity got the better of me.

It is so similar to the THX design! I too am surprised it got around copyright.

I'm afraid the reverse function is a something I use very regularly, so that is a major pitfall for me.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on July 16, 2011, 08:42:48 am
Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. 

Exactly!

I had a look at it today in Matchbox at Torquay.   Well, to start with, the shop assistant was such a sour-puss (a mature aged sour-puss).....and I'm sure she had way too many lemons for breakfast  :-))

Any way, I had a good look, and my first impressions were although some parts looked a little similar, the quality of the plastic was cheap to feel and seemed flimsy and light.  There wasn't a reverse function, and the steaming basket was stainless....like the varoma.  Not only would they get too hot and pose a burning threat, I would have to question if food would stick to it also.
The scales surface looked small, and is not convenient having to weigh in separately, instead of adding it all into the jug directly.
The plastic casing and window for the button component also looked cheap and nasty.
The sour-puss assistant came over, and told me how wonderful they are......but when I asked her questions, she didn't have a clue.  I found that quite unbelievable, as it was priced at $795.00, you would think that they had some product knowledge or training.   I know I would not feel confident purchasing anything for that amount, and being told "I'm not sure" on how it worked.

I asked if it had a a reverse function like the thermomix, and she couldn't tell me if it did or didn't.  She then said it was exactly like a thermomix.......I said no it wasn't.......she gave me a filthy look......I walked out the store  :-))
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on July 16, 2011, 08:54:22 am
Yes, they shouldn't mess with our Thermomix  >:( >:( ;) ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Cuilidh on July 16, 2011, 09:20:05 pm
Great pun, JD
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Twitterpated on July 16, 2011, 10:59:19 pm
Starting to see more and more appliances on the market capitalising on the individual components of the TMX. Just this last week I've seen a soup maker and a hot and cold blender which chops, blends and cooks. Think we going to see a lot more before they're finished.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: elleandsam on July 16, 2011, 11:43:59 pm
I saw the same thing, it looked like it would only really be good for soups so I can't imagine it being very useful.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on July 17, 2011, 03:52:12 am
Yes, I saw the Soup Blender in an advert in a food mag. Pretty basic and not much good for anything else much.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on August 14, 2011, 04:40:08 am
I have gone to check out the Thermochef which is now for sale at Habitat.  While the Thermochef may greatly mimic TMX in appearance, there are glaringly obvious differences that perhaps someone who doesn't own a TMX would not notice.   I have a TMX and am totally in love with it.

I spent a bit of time reading through the Thermochef manual (went back twice just to satisfy my curiosity).  The manager at Habitat was also interested in learning the differences between the two.  The Thermochef demonstrator lady is going to the store next week to do a  demo for her and the staff.  The Thermochef demonstrator had told the the manager that the TMX is made in Switzerland!!!

This is what I discovered.

1.  The plastic looks cheap and far less robust.  The manual/recipe book has been poorly translated from spanish and states the lid, butterfly and spatula are made from "highly qualified materials".  There does not appear to be any foodsafe symbols either.

2.  The are not many recipes in the recipe section, say maybe 50.  In the bread, pastry and cakes section, there is not one bread recipe.  The closest to a bread recipe would be pizza dough.   There is a video on you tube which shows the recipe book and states the book has over 200 recipes,  the visual is all in Spanish. 

3.  The slowest speed of the blade is 100rpm (TMX is 40rpm),  the fastest speed is 8700rpm (TMX 10200rpm).  There is no information in the manual what kind of motor the Thermochef has.  As there is no reverse function I would have to actually see what the result of say, a basic chicken curry would turn out like.  The blade is similar in appearance but noticeably poorer quality and smaller.

4.  Using the Thermochef requires a lot more button pushing than the TMX.  Setting the timer is the same.  To set the temperature, you need to press the temp symbol, then push the plus (+) button repeatedly until you get to the desired temperature.  To select the speed, select the relevant symbol, the repeatedly push the plus (+) button until you get to the desired speed.  Not sure how well this would work with really short processes like chopping onion etc.

5.  There are no instructions for converting your own recipes. The cord is not retractable.

6.  For people who want to mill their own grains I am not sure if the Thermochef is capable of doing this, as there are no recipes in the book.

7.  The seal is attached to the lid and is made out of some sort of rubber.  So if anything happens to the rubber, you would have to get a new lid.  The TMX has a removable seal which can be replaced at a cost of about $20.

Anyway, for those of you contemplating a purchase of one sort or another hope this info is helpful.  Obviously the price difference between the two is the major factor.  If you are expecting that the Thermochef is capable of doing everything a Thermomix does and is as easy to use and as long lasting from what I have read in the manual,  found on the web and have the good fortune of having a Thermomix to compare it to, all I can say is "you get what you pay for".
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on August 14, 2011, 05:41:56 am
Thanks for all that info Therminator, I noticed the thermochef on the front page of the Habitat catalog as well. I would like to see it in action as well just to see the difference. I would never buy one now I have a Thermomix and know how good they are but I could understand someone else buying them if they have never really seen a Thermomix. I am just glad that I found the Thermomix before I found the Thermochef as the price of the Thermochef might of won me over first.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on August 14, 2011, 09:10:35 am
Thanks for that Therminator - very interest reading.  The homewares shop I was in the other day told me they will be selling them shortly as well.  I'll keep popping in until I see one, just for interest sake.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on August 14, 2011, 11:28:07 am
Choice review for Thermomix is here (http://www.choice.com.au/reviews-and-tests/household/kitchen/benchtop-appliances/thermomix-review.aspx)

and for Thermochef is ... I did read one, will post it when I find it again  :-))

and for MyCook is here (http://www.choice.com.au/reviews-and-tests/household/kitchen/benchtop-appliances/mycook-domestic-review.as)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on August 23, 2011, 09:15:44 am
Did anyone happen to see the Thermochef demonstrated on TVSN today??
OMG.....it was better than a comedy show  ;D

The guy demonstrating it, obviously wasn't very familiar with the machine!
It started from the very beginning, when couldn't get the machine to function.  After several attempts, he realised it was on lock mode  :P
Next he fumbled with the lid on a couple of occassions, trying to get it to lock in place.....then he couldn't get the jug to release from the base  :o
He then went on to use the steamer (which BTW, only works if it's locked in).....he couldn't get that to lock into place.
By now I was even feeling uncomfortable for him (whilst giggling).
He made Anzac biscuits, and I noticed he set it for 1 minute longer than he should have......result was dough.
Everything he had pre-weighed, showed a different figure on the scales  :-\

But the show stopper was, they banged on about how wonderful the sorbet is and that sells the machine itself......Well......he couldn't get the speed right....he fumbled about and made a few attempts to get it working.......then he mutters "Bugger, I've forgotton how to do it!"   LOL!
Luckily the host was good, and she diverted attention away from it all.
He finally got it to work, but it looked like soup  :P........I think he needs a new job!

BTW, they were comparing it to another machine on the market that sells for $2000-$3000  ???  Not sure where the 3K comes into it all????

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on August 23, 2011, 10:57:09 am
Oh dear.

I wish I could see it.  Maybe might feature on one of the morning shows eventually.  Will keep my eye out.

Thanks for sharing.  I am not afraid to admit I have a severe case of Thermomixamotsis.  I will never be cured.  I love him!!



Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on August 23, 2011, 12:33:32 pm
Oh dear.

I wish I could see it.  Maybe might feature on one of the morning shows eventually.  Will keep my eye out.

Thanks for sharing. 

I'm thinking they won't replay it with that dude again  :P
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on August 23, 2011, 02:02:01 pm
Can't believe they had him on the first time - has it been put on you tube yet?
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on August 24, 2011, 08:42:20 am
Yay.....someone else saw it! LOL
What an embarrassment.....but it was entertaining if nothing else  :P
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nazar on August 24, 2011, 10:39:59 pm
hi maddy    l need a good laugh    :) did you say  it was on you tube  if so can you give me the link  thanks
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on August 25, 2011, 12:46:32 am
Sorry Nazar...it was on tvsn live.
If the company had any brains, they wouldn't have it replayed again  ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Food 4 Thought on August 25, 2011, 02:49:18 am
Certainly are questions from potential buyers out there about this amchine.  I have had a couple this week alone.  Interesting to see what will come of it  :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Belle75 on September 13, 2011, 06:34:04 am
Hello,

I work for an Online Kitchenware shop and we are now selling the ThermoChef. The price is $795.

We are actually having a demo on Thursday from our suppliers so I am very interested to see how it compares with the Thermomix.

I love my Thermomix so am very interested to see how they compare.

Annabel
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 13, 2011, 07:17:10 am
That would be interesting Annabel,
You will have to keep us posted.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on September 13, 2011, 12:03:22 pm
Yes, please.  Keep us posted.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Penji on September 13, 2011, 02:51:52 pm
I know I am probably preaching to the choir but I hope everyone who uses ebay does use Paypal I know an awful lot of my daughters friends don't and they have been caught out and no hope of a refund but with Paypal you are insured, just thought I would throw that in the mix.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: passionflower on September 13, 2011, 03:39:11 pm
Guy Demarle has launched a similar machine as well, this is like the Thermomix and supposedly cooks faster as it cooks by induction or something or the other, not really interested as I got my boy .
http://www.cookin-guydemarle.com/pages/fr/demonstration.php
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on September 14, 2011, 02:35:47 am
I've just been researching both the TMX and the TC for my daughter. She's on a fixed income and is looking at the TC because it's so much cheaper.

After looking at the TC sites and info, I advised her to go with the cheaper one as on a few forums I found people were saying they couldn't see any difference: Like this one (http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1739562)

Then I came over here and read Maddy's review and sent her that link too. Thanks so much Maddy!
I also sent the Choice review for the TMX. Wish they'd hurry up and do one for the TC.

I haven't had a chance to see it live. I've totally confused her now!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: CreamPuff63 on September 14, 2011, 02:52:08 am
Received a newsletter today from Everton Online (Australian company) $795 + $6.90 flat rate shipping australia wide. If you are one of the first 12 purchasers you get bonus accessories pack worth $50.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on September 14, 2011, 03:38:36 am
CP, I just received that Everton email too. I really want to know how well heavy-duty things like kneading bread would go in the Thermochef. Trouble is, I'd have to get one into my kitchen to give it the same treatment as I give my TMX bread - a 5-minute knead, which is much longer than at the demos. And do it almost every day, as I do now.  I guess we really won't know for a couple of years - I wonder how long the Thermochef will last in comparison to the TMX?

I guess it is a bit like washing machines. We all have them and they all do the job, mostly reasonably well. However, I'm still really glad I paid a higher price for a respected expensive brand (German, by the way!) which experience has proven will outlast at least three of the cheaper comparision brands that my friends have bought and replaced over the years I've owned it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Belle75 on September 14, 2011, 04:04:36 am
That's the company I work for Everten Online!! Demo is tomorrow so will let you all know how it goes. Already had a phone call to ask the difference between them, think I will be getting a few more of those calls!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: fundj&e on September 14, 2011, 04:42:42 am
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#!/ThermoChef.HK

i am loking into it. i need one for when i am in bali.hopefully by feb 2012 was going to take TM but now i thinking maybe this will do :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on September 14, 2011, 06:01:22 am
I've just been researching both the TMX and the TC for my daughter. She's on a fixed income and is looking at the TC because it's so much cheaper.

After looking at the TC sites and info, I advised her to go with the cheaper one as on a few forums I found people were saying they couldn't see any difference: Like this one (http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1739562)

Then I came over here and read Maddy's review and sent her that link too. Thanks so much Maddy!
I also sent the Choice review for the TMX. Wish they'd hurry up and do one for the TC.

I haven't had a chance to see it live. I've totally confused her now!

MJ
 I would get her to wait for interest free for the Tm and do that. I have heard a story of a DH who broke their tc on the first use :0 plus the blade is not submersible at all.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on September 14, 2011, 06:38:38 am
Yes, I've told her to start a savings account and put $50 a week into it until she has enough. Perhaps the interest free option will be better for her.

Another plus for her is that she didn't want to have a demo. I told her she doesn't need to, she's been to one here and I'm sure the Katanning distributor would sell her one without a demo.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on September 14, 2011, 06:42:03 am
She only has to have a demo MJ if she wants her thermoserver, otherwise she can just order one  ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on September 14, 2011, 06:48:22 am
MJ woudl definately tell her to go thermomix..better to wait out for the superieur product...imo  :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: shanmac on September 15, 2011, 06:27:32 am
Thanks for all the great research as I am still to book that demo & had seen the Thermochef advertised. The $$ is definitely an attraction but I will take the advice of those who have a TMX & simply go with the best.

You do get what you pay for.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 15, 2011, 07:59:47 am
I would of been tossing up between the TM and TC if they were both available before I bought my TM. And I'm not sure which one I would of brought either if I had the choice without knowing a lot about them both. But I am so glad I got my TM and that I didn't have a choice of 2. My opinion would be if you can afford to do it by the TM because you will never regret your purchase. But I am saying this as I don't know a lot about the TC but am certain it wouldn't be as good as the TM.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Belle75 on September 15, 2011, 10:40:27 am
Hello,
Ok so we had our TC demo today. It was very interesting to see as they have obviously copied the TM! The steamer insert is the same shape and style but it is stainless steel. The jug looks the same with the same markings inside and the blade looks similar as well. The blade locks in differently though, it has a flat round part that locks it into place.

The jug can not be placed in the dishwasher and can not really be submerged into water.

The lid has a long suction seal to it which is one whole unit so it can not be taken off and washed but the lid is able to go into the dishwasher.

The recipes they have are very similar to the TM and it does a lot of what the TM does but it is quieter than the TM. I believe this is because the TM has more rpm.

There is no reverse blade action but they have a butterfly too which is used instead of the reverse action.

The TC has just push buttons, so you need to constantly push buttons to select speed, temp and time etc. You do not need to set the time to cook. I do think the TM is a lot easier to select the temp and speed etc. 

At the end of the day, if you really like the TM but really can't afford it, this is a good substitute, it will do pretty much everything that the TM will do. Will it last as long? Only time will tell.

We are getting the chance to take the TC home and try it out so I have invited my friend who is a Junior leader, and we are going to try the same recipes and compare the results.

Will keep you posted!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Belle75 on September 15, 2011, 10:43:22 am
I forgot toad that their "Vahroma" is a stainless steel base, which sits into the jug instead of on top of the lid. It has a rubber seal that is fixed on to it's base.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on September 15, 2011, 11:22:40 am
Thanks for the review, and lucky you being able to compare both first hand. It sounds very much like the other TM21 imitations I've seen.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 15, 2011, 11:22:59 am
Very interesting to know thanks Belle. I hope that it will last well for those that buy it. Good to have another kitchen whizz that is more affordable than the TM. Like you said only time will tell how good it is.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on September 15, 2011, 12:52:30 pm
I'll be really interested to hear the results of the comparison! Thanks Belle
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on September 15, 2011, 02:08:30 pm
What did they cook at the demo?

There are 2 Thermochef sites I have found on Facebook.  Thermochef Hong Kong and Thermo chef Natura. (yes there is a space between thermo and chef!).

The Hong Kong site has been getting questions from people living in Australia.  One in particular I noticed is that the HK site said that the TC comes with a recipe book with approx 200 recipes.  I have checked out the Australian manual/recipe book and there would have been 70 or 80 recipes at the very most, a rough guess, but certainly not 200. 

How do you clean it if you can't submerge it in water, what about cleaning the blade?

There was a post on the Thermo chef natura site from someone that had problems with hers and had to get a new one (under warranty).  I posted a question asking her what had happened and within an hour or so, her comment and my question had been deleted....mmmmm.

Can't wait to see how the two compare when they're in action, please keep us posted Belle75!!

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: fundj&e on September 15, 2011, 02:11:08 pm
New member just joined that has a TC  on the welcome page
ops wrong page (introduce yourself)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Belle75 on September 15, 2011, 02:23:56 pm
They said to clean you put the water inside the jug with a few drops of detergent and whizz it. If there is quite a build up of cooked food at the bottom then you can heat it for a bit to lift the food off.

The blade can be taken off and placed in the dishwasher.

This one was the Natural Thermo chef

They did a raspberry sorbet, mayo, béchamel, pesto, lemon pudding and started a pumpkin soup.

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Daisy on September 15, 2011, 04:53:29 pm
My mother in law bought a TC but we have been unable to compare it to my TM as she had to get a replacement blade - a welded lug on the base had sheared off which she discovered while washing it for the very first time. She is awaiting the new one and has not been able to cook anything or even use it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 15, 2011, 11:24:35 pm
Oh that's a shame Dasiy. Hope she gets it replaced quickly. Nothing more annoying than buying somethingand finding a fault and not being able to use it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on September 16, 2011, 04:24:36 am
oh thats not a good start !
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: leesmac78 on September 16, 2011, 05:24:45 am
I havent seen the TC here in Germany.  I will have a peek.  The nearest thing other than a Thermomix that I would personally buy is the fancy new Kenwood that has induction cooking facilities.  At least it is a brand that I know and can trust.  Have a Google loves - it is quite beautiful!

xxx

 ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on September 18, 2011, 06:53:27 am
I've just bought the TC, again a budget decision...i have a daughter marrying soon, followed by my son and a daughter a uni with a only a 3hr part-time "job"
I was home sick and saw the TC on daytime TV - it was a reasonable demo, not like the one previously mentioned as a comedy act, ha ha.
I had previously seen the TM at a workshop (i am a Home Ec. teacher) and of course just LOVED It!

So...i've had it only about a week, and still feeling not great, so used it a little.
So far i'm happy with it although the Bread thing is a compromise as the TC will only knead for 2 minutes at a time with a rest of 1 min between kneads.
Also when i tried your TM 5 Seed mix bread, the TC  just couldn't knead it at all, in fact i wondered if it was broken already, omg.
Anyway i took out the mixture and did it in 3 batches then hand kneaded the 3 portions together, which really only took a very little time and effort.
The bread turned out fine, however it would be easier obviously in the TM.

I did a risotto, which was lovely from out TC cook book, even hubby liked it and he's not that into risotto.
Loved the mash potato too, i usually use a ricer, and always worry about "beating" cooked potatoes so that they don't turn gluggy but this was really creamy and yummy.
Photo of the bread....

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 18, 2011, 07:15:49 am
That's a great looking loaf Marie. Well done. Sounds like the TC is not so good for heavy doughs but at least you can over come that. For the price of the TC you can't expect it will do everything the TM can handle. But a bit of trial and error will let you work out how much you can do. Good luck and enjoy your new kitchen helper.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on September 18, 2011, 07:19:23 am
Thanks Dede,
Yes of course you are right.
And I'm looking forward to "playing" with the TC

I'm forming a cunning plan, that when I'm all over my expenses, perhaps i'll "gift" the TC
to one of the kids and get myself a TM..

Course if i have more successes with the TC who knows? :-)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: dede on September 18, 2011, 09:23:43 am
Lol. I like the way you work Marie. Lol. At least you have the TC to keep you happy until then.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on September 21, 2011, 01:05:49 pm
Thanks for that review Marie. Hope you are feeling better and you and your TC have many good adventures!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on September 21, 2011, 01:44:29 pm
Thanks,
I've been enjoying trailing through this great site.
What a wealth of great recipes, ideas and chat.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Sim on September 23, 2011, 03:01:51 am
I got a chance to play with the TC last night. I'm a TM owner and my friend has always thought the TM was a great appliance but didn't want to spend the big bucks on it, so a few ago she bought a TC. We made Beef Rendang from the TM book but using the TC to cook it.

It's obvious with the price difference that there is going to be a few differences between the two. I think the TC is still a good purchase and a handy kitchen appliance. If you had never used a TM you would think its a super-duper appliance. It was hard for me because I kept using it like a TM, so I was slow and clunky.

Coming from the perspective of a TM owner, there were a few of things I noticed when comparing it to the TM

• The slowest speed is considerably faster – not as gentle.
• It took a little longer to make the paste from the first stage of the TM Beef Randang recipe, didn't to seem to chop as well.
• Unless I was doing it wrong, one thing that really bugged me was if you stop it to check the cooking progress before the timer finishes it resets the time, temperature and speed and you have to re-enter it all again.
• Motor sounded very different and was louder – more like a standard blender
• You can't immerse the jug in water so it's harder to wash
• Lid was harder to lock in and I didn't enjoy using it very much. I really like the TM's lid system.

But overall I think it's a decent purchase. I think she'll get alot of use out of it. These differences are relatively minor when you're saving so much money.

I'm still happy I have a TM though, but I'm not so good at budgets hehe
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on September 23, 2011, 08:40:49 am
If that's the case, I would be hankering after the tm. I stil haven't got my KA and know if I got anything less, I'd still want the KA, so I couldn't settle for the tc. I'm like that with so many things; everyone is different,  but for me, I know it will cost me more if I got the tc because I'd still be wanting the tm in the long run.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: shanmac on September 23, 2011, 09:33:29 am
Thanks for the detailed report Sim - good to know from someone who has a TM & used the TC for an insight into the value. :)

Makes it easier for people like me that hasn't had a demo & saw the TC advertised and thought .......
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Emma H on September 25, 2011, 12:49:35 am
I went to a thermochef demo yesterday (already ordered my TMX)
I didn't like the lid, have to push it doen and locks in front and back, she struggled a few times, also the bowl won't come out unless you press the button to release it.
It was louder, and I even smelt that hot appliance smell when she was just whipping cream.
Didn't like how many buttons to press to set temp/blade speed abs time, and that beeping everytime u push those buttons. And like someone else said if you stop it to check something you need to re put in temp speed and time

I didn't stay for the whole think as my parking was up (thought it went for 2 not 3 hours)
Seamed to so everything okay, but she did admit there are things it doesn't compare to the TMX, but on budget it does a lot of it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Sim on September 25, 2011, 10:14:48 pm
The buttons annoy me too!

Another thing – if it's over 60ºC it doesn't go over speed 5. It means that if you're making soup, you have to wait for it too cool down to blend it really smooth. It's a safety thing, which is strange because the blades don't have to been spinning for the bowl to heat up which seams 'unsafe' to me because you can burn things easily!

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: ladyaimee on September 26, 2011, 08:26:31 am
Thanks for all the information, I understand there re so many TX lovers who wouldnt dream of recommending the TC but nice to here some more unbiased reviews for those who may only be able to afford the TC!

Just curious to anyone who has a TC, if the TX recipes are transferrable?

Thanks :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: ladyaimee on September 26, 2011, 08:29:36 am
oops forgot my second question, for anyone who has one!

I heard the lowest cooking temperature isnt as low with the TM, so just curious as to whether its still good to use as a slowcooker (ie, leave a dish on for 8 hours and it wont ever boil)

thanks!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Sim on September 26, 2011, 08:38:00 am
oops forgot my second question, for anyone who has one!

I heard the lowest cooking temperature isnt as low with the TM, so just curious as to whether its still good to use as a slowcooker (ie, leave a dish on for 8 hours and it wont ever boil)

thanks!

Hey Aimee – it has the same temperature increments as the TM – so that's 37, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100. I think it has a separate steaming one too like the TM which is hotter.

And yeah, I'm totally bias! haha. My main frustrations with the machine are because I try and use it as though it is a TM when it's not, and when it doesn't work the same way and the buttons are in different places, I get frustrated. A bit like when you use a different microwave etc.

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on September 26, 2011, 09:54:18 am
I've been trying some of the recipes here on my TC and they have been fine.
Of course i'm a bit stumped with recipes that call for Reverse, as the TC doesn't have Reverse however if only part of the recipe requires reverse i just use the slowest speed 1.
I imagine recipes that totally rely on reverse would not work well or perhaps not at all!

I'm not bothered with the buttons, they seem quite easy and logical to use.
My husband has tried it and also thinks its easy to use.
My girls 18 + 22 have had a quick play and think its pretty "cool"
The 22 yo showed it to her fiance and said "this the machine that does everything but wipe your bu*t " :o

The lid is OK to use if you use both your hands - i've seen the Thermomix demo and You Tube demos and the TM does look easier to use.
But the price difference is huge, so these are small compromises, i think in view of that.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: achookwoman on September 26, 2011, 12:03:40 pm
Marie2mil,  there is nothing wrong with the break in the kneading process,  provided the machine can cope with the dough.  Infact Dan Lepard,  (my bread hero) recommends it. 
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on September 26, 2011, 12:13:25 pm
Thanks achookwoman for your re-assurances.
The first time i tried the 5 seed loaf i don't think i measured it properly - too eager by half.
The next time i tried it, the process was much smoother, although after the second 2 min knead, the mixture became a bit heavy and landed mostly to one side of the bowl so i got an error message, but that was OK because it really had finished the process and it was ready to prove.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Tenina on September 26, 2011, 03:15:51 pm
The nice people over at Thermo Chef have sent me one to play with guys, so I will be posting some recipes and a bit of a comparison on my blog between the two….there are a couple of nice features on it that TMX doesnt have..but by and large it is annoying to use after TMX…which like someone else said is really just like getting to know your new microwave…I suspect I will not switch camps at this stage! hahaha  I will persist though!

I will keep you posted!  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Master Moderator on September 26, 2011, 09:55:41 pm
Please keep us posted Tenina!!! Dying to have your "official" feedback on Thermomchef... They are starting to appear in Portugal also. They are advertising in magazines... Is the sales process the same as Vorwerk, or is it more of a direct sales system?


Can't wait for your "have a bash" on the new machine!!!

Thanks

Admin
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: fundj&e on September 26, 2011, 10:03:09 pm
You can buy them online or in stores.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Frozzie on September 27, 2011, 06:05:29 am
what are the non thermie features Tenina?  Nothing has impressed me so far like thermie has... :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on September 27, 2011, 08:20:58 am
Looking forward to your report, Tenina. Thanks.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on October 11, 2011, 12:18:10 pm
Tenina,

Waiting for your report on the Thermochef.   Not here to bag it out.  I was in a homeware store on Saturday and the late 20 something guy asked the assistant if they sold a Thermomix.

She said "no, we have a Thermochef which is exactly the same and less than half the price".

Insert raised shackles here.

Would love to know how you went/are going with the most amazing wonderful TC.  Sorry, I'm a protective of Thermie x
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on October 11, 2011, 12:21:08 pm
Did you bite your tongue Therminator or drag that guy aside and have a quiet word with him ;)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on October 11, 2011, 01:26:48 pm
I had quiet word with him and excused myself for ear-wigging.

Couldn't help myself :(
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: leesmac78 on October 11, 2011, 08:22:52 pm
I would have done the same!!!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on October 12, 2011, 09:10:07 am
  I was in a homeware store on Saturday and the late 20 something guy asked the assistant if they sold a Thermomix.

She said "no, we have a Thermochef which is exactly the same and less than half the price".

Insert raised shackles here.

LOL.....I had the same experience, and I did speak up  :P
the reaction was a scowley expression with a tinge of roll-eye  :-))

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Thermobudgie on October 18, 2011, 07:31:02 am
Hi there

I thought I'd offer a bit of what I know about the TC. I babysat a friends TM for a few months and when I had to give her baby back I was devastated! That was a couple of years ago, the price was just too much for me so I kind of forgot about it all together. I love cooking and enjoyed the process so figured I could live without it. Then recently I went to a TM demo and the fire was reignited, oh dear! I still could not justify the price tag. A friend mentioned that there was a competitor out there and I promptly got myself to a demo. I thought the TC was very similar to TMX but couldn't really tell what the food was like as we were unable to taste. I've since been to 2 more TMX demos and both were rather uninspiring, luckily I knew it was failure on the demonstrators part and not the machine. So the universe took care of my indecision for me and the thermochef turned up in my kitchen one day all by it's self!

So far I have been cooking only TMX recipes with it as the TC recipe book is, well, it's really sh$t! I haven't had any dramas so far, but this could be because I am a competent home cook and am not afraid to do a bit of my own tweaking. the 5 seed loaf was the first thing I made and it was just perfect. I've adjusted the custard temp down to 80 as it burnt to the bottom of the jug at higher temps.

Pros - more affordable
No need to convert TMX recipes
Lid easier to use than TMX
Not as noisy
Scales on side
Appears to be solid and well built, as i'd expect as $800 is still a lot of money.

Cons - it's not a TMX  :D
No reverse, it has a butterfly which seems to do the trick
Slowest speed is faster than TMX
Lots of button pushing but you can hold the button down if you don't like to push so much.
Stopping to check seems to stop the settings so you have to reset.
I guess some people would find not being able to put the jug in the dishwasher a con, but I never put my precious kitchen things in the
dishwasher so if I had a TMX it would also be getting washed in the sink.

I guess time will only tell what other differences I notice, perhaps it will have a much shorter life than the TMX? Who knows, but so far I'm really happy with everything it can do and haven't felt sad at all about not having a TMX (which was a concern when I was trying to decide which one to purchase!)

So for anyone who'd love a TMX but doesn't want to spend as much, I think the thermochef is a fine substitute.

Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 18, 2011, 07:37:36 am
Thanks for the feedback,have been waiting to hear from Tenina, love my TMX but nice to have alternative for those unable to afford.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: CreamPuff63 on October 18, 2011, 07:41:21 am
That sounds like a very fair and promising review. I think its great that there is another cheaper option for people who cannot justify the higher price tag, but like the concept of the TM.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on October 18, 2011, 07:47:07 am
Welcome to the forum thermobudgie. Thanks for the review.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on October 18, 2011, 07:50:01 am
Hi Thermobudgie, welcome to the forum.  Thanks for the review & nice to know you can use our recipes with success.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: achookwoman on October 19, 2011, 06:25:58 am
Welcome to the Forum,  TB.  What do you do for reverse?   I use this a lot.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: marie2mil on October 19, 2011, 09:27:13 am
I have a TC and have enjoyed discovering how it all works using a lot of TM recipes.
I find the way the TM recipes read for making Bread...putting everything in at once is not the best as it seems too heavy for my TC so i usually put in all the dry ingredients and give it a quick wizz then have the machine moving briskly and gradually pour the liquid in as its running.
After its all mixed together i use the knead function.
Sometimes i need to re-adjust the mixture as it stops running when the dough is all sitting on one side and its out of balance.
I too have wondered about the reverse and only tried a couple of things and used it on the lowest speed. However i'm sure the TC would not be able to do many recipes that require reverse.
Other than that i'm really pleased with it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 19, 2011, 10:43:07 am
Well it sounds like it is still increasing your enjoyment in the kitchen. I must say I have wondered about getting a TC as a second machine and loving the honest and fair reviews.  I love my TMX and would hate to be without it but don't think I could justify 2 although I would keep them employed. Only a thought at this time. 
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on October 19, 2011, 11:56:21 am
Thanks for the reviews Thermobudgie & Marie. I have been keen to hear from people who are cooking with the TC, so much appreciated.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Therminator on October 19, 2011, 02:09:30 pm
Bedlam,

Do you need a second bowl and blade as opposed to a whole new TC? 

Which one is going to be on the bench?  Book a demo in October and save $200 for the bowl & blade set.

I suppose it depends on the way you cook,  $200 v $795,  welcome to a whole new TC world.   As I hardly use the stove top anymore, I would love to know what the results are, please keep me posted x
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 20, 2011, 12:55:09 am
Bedlam,

Do you need a second bowl and blade as opposed to a whole new TC? 

Which one is going to be on the bench?  Book a demo in October and save $200 for the bowl & blade set.

I suppose it depends on the way you cook,  $200 v $795,  welcome to a whole new TC world.   As I hardly use the stove top anymore, I would love to know what the results are, please keep me posted x


That's the problem I already have 2 bowls and love it and mainly use Thermie, well it's not really a problem. When I have time to cook you get organized and get something going and want to do something else but have to wait.  It's only a dream! And in truth you have jam in 12 minutes and lemon spread etc most things are so quick ...perhaps I am just showing everyone how impatient I am.  I have always been one to cook in mass, have to learn little and often. I always double recipes!
Thanks for you suggestion anyway
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Tenina on October 20, 2011, 03:51:34 am
I had quiet word with him and excused myself for ear-wigging.

Couldn't help myself :(

Hahaha, of course you did! I still have to put it through its paces kids, but will keep you informed. TOO BUSY..doing my book at the moment…getting it out for Christmas…hope to get to TC let next week.
xx
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: CreamPuff63 on October 27, 2011, 03:52:57 pm
As you know I am a big fan of TM. We gave one to DD1 when she turned 21. DD2 was also given the choice of a TM however she has decided to move interstate and as she will be starting from scratch in setting up her own space, and especially seeing as she is a uni student that is committed to study more rather than work on the side more (law degree) she has chosen to accept money instead of a TM which was originally our 21st present.

Why? one of her reasons was she wouldn't be able to buy all the ingredients (poverty). her trade off was they would buy the meat eg. steak/chicken and then have a salad. She is very familiar with TM and the ease of cooking this way. I would rather she continue on the nutrition path rather than deviate on the "old normal way of cooking" through a price and snobbiness that may not be justified ie. she can have a TC and $1000 towards setting up her apartment. For my way of thinking she needs to be able to cook easy healthy meals, and this way she will have $1000 also up her sleeve to set up flat.

You know me...I'm deflated so to speak. I want her to eat properly and she will try  and eat properly, but the thermie way of life has given us an easy way of eating healthily. She needs a TM but she needs the money also to set up the flat. The TC seems like a good compromise, and once she is on a good income as a lawyer she can go the full monty and buy herself a TM.

a) not sure that bread will be a big thing for her, but getting around this is (let me know)
b) getting around Reverse is using Speed 1

Very interesting topic on this website (http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1739562). Ossie sounds like he is related in some way to the Masur family or is representing them in some way! Can't stand it - he is just heatedly replying to anyone who knocks the TM. Yeah I love the TM too, but whoa I reckon he has some financial interest

What do you think?
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 27, 2011, 06:25:21 pm
CP, can understand your disapoinment and her point of view.  Having a thermochef does seem like second best but it mean healthy eating, gotta be a good thing and let's face it $1000 goes a long way to setting up the rest of the kitchen.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on October 28, 2011, 12:41:30 am
CP, he does go on and on and on and on..... Seems to know a lot about everything and just doesn't give up ;)
I got bored after a while reading all those postings - nice to get back here to our lovely, friendly forum.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 28, 2011, 12:47:49 am
CP, he does go on and on and on and on..... Seems to know a lot about everything and just doesn't give up ;)
I got bored after a while reading all those postings - nice to get back here to our lovely, friendly forum.

Me too Judy, sound like everyone refers to this forum for recipes anyway.we had a big write up in our paper yesterday about TMX they reckon aus and NZ have sold 23000 TMX in the past 12 months.  That's a lot of bucks.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on October 28, 2011, 03:51:32 am
CP, he does go on and on and on and on..... Seems to know a lot about everything and just doesn't give up ;)
I got bored after a while reading all those postings - nice to get back here to our lovely, friendly forum.

Yes, it's a bit full on over there! Couldn't resist putting in my two cents worth though!

Personally I've decided that the two machines are probably a bit like the difference between a 2WD and a 4WD car. Both will get you most places you want to go - when the going gets rough, one will probably do a better job than the other...

But then, not everyone needs a 4WD. Some people do.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on October 28, 2011, 07:50:36 am
Hi everyone,  I am new here and I am also the owner of a Thermo Chef.  My daughter has a Thermomix and as I am retired and living on a pension, the "Chef" was the only version I could afford.  It seems that a lot of people would like a comparison of the two machines, so here's my 2 cents worth.

I attended a Thermo Chef demo last Friday and the lass that demonstrated did an excellent job.  The demo was a 3 hour one, and the menu was as follows:  Fruit Sorbet, Houmus Dip, Peanut Butter, Bread, Asparagus with White Sauce, Rice, Soup (can't remember what sort), and Lemon & Coconut Steamed Puddings with Lemon Syrup.  She finished before the 3 hours were up.  We were able to taste test and everything was yummy.  I purchased my machine at the end of the demo, because I felt the $795.00 price tag was justified.  I received a $50.00 voucher and am awaiting another $40.00 voucher for their VIP customer plan.  Thermomix was mentioned several times, but always in a nice way.  

The main differences I can see are:  

Lack of reverse speed.  The "Chef's" answer to this is the butterfly and speed 1 (which I believe is the way the previous Thermomix handled these jobs"  The butterfly is fitted over the blade.  I have made a few recipes which call for reverse, with no problems at all (thanks of course to your lovely recipes here and yes the recipes are interchangeable).

Apparently the Thermo Chef is not as powerful as Thermomix.  This may be so, but it hasn't caused me any hassles yet.  It still makes lovely bread, I have yet to try mincing meat, but our demonstrator said that meat doesn't present any problems as long as you don't try doing too much at once.

I like the scales being on the side (heavy handed).  If you want to measure directly into the jug you simply put the jug on top of the side scale and zero it out.   And I like the Varoma locking on the top (I am a klutz!).  The temperatures are the same as the Thermomix with a Varoma temperature as well.  Speeds from 1 - 10 plus a turbo button. The bell noise when you push a button drives me mad, so I usually hold it in and advance through the menu quickly and silently.  

Probably the thing that has annoyed me the most is when I made pumpkin soup recently - really nice soup by the way thanks to your recipe site.  It said to blitz the cooked soup going from speed 1 - speed 9 slowly.  Unfortunately I could only go to speed 5.  The Thermo Chef has a built in safety mechanism which stops you going on higher than speed 5 when the food is over 60 degrees in temperature.  I got around this because I cooked my soup first, so was able to put it aside in a pot while I made the rest of my menu, and then finish blitzing it when it had cooled down.  Then when my guests had arrived, my Chef heated the soup up again.  Just a little thing, but annoying.

The blade is removable and everything is washable in the dishwasher except obviously the main body of the machine and the jug (there are electrical sensors underneath the jug).  If things catch on the bottom, which they do occasionally, I haven't had a problem washing it.  Just put a little hot water & detergent in it and push turbo a couple of times, then empty the water and remove the blades (easy) and use a non abrasive cleaning pad such as a Chux to clean the rest off.  I was told an extra jug & blades was going to be available very shortly at a cost of approx $99.00, so that will be really handy.  

The recipe book sucks seriously, very basic and with only a few recipes, but I believe the people at Newwave Appliances are working on a new recipe book to be released sometime in February (hopefully).  Plus the internet is full of lovely recipes for the Thermomix, and as they are interchangeable - no problemo.

As for the warranty, I am sure the 12 months mentioned in the small print is just a typo.  In the main body of the warranty, it guarantees 2 years and later in the small print it states that in the event of a product or accessory being replaced during the warranty, the warranty on the replacement will expire at the original date i.e. "2 years from the original purchase date."  Reading the manual, it seems to me that a lot of it was translated from Spanish to English - and not very well.

We were told that the Thermo Chef was designed in Spain, manufactured in China but has a Japanese motor.  

All in all I am very happy with my machine.  Obviously I would have loved a Thermomix - who wouldn't, but this was not an option for me, so I am very happy to have second best.  I call it second best because I don't believe it is quite as good as the Thermomix - but it's pretty damn good anyway.

Thank you everyone for a really great site, full of wonderful recipes and very nice people.

Cheers, Nola.


Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on October 28, 2011, 08:15:53 am
Hi Nola, thank you so much for that honest and frank comparison and I am pleased that the Thermochef owners are able to use our recipes.  It will be nice to see Thermo Chef bring out their own book(s) though - every appliance should come with a decent recipe book. 
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on October 28, 2011, 08:24:23 am
Quote
Hi Nola, thank you so much for that honest and frank comparison and I am pleased that the Thermochef owners are able to use our recipes.  It will be nice to see Thermo Chef bring out their own book(s) though - every appliance should come with a decent recipe book. 

AMEN to that,  Cheers, Nola.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on October 28, 2011, 12:03:34 pm
Thanks for that review, Nola. I'm so glad this forum is friendly and welcoming to all. Enjoy your new kitchen slave!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Bedlam on October 30, 2011, 09:11:04 pm
Thanks for the review.  I must confess it would be a tempting second best.  I love my Thermomix and feel blessed to be able to afford one. It is such a useful tool everyone deserves that help in the kitchen. And for those with a young family, for when it would be most useful,it is often unaffordable. The Thermochef sounds like a great option.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: CreamPuff63 on October 31, 2011, 12:47:28 am
I went and had a look at them on Saturday, and the girl was saying that you would need to adjust the temperature down on most TM recipes as the TC is a little hotter. Am going to go to an instore demo which is coming up mid November, but so far it looks promising.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: tarasis on October 31, 2011, 07:00:38 pm
Gee that whirlpool thread was ... Um ... fun. Surprised at how rabid some people are and how dismissive they are of the device simply based on cost. Or like Devon claiming they are unknown in Germany.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Cldy on November 01, 2011, 10:47:17 am
Thanks for sharing, especially people who have the Thermochef.

I whole-heartedly support competition and hence believe that the TC can give the thermomix a good run for its money. :) It will at least make service better - if not competitive prices.

I have to confess that I saw the TC being sold at a kitcheware store and while it wasn't a demo, I was happily left to my own devices and was able to inspect every part of the TC from head to toe. I was going to post the differences which I thought I noticed however don't think there's much point to that as a lot of people will probably go and inspect the TC themselves.

My conclusion is that the TC is certainly more affordable and offers a great value at its price, compared to the Thermomix but I did feel that the quality even of just simple things like the spatula and the cover, the metal basket and varoma, were not of as good a quality. So you do get what you pay for. That being said, I am not sure if I would have chosen a thermomix instead of a TC if I haven't bought one just cos I am a stingy poker and will find ways to save money if I can!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on November 09, 2011, 05:20:57 am
Just wondering if one of the ThermoChef owners can comment on how well it mills things like sugar, rice, wheat, seeds, etc? I was just looking at their website and it doesn't actually promote milling as one of the features, although further down in the description it does mention 'grind'.
Thanks.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on November 09, 2011, 06:27:28 am
Yep it mills beautifully.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on November 09, 2011, 06:33:15 am
It's great that you can give us this information Nola. Can you make all sorts of things in it?
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on November 09, 2011, 09:52:34 am
I seem to be getting a good result from everything that I have tried.  Most of the recipes I have made have been of this forum, which I love.  The only failure I have had was today when I tried to make butter.  I got a sort of "whipped buttery cream".  It was probably my own fault because I have been automatically taking everything out of the fridge to bring to room temp before cooking, and I neglected to see that the cream should be chilled.  Oops.  Will have to wait until I can get to the shop to buy more cream, before I know if I can make butter, although the demonstrator did say she makes butter without a problem.  Don't possess any white sugar any more as raw sugar is the answer to all my cooking needs, and so much healthier for you. (if sugar can be healthy).  It performs the same sort of tasks that your lovely Thermie does, but probably is not quite as strong.  It is a good alternative though.

My daughter, who has the Thermomix has a lot to answer for, as it was seeing hers that gave me the bug, but now I wouldn't be without it, and as the Thermomix was out of my league price wise, the "Chef" just fitted in nicely.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: CreamPuff63 on November 09, 2011, 12:08:46 pm
I make sure my water is really cold nola. apparently the older the cream the better the result.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on November 09, 2011, 11:28:01 pm
Didn't even get to the water stage Creampuff.  Separated slightly after 1.5 mins, but then stayed the same, just whipped creamy butter, no buttermilk.  I think it was probably because it was room temp, or possibly because it was thickened cream.  I read on Quirky Cooking (I think) that thickened cream doesn't work sometimes. :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on November 10, 2011, 05:36:24 am
Nola, I made 2 lots of butter last night with thickened cream that was 1 day out of date.  It separated in 1.5 minutes like yours did - I was watching through the hole and you could see little bits of buttermilk then the sound changed so, remembering that you can beat it back in if you go too much longer, I stopped it, tipped it into the steaming basket over a bowl and was very surprised just how much buttermilk I squeezed out.   I ended up with 500mls from 2 x 600ml containers of cream - I did them one at a time. So, maybe you were there and didn't realise it.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on November 10, 2011, 09:59:11 am
Thanks Judy Dawn.  I really don't think so because the sound never changed.  I really think it was because it was room temp and thickened cream.  I have just bought some whipping cream, and will give it a go tomorrow.  I made a lovely batch of cookies with the cream/butter that I made, so it didn't go to waste. :)
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: judydawn on November 10, 2011, 12:16:21 pm
Mine was thickened cream too Nola - have always had success with it.  Let us know how you get on tomorrow with your new lot of cream.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on November 13, 2011, 09:26:49 am
Yay (dancing around the kitchen and looking like a lunatic) it worked. Magical butter, which i mixed with rice bran oil and water to make it spreadable.  Totally awesome ;D.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: rjsj on December 06, 2011, 07:25:55 pm
I held off buying a TM for some time because of the cost.  Bought a few other "cheap" appliances in the meantime but found they were all useless so in the end, bit the bullet and got the TM.  Never looked back.

Compliment to TM that someone tries to copy it, but at the end of the day, I think you get what you pay for and I dont think it will hurt TM as most will either buy good to start with or (like me) buy something useless first and wasting your money!

So happy I now have my TM!!!!!!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: stacelee on December 06, 2011, 09:34:39 pm
I have just purchased a thermochef to trial for possible sale by our business.  I am looking forward to seeing how it works and will be interested to see how it compares to the thermomix.  I suspect talking to different people that thermomix may end up losing a lot of sales to it.  All arguments aside, a lot of people are put off by the party plan style selling of thermomix and the nuisance factor of haviing to deal via phone/email to Western Australia.  I'm sure that people who have good consultants will argue that point, but for people like myself who have never seen the consultant from the day the machine was dropped off.....it is a source of annoyance (an online shop would help greatly!).

I believe that the thermochef has the same warranty as the Thermomix.  It will be interesting to see how well they back that up, particularly as we would be supplying into smaller restaurants and cafes.  Thermomix have been good from my perspective as my TM failed 18 months in and was repaired under warranty quickly and the QLD manager (?) Rosemary was very good in organising it for me.  I think that the "consumables" need possible work.....I am going to have get a new seal which will be my third seal in 26 months of owning the machine and my spatula literally disintegrated.  The spatula should have lasted longer as it was very lightly used as I have spoon spatulas from work that have been used since day one most of the time (and they are all still in good condition)

Cheaper does not always mean nastier.  We deal with a very very wide range of catering equipment and in quite a few cases the cheaper options are just as good as the more expensive and even better.  Markups for "Name" and profit margin in many cases contribute to an item being more expensive and not a price difference for quality.  A lot of the potential success of the Thermochef vs Thermomix will come down to how well Newwave support the product and their dealers.

Have a good day
Stacey
owner of TM, Kenwood Cooking Chef and soon a Thermochef
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: gertbysea on December 06, 2011, 10:17:16 pm
I agree with much of what you say stacelee.  These are two different machines and both deserve consideration  when looking for a kitchen appliance.

It is true that the commissions paid to demonstrators and so on up to the distributor add to the cost of the TMX . It is also true that having on the spot help at point of sale is of great value.

 I could not agree more about some demonstrators having no interest in you after  you buy. We see some of that discussed here on this forum. Also we read here about consultants not being supported by head office in Australia and the occasional turmoil there.

Still,with all that negative, there are some wonderful demonstrators/consultants working very hard in Australia to give great  service despite some handicapping by head office.

This forum is also a great help for us all and the discussions can be lively and  useful as well as a lot of  fun.

Personally I hope the Thermochef does well in Australia. Horses for courses.  You are so right in saying cheaper is not always nastier. Deduct costs, commissions and markups on any product and you get an idea what any product may be worth. 

I bought a popular quality bra last week for $70 and was told by my friend  the shop assistant that the bra was bought into the shop  for only $5. How about that for a markup. I was not uplifted by that disclosure.

My best wishes to you.

Gretchen
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: achookwoman on December 06, 2011, 10:41:24 pm
Gert, witty as usual ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: faffa_70 on December 06, 2011, 11:03:29 pm
Agree with you also Stacelee ...  one thing I don't understand though is you say it is an issue to deal with head office as it is in Perth. Can I ask what difference this makes?

To me it really is no different to all the head offices we from Perth have to deal with that are on the East Coast  ??? ???
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: stacelee on December 06, 2011, 11:34:04 pm
I think my issue is more that there is only one place in Australia that you can go to to get "things" that you need.  Its not so much that it is in WA but that it is not a wander into the shops or onto a website and buy thing for me.  I am fairly time poor and hate going shopping and not being able to get exactly what I need then and there or being able to get onto a website, click a few buttons and have something on its way to me.  I am very very spoilt with a lot of kitchenware that I only need to wander downstairs from my office and pick up whatever I need from the shelves (which reminds me I need to get a pallet (sp?) knife.  If I want something for my Kenwood, I only have to send an email to our supplier (as I said, I'm spoilt).

Ideally what  I would love to see is Thermomix putting up an ecommerce site that you could order seals, books, spatulas, mats etc etc etc....and even better where you could purchase and instantaneously download ebook versions of the cookbooks.  I would own EVERY one of the cookbooks if that was the case.  I have actually scanned in all of my cookbooks that I own for the thermomix so that I don't have to have them open on the counter....I use my iPad constantly in the kitchen.....which reminds me...anyone who has an iPad and likes Donna Hay, the current and previous magazines are currently free in her iPad app.   I'm sure that there would be other people who would like to use their kindle, iPad or other variety of ereader to store their cookbooks.

Part of my problem is pure laziness....it is an effort to figure out when someone is likely to be in head office to phone them to order what I need.....part of it is annoyance with the prices....my spoon spatulas are a lot cheaper :).  It will be interesting to see with the Thermochef if anyone stocks "accessories" as standard.  I know that we don't for the Kenwoods or Kitchenaids, we order on request.....but we normally can get them overnight.  I'm going to have to bite the bullet soon because my current seal is beginning to leak so a phone call to WA is in my future.....actually maybe I'll make it now :P.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on December 06, 2011, 11:41:35 pm
Stacelee you should get on to that seal. It can lead to problems if you are getting constant leaks from your seal.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Deeau on December 07, 2011, 12:25:24 am
I don't by any means want to bag the TC but feel as people would be reviewing this machine by reading this forum I should put this info "out there' I  recently purchased a product made by the same company as the TC and it took 4 of the items before I got one that worked correctly, these probelms were straight out of the box. 2 of the 3 replacements had minor problems with the electronic controls ( the other one I was sent didn't work at all I think I was sent a faulty item by mistake ) I will say that the customer service ( I ended up dealing direct with New Wave ) was excellent and they did send me an extra product in the end to make up for the incovience, I also love the item they sent me. BUT saying all that as much as I love what the product does,  I really don't have the confidence in it long term, this item was a fraction of the cost of the TC so long term for me is not as big a deal. I will also admit that I had an electronic problem with my TM when it was about 4 months old that was repaired and have never had an issue since (almost 2 years now) 
So I  give the company high credit for customer service it was excellent but at the same time if I didn't love how this product worked ( and that it was not alot of money ) I would have sent it back for a refund after the 2nd faulty item.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on December 07, 2011, 12:41:32 am
Personally I think competition is healthy. We all love our machines no matter if its a TMX, TC or Kenwood or even a hand beater. We must love cooking to be here in the first place.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on December 07, 2011, 12:42:58 am
Stacelee, I would love to have you do a comparison of all three products for us! I'm interested in what the Cooking Chef can do too, as well as the TC.

My interaction with TM head office was very efficient (all by email, including me emailing photos of the damage that I caused when a visitor didn't put the jug together properly). Within 5 days of the problem occurring, we had corresponded about the damage, they had assessed the photos and sent me replacement parts (to the east coast). I agree though, it would be nice if they had a recipe book and parts ordering service on their website, as I don't see any need to involve a consultant in that.

However, TM's growth is so phenomenal at the moment, that I'm still waiting to receive my second jug which was ordered at the end of October.  My consultant has kept me informed of progress on that though. I'm just glad that I'm not waiting on a new machine, as not having the second jug is just a minor inconvenience to me, whereas I would have been very unhappy waiting for my TMX for this long.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: gertbysea on December 07, 2011, 01:12:01 am
Here is an example of a Thermomix Distributor "going all the way" for their customers. I bet they are selling like hotcakes from their actual physical store.

http://www.superkitchenmachine.com/2011/14634/thermomix-canada-vancouver.html

Wouldn't it be great if we had such a shop in Australia. Maybe  two or three!! Even a virtual store would be an improvment where we could buy without waiting for those Western Australian people to get out of bed. LOL! ;D ;D ;D ;D

Gertbysea
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on December 07, 2011, 01:37:50 am
Wow how exciting for those in Vancouver  :o :o :o
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: gertbysea on December 07, 2011, 01:57:42 am
Wow how exciting for those in Vancouver  :o :o :o

Yes, Meagan isn't it great to be able to go to in store demos instead of having them come to you. Not everyone is comfortable having a kitchen invasion  and strangers in their house.

Seems they are very advanced and Vorwerk must be helping and encouraging them. I wonder if they will have an on line store as well. Canada is a pretty big country like ours so that would be handy for Canadians who live some distance  away.

Imagine having a store in each capital city here. Well we can dream.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: stacelee on December 07, 2011, 02:13:48 am
I've been good and finally made the phone call.....I've been proactive and actually ordered two seals and a new spatula.  My credit card is hurting :) but at least Tom will be watertight again.  I also wanted to buy a copy of the festive cookbook but apparently they sold out of them a long time ago :(

I will have to post a photo of my kitchen when I have the three machines lined up on the bench.  My son is hanging out for the new one to arrive because apparently it is smoothie weather and I always have Tom's jug dirty when he wants to use it.  I've scored the deal where the Thermochef comes with two jugs.  I haven't broken the news to the Brat yet that the machine has to come back into work after Christmas....ah well....
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on December 07, 2011, 05:05:37 am
Deeau,  I have had my Thermo Chef for 6 weeks now and have had no sign of any problems.  I use it every day and sometimes multiple times in a day.  I grind, knead chop and cook all sorts of ingredients and generally put it through it's paces.  I haven't been able to find anything at all on the net to say who make Thermo Chef.  I only know it was designed in Spain, made in China with a Japanese motor. Newwave are the importers and distributors, and are extremely good for after sales service (I chopped up my butterfly :-))).  I don't know what it's track record will be like, we'll just have to wait and see, but as I couldn't afford a Thermomix, this is a great option for me.  It looks well built and sturdy and has got me enjoying cooking again.  

I am currently putting away $10.00 a week so that in 4 years time, I will be able to afford a Thermomix, and then maybe I will gift my Thermo Chef to my DIL.  But maybe not either.  I may just keep both machines and do savories in one and sweets in the other :D.

I think that what is important is the method of cooking, and not necessarily which brand of machine you cook in.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: cookie1 on December 07, 2011, 06:16:03 am
That showroom is amazing. It would be lovely to have one in each capital city. I would have had my TMX 6 months earlier if it hadn't been for the way they are sold.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: maddy on December 07, 2011, 06:42:57 am
 I don't know what it's track record will be like, we'll just have to wait and see, but as I couldn't afford a Thermomix, this is a great option for me.  It looks well built and sturdy and has got me enjoying cooking again.  


......and that's what is really fantastic Nola....a new concept of cooking really does bring back enthusiasm....regardless of the brand.  BTW, your paintings are fabulous!......clever cookie!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on December 07, 2011, 08:08:40 am
Thank you so much for your wonderful compliment Maddy. ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: stacelee on December 16, 2011, 01:07:55 am
I now have all three units, the thermomix, thermochef and kenwood cooking chef sitting side by side on my bench.

I used the thermochef for the first time yesterday to make "dirt puddings" for my teenagers. (For those who dont know...dirt puddings are layers of chocolate custard, cream mixed with sour cream and sugar, and crushed oreos).

My initial impression of the thermochef was very positive.  As part of the recipe you have to mill sugar to icing sugar.....it did not end up quite as fine as when I did it with the thermomix....but it may have needed a little longer....but it was definately acceptable.  Cooking the chocolate custard was exactly the same as when I made it in the thermomix.  With both machines, you end up with a little cooked to the bottom of the jug.  I actually found it a little easier to clean it off than the thermomix jug.

Whipping the cream and sour cream mix was nearly a disaster, but was partially self inflicted.  The butterfly attachment is not as easy to fit as the thermomix, but if I had remembered to fit it BEFORE dumping ingredients into the jug, it might not have fallen off.  Luckily I had it running on a slow speed so it only has a couple of little chunks taken out of if.  I will check next time before using it.  It seemed to work just as well as the TM31.

I can't pass judgement on crushing the oreos because they were done in the TM31 as I forgot to do them first.  Having the two jugs for the thermochef was handy as I could make the custard and then whip the cream without having to wash and dry the jugs in between. 

Washing the jug was the same process as for the TM31....dump hot water and detergent in it, put it on high speed for 20 seconds, rinse and repeat.  The "stuck" custard came off easily with the help of a mild scouring pad....it was probably a little easier than the TM31 as the base of the jug has a slight ridge that the blade sits on which made it easier to scrub without removing the blade.  The jug itself could not go in the dishwasher, but the lid, measuring cup and blades could.

At this point it would be very hard to pick between the two "thermos".  The jug on the "chef" feels a little less robust, but I prefer the design of the jug.  I certainly didn't end up with as much "drippy" mess when I removed the lid.  The lid is harder to lock on...but when I first got the TM31 it was very stiff to, so this might be something that rectifies over time....it was easier to get on once it was damp.  Putting the blades back into the jug was a challenge for me as I have long nails, but using a spoon instead of my fingers to move the blade retainer solved that problem.

Will play with both a bit more over the weekend and see how they compare...my next task is to make bread with them.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: nola276 on December 16, 2011, 01:15:41 am
Staceelee,  You really do have to fit the butterfly while the jug is empty.  Been there done that.  You will find a difference with your bread making.  You should only knead approx 250 grms at a time with the "Chef".  Having said that, it only takes a moment longer to get a full batch of dough, so no problemo.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: fundj&e on December 16, 2011, 12:14:55 pm
i am really think about buying a TC instead  of an other tm bowl. to date i have not hade the need of an extra bowl , i know the day will come very soon  ;D
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: Meagan on December 16, 2011, 12:53:28 pm
i am really think about buying a TC instead  of an other tm bowl. to date i have not hade the need of an extra bowl , i know the day will come very soon  ;D

If you get a bowl with the next promo it would be much cheaper than a thermochef!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on December 17, 2011, 07:59:42 am
i am really think about buying a TC instead  of an other tm bowl. to date i have not hade the need of an extra bowl , i know the day will come very soon  ;D

Fundj, I didn't think I'd use my second bowl much, but I've only had it since Monday, and it is getting a regular workout! Mind you, I can see I would make use of a second machine, either TMX or TC, if I had it too.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: meganjane on December 17, 2011, 12:12:53 pm
I had the option of getting another bowl and blade set with a demo I had a while ago and decided I didn't need it. BIG mistake. It's handy when you're cooking in one bowl and need to grind or grate an ingredient. I could have definitely used it recently when I catered for our Book Club Xmas meeting.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: thermoheaven on December 17, 2011, 01:10:28 pm
MJ, that's what happened to my friend last year; this year, she bought one in april and in october and has told our consultant to let her know when the next time it's offered because she wants to get another bowl! she said she saw a chef on you tube with three bowls lined up and figured that it wasn't a bad idea. she's really keen.
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: jkmt on December 19, 2011, 09:44:56 am
Thanks for that review Stacelee. Looking forward to the next instalment!
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: gertbysea on December 19, 2011, 10:38:17 am
My DH bought me a second jug last year and even though I have not used it much I am very happy it is there when I have needed it if you get the drift.

Gretch
Title: Re: Thermochef...
Post by: achookwoman on December 19, 2011, 10:56:06 am
It has been mentioned that the TC does not knead bread as successfully as the TMX.  Many of the Bread recipes on the forum have been developed for the TMX in particular.  I under stand that the TC does not have a reverse function.  With the TMX,  part of the kneading is in reverse and this is part of the process that proves to be successful in developing the gluten.

TC owners will have to develop a technique that suits their machine.  Nola has already done this ,  but a look at Dan Lephard's method may also assist.