Forum Thermomix

Questions Doubts and Requests => Tips and Tricks => Topic started by: I Love Bimby! on August 11, 2009, 01:53:24 pm

Title: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: I Love Bimby! on August 11, 2009, 01:53:24 pm
OK - a little while ago I promised to post the list of hints and tips that was being compiled by the Vic team of consultants.  Most of it is just copied and pasted. 

Feel free to add any more suggestions  ;D

While I've titled it for New Owners - I'm sure they're be new things in there for alot of existing owners too - so here we go:


Clean Thermomix
For cleaning of Thermomix where smell present.
Ingredients   :
·   2 Teaspoons Bi Carb Soda
·   Lemon Juice (good squeeze)
·   1 Litre Water
Method
Add all ingredients to TM Bowl and cook for 10 minutes on Varoma temperature, speed 4.
Rinse with clean water.

Other Consideration
Often the smell is in the lid. Leave the lid off overnight with some water and 1 tsp of vinegar to soak. Rinse in the morning.
Also placing the lid in the freezer overnight helps dissipate smells.

SPATULA
Spatula is to be used clockwise to avoid nicks. If you are left handed, purchase an inexpensive spatula for removing food from the bottom of the Thermomix Jug.

You can use the spatula (ONLY THE TMX SPATULA!!) through the whole in the lid to move ingredients along - especially if an air bubble has formed around the blades.
When making sorbet it works well to stir anti-clockwise during the second batch of ice.

You can also remove food stuck around the shaft of the blades by running the short side of the spatula hugging the shaft once around, you can manage to remove most of the food (ie making dip).

SHARPENING BLADES
Periodically crush ice. If blades aren't grinding sugar, spices or grains as well as it usually does crush some ice.

Cleaning
·A baby’s teat brush is the best way to clean in between and under the blades when necessary.
·You can steam clean the Thermomix– 5 mins on speed 3, 90 degrees (good for custard, risotto)
·For rinsing, just cover the blades with cold water, turn it up to speed 8 for 3-4 seconds and rinse out.
·If you have any browning issues with the Thermomix or just want to give it a good clean, add 2-3 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda when you are steam cleaning. Other alternative, make a paste with bicarb and water, and rub it on with a damp cloth until clean.
- Don't forget to clean behind the TMX on a regular basis - it's amazing how quickly it can get dirtly.

Dishwasher
Although it says you can clean the Thermomix bowl in the dishwasher, our technician has advised that our dishwasher powders are move corrosive than European powders. Over time this will corrode the heat sensors at the base of the jug. All other parts are completely dishwasher safe i.e. lid, basket, spatula and Varoma

Removing stuck food
Clean with a soft scourer only; all metal utensils are not suitable, only use utensils suitable for non stick surfaces. Keeping your bowl scratch free prevents any transferal of flavours.

Rinsing
After washing, best to always final rinse with cold water as a hot bowl can be problematic for some food preparations.

Drying Itself - great for showing off in front of friends!!  ;)
You can use a tea towel and the reverse mode to automatically dry your Thermomix bowl. Loosely place tea towel into the bottom of Thermomix bowl, secure lid, activate reverse mode, speed 2 for 10 to 15 seconds.

The turbo button can also be used a few times before putting the tea towel in to remove excess water from blades.  You can also put the temp on 80c or 90c too to help dry the base (just remember to cool it before you use it for something that should have a cool blade & bowl  ;) )

Milling/Grinding
For milling and grinding, extra drying of Thermomix Bowl is necessary for best results if you have just washed and dried bowl. Secure lid, activate lid locked position on speed dial and activate the Turbo button once. Water underneath the blades will flick onto the sides of the bowl and can be dried with towel. You are now ready for milling.

When milling or grinding you can place a piece of paper towel between the MC and the lid so that little pieces don't fly out.

If milling spices, you can also place a whole sheet of paper towel under the lid to avoid the ground spices being caught at the top of the lid.

Removing Bread Dough
For removal of bread dough, tip Thermomix Bowl upside down and the dough will drop out. If dough is too wet it will be stuck inside the bowl. The touch test is best carried out 10 seconds into the kneading. On the rest interval, through hole in the lid, touch the dough with two fingers, if fingers are clean dough will be easier to handle, if dough is sticky and sticks to fingers, add 1 heaped dessertspoon of bread flour through top of lid. This will facilitate easier removal from the Thermomix bowl and will be clean and easy to work with (you won’t need to add flour to dough when shaping).  It's also worth checking again after about 1 min 30 sec after the bread starts to relax. It doesn't have to be an exact science  ;) ;D
You can also spin the blade attachment on the bottom side of the bowl ( the black bit) to help move the dough out.

KNEADING
Whist kneading it is important not to walk away from your TMX  as the dough can gather on one side and cause the TMX to unbalance creating a "walk" or a "dance" - so it's important to make sure it doesn't groove off the edge of the bench.

Chopping Herbs
When chopping herbs and vegetables, at the same time for a salad or stock concentrate, add herbs first, stems and all and then the vegetables, you will achieve an even result with all herbs and stems cut evenly.

Scale Care
Thermomix must be on a flat surface and the little feet clean, for the scales to work effectively. The scales are very sensitive. You may find it better to have the cord fully out when using the scales.
Don't drag your TMX over the bench as the 3 feet are attached to the scales and can eventually upset scales.
When scraping, stirring etc, avoid the urge to tap the spoon/spatula on the bowl to remove excess food - this upsets the scales and may eventually mean that the scales will need to be re-calibrated.

Stirring slowly
Soft Speed is represented by the spoon symbol on the speed dial, turning the blades at 40rpm.

Timer
( - ) = 1 minute, then (+) increases time in 30 second increments until 10 minutes, then goes by 1 minute incriments
(+) = 1 second at time up to 1 minute then 30second increments until 10 minutes, then goes by 1 minute incriments
To clear the timer press the (-) and the (+) buttons at the same time

Cooking Safety feature - TTS (time temperature speed)
Set timer, temperature, speed. Never burn food again!

Measuring while cooking
If you need to measure in more ingredients while cooking, turn the dial to the closed lid or open lid position (which ever is required), set your scales, weigh in ingredients. To resume turn dial back to the speed you were using and the Thermomix remembers the temp and the remaining time.

Stopping Heat
Should you wish to stop the bowl cooking but continue stirring, simply press the power button next to the 37C button and the heat will cut out

Clearing remaining time
Press both the (+) and the (-) buttons together to re-set/clear the timer

Lid
To keep your bench clean while cooking, when taking your lid off rest it up-side-down on the bench so that it doesn't drip and place the MC in the hole of the lid or on the inside of the upturned lid (not in the hole) to avoid any drips going onto the bench.

Double Lock Safety Feature
The lid is designed to lock into position and the dial must also lock in the lid. This happens automatically when using the dial to stir, cut or mill. To use the Turbo or Kneading (Interval) functions you will need to turn the dial to the little lock lid position  *:

Butterfly
Once the butterfly is inserted you MUST NOT go over speed 4 - otherwise the butterfly may come off and get damaged in the bowl. When using the butterfly the MC may also be placed in upside down if required. When placing the butterfly into the bowl it goes in the smaller space between the blades.

Automatic Powersave
After 15 minutes of no activity the Thermomix will switch itself off.

Cooking with the Varoma

When steaming in the Thermomix Varoma, time is relative to convention rules of cooking. A thicker fillet of fish will take longer to cook than a thinner fillet. Harder vegetables (potatoes, carrot etc) take longer than green vegetables and leafy green take less time again. If you like your vegetables crunchy then less time again than if you like your greens soft.

When you add the minimum water - 500mls, it takes 7 minutes to reach Varoma.
When you add 900mls of water to the Thermomix for steaming, you will notice that 10 minutes of that time is in the heating of the water to Varoma temperature when the steaming/cooking process begins.
It takes 7 minutes at speed 1 for 1 litre of water to get to 100c.

Rule of thumb, greens take 1 to 5 minutes depending on the size that they are cut (again usual rules of cooking) large pieces if broccoli will take 5 minutes and smaller pieces take 3 minutes. Spinach leaves take 1 minute. Add this time to the heating of the water and you have a total time to set the cooking time from 11 minutes to 16 minutes. If you add the minimum of water - 500mls, it takes 7 minutes to reach Varoma, so calculations will start with 7 minutes.

A thick fillet of fish (typically Atlantic salmon) will take around 20 minutes with 900mls of water and a basket of rice cooking at the same time ( Remove the rice after 14 minutes).If you are steaming the fish without the rice it will cook quicker (around 16 minutes cooking time)

In the beginning take a guess based on these times, check the food for the degree of cooking required at the end of cooking time and add more time if needed, remembering that you would be adding extra time in increments of 1 to 4 minutes because the water is at Varoma temperature so every minute is a lot of cooking time.

REMOVING VAROMA LID
To remove the varoma lid - lift it up on the side so it opens away from you - avoiding any steam burns.
You can also place the varoma lid upside down on the bench to serve as a tray to place the base on to catch the drips from the Varoma dish.

STORAGE
When storing a bowl or while it is not in use, leave the MC off to allow the bowl to dry completely and air - you can leave it sitting on top of the lid to avoid losing it or accidentally forgetting it's in the bowl.

CRACKING EGGS
Don't crack your eggs on the side of the TM bowl as spills onto the TM bowl can cook onto the bowl.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: I Love Bimby! on December 10, 2009, 11:42:42 am
bumping
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on December 13, 2009, 07:05:34 am
Thanks again ILB. It doesn't hurt to re read these every now and again to refresh our memory.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: achookwoman on December 13, 2009, 12:51:57 pm
Thanks again ILB. It doesn't hurt to re read these every now and again to refresh our memory.

Thanks for the list.   I now realize why I can't use the spatula effectively,  I'm left handed.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Thermomixer on December 13, 2009, 01:12:22 pm
I'm right handed and still prefer the Tupperware soft spatula to get out the last dregs.   Sorry ILB - not helping with sales of new spatulas
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: I Love Bimby! on December 13, 2009, 01:16:51 pm
LOL - thats fine Thermomixer. I completely understand everyones frustrations with the spatula.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on December 14, 2009, 02:24:40 am
I'm left handed too Chookie. Will make no further comment on how wonderful we are etc...........

On year at school on Left Handers Day I made a special certificate for all the lefties in my class. I had so many complaints from the parents that I had to declare the next day right handers day and do the same for them.

Don't you just hate it when you have to write right up against the edge of a book stapled on the left? That is my lifes big bugbear.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Carrie on December 14, 2009, 04:26:27 am
Great thread! Thank you for putting it together.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Depome on December 14, 2009, 07:04:39 am
Great list  ;D

I hate the spatula too. Infact, I think all rigid spatulas are useless. I love my Tupperware spatula, and a slimmer, flexible one that I have (unknown brand).
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Ceejay on December 15, 2009, 05:22:38 am
Glad I'm not the only one who avoids my TMX spatula.... it only gets used for the sorbet.  :P
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Thermomixer on December 23, 2009, 03:47:04 am
Just thought this should be here as well for newbies (and me  ;) ;) )

Oh - And its 34 points. :D
Introduction to your Thermomix:
Consultants Name: Date:
Phone Numbers:
1.    un-pack Unpack Thermomix box, including Varoma.
2.    set-up Set-up Thermomix, leaving strainer basket in jug.
3.    cord Pull out cord fully.
4.    scales Instruct customer on protocols for scale function (ie cord to be clear of Thermomix jug and fully extended, the three suction feet to be evenly and firmly on bench surface).
Clean feet on a regular basis. Tip Thermomix to show suction cups for cleaning.
5.    removing lid Guide taking lid off + MC (measuring cup) and have customer repeat.
6.    jug to base Remove Thermomix jug from base, re-insert and have customer repeat.
7.    cleaning (1st time) Have customer activate scales, add 500ml of water to Thermomix jug and add 200ms of vinegar.
8.    closing lid Instruct customer in how to close Thermomix lid and have customer repeat.
9.    timer training Instruct ( + ) = 1 second at a time up to 1 minute then 30 second increments; pressing ( + ) and ( - ) at the same time clears the time; ( - ) = 1 minute.
10.    set timer Have customer set timer for 5 minutes.
11.    heating / cooking Safety feature: set timer, temperature and speed. Never burn food again. Clean for 5 minutes at 80 degrees, speed 1.
12.    cook book / manual Remove protective cover from cook book and apply sticker with your contact details.
13.    table of functions Explanation and location in cook book.
14.    reverse button Demonstrate the reverse button which uses the non-sharp edge of the blade for stirring.
15.    using scales Demonstrate pausing the cooking, activate the scales and fill the MC up with water while in lid – 1st specific check of scales: 100g. Demonstrate how you return to cooking.
16.   o MC MC = measuring cup. When a recipe calls for 1MC of milk, use the MC to measure the quantity (ie 100ml).
17.   o Varoma Check Varoma. Remove all parts from wrapping and check. Activate Varoma temperature, explain, reset to 80 degrees.
18.   o removing basket Heating complete, bell ringing, stop, have customer remove lid and MC and demonstrate removing the basket with the spatula.
19.   o remove spatula Demonstrate removing the spatula from the basket.
20.   o cold water rinse Rinse the Thermomix bowl with cold water, instruct why cold water (ie a hot bowl may be problematic for some dishes)
21.   o drying with tea-towel Instruct customer how to dry with a tea-towel using reverse, speed 2 for 10 seconds.
22.   o double locking Demonstrate double locking mechanism: lid to be in correct place before you can activate the lid lock position and continue with blade function. Have customer activate turbo and interval speeds – lock the lid and activate the turbo button. This is useful for extra drying when milling or grating, etc. Repeat with interval speed. Refer to recipe with symbol on page 121.
23.   o symbols – cook book Introduce the guide to symbols in the Everyday Cook Book on page 4. The first three symbols are Interval, Reverse and Soft Speed. Turn to page 80 and demonstrate how a recipe uses these symbols and the corresponding method reference.
24.   o stay with Thermomix Instruct on the food preparations that require you to stay with the Thermomix: salads, whipping cream and kneading.
25.   o b’fly: max speed 4 Have customer insert the butterfly and instruct on the speed (ie maximum speed is 4). Customer to apply lid, MC upside down and activate.
26.   o cooking experience Custard: Use scales, timer and cooking functions. Scales weigh in 5g increments. Demonstrate using container on top for weighing light ingredients (ie corn flour). Use time for all preparations when more than 1 minute is required.
27.   o stock concentrate While custard is cooking, refer to page 17 for stock concentrate.
28.   o spatula use Remove custard from bowl, demonstrating tapping the spatula inside the bowl for release of excess food. Never tap on the top, keeping the top edge of the jug in excellent condition.
29.   o cleaning the jug Where there is residual food on the sides or the bottom of the jug after removal of the contents, add 500ml of water, set timer to 4 minutes, 80 degrees, speed 2. When completed, activate blades, speed 7 for 10-15 seconds. Bowl ready for a quick rinse, using a dish cleaning brush to assist with final cleaning. Never use anything abrasive on the Thermomix for cleaning. A good choice is Scotch Brite – Never Scratch and the Thermomix Cleaning Brush. If in their home, check their cupboard for scourers and give feedback on their suitability.
30.   o error codes Page 40 of the Instruction Manual: error 70 and 73 require a technician; all other codes can be rectified following the instructions in the manual.
31.   o removal of blades Demonstrate the correct removal of the blades. Have customer repeat. Instruct in cleaning of the blades and that you can immerse them completely in water.
32.   o storage of jug Only jug with blades fitted correctly and secured in place are to be placed in the Thermomix base for use and storage.
33.   o sign invoice Have the customer sign the invoice, leaving the original copy with them for their records.
34.   o on / off switch Instruct on the use of the on / off switch and explain that the Thermomix switches off after 15 minutes of not being used.

Date: ________________________________________________________
Name of Consultant: ______________________________________________
Name of Customer: ___________________________________________________
Completed 34 step Briefing: (insert yes or no) ____________________
Customer’s Signature: ______________________________________________



Here is the list in Word format for those who want to print out a copy.  ;)

Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: natslim on February 04, 2010, 05:53:56 pm
How much water should you add to the bowl when you steam clean it?

Thanks!
Tanya
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Depome on February 04, 2010, 09:49:30 pm
I don't think they really mean "steam" cleaning. I add hot water (from the tap), enough to cover the blades, and a little dishwashing detergent. Leave it on and cooking for a few mins ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Kali Ma on February 05, 2010, 12:36:02 am
How frustrating to be told to use in dishwasher only to now read this thread..  >:(
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Thermomixer on February 05, 2010, 01:29:44 am
Yeah - I have never put mine in the dishwasher as I just don't trust dishwashers with anything expensive.  But it still says in the manual that it is all dishwasher safe  >:(  :o :o
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on February 05, 2010, 01:45:20 am
OMG!! I always put mine in dishwasher!! And it is even in our notes to say at demo - it is one of the best selling points! I say TMX can replace if it does corrode as they promote doing it!  :o 
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: bron_fin on February 05, 2010, 05:14:45 am
Can anyone explain point 28 on the delivery list to me  ??? ???
Thanks
Bron
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cathy79 on February 05, 2010, 05:25:52 am
Can anyone explain point 28 on the delivery list to me  ??? ???
Thanks
Bron
Do you mean tapping spatula inside the bowl instead of on top?  If you tap your spatula on the side of the bowl to get food off the spatula and back in the bowl, you'll always tap exactly the same spot on the rim of the bowl.  Eventually, you could end up with a dent in that spot - not good for the seal etc.  So they recommend tapping the inside of the bowl gently instead.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Meagan on February 05, 2010, 05:26:14 am
28.   o spatula use Remove custard from bowl, demonstrating tapping the spatula inside the bowl for release of excess food. Never tap on the top, keeping the top edge of the jug in excellent condition.


This basically means if you are wanting to tap the spatula to get ingredients off it into the bowl don't bang it on the top edge of the bowl instead bang it against the inside of the bowl. To protect the metal of the rim from fracturing ( getting small cracks in it) and to not cause problems for the scales which are in the feet of the machine. Does that make sense?
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: bron_fin on February 05, 2010, 05:30:08 am
I have tried tapping on the inside of the bowl but didn't see any custard come off the side. 
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Meagan on February 05, 2010, 05:33:44 am
The instructions are for consultants who would be more than likely making a custard when delivering the machine. I never do it with custard as it is too sticky lol. I usually scrape the excess off on the side of the rim then use the spatual to transfer to the bowl I am putting it in or just lick it off the spatula  :P (obviously when I am at home lol not delivering to a customer ;D)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: bron_fin on February 05, 2010, 05:36:22 am
Oh now I feel stupid or really confused.  Am I tapping to release food from the bowl or the spatula????
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: bron_fin on February 05, 2010, 05:47:36 am
Ok so have just re-read it very carefully.  Weird how you interpret things (or maybe it's just me!!).  Realise we are getting food off the spatula and it doesn't have some other magic power to make the bowl become non-stick or something.  You know like clicking your heels together (Wizard of OZ).  Anyway thanks for clarification! :-[ :-))
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Meagan on February 05, 2010, 06:11:44 am
Yep we are talking off the spatula  ;) wouldn't it be great if we could tap out spatula to make that happen - try wizzing on speed 8 with some water above the blades for 10-20 seconds that is pretty close to a magic wand  ;D
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Thermomixer on February 05, 2010, 07:03:57 am
LOL - lucky we're not trying to explain to Isi  ;D ;D ;D   Yeah, I was confused when I first saw them doing it at a B2B class - couldn't understand the big deal at first.  But then after 2 or three times the penny dropped (or somebody actually explained it fully)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Vonnie on November 26, 2010, 11:18:19 am
You could use envirocare dishwashing powder non caustic at all.  Find it in your local Health store
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Kym on November 26, 2010, 11:49:54 am
Bugger - just read the dishwashing comment :(
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on November 27, 2010, 06:20:14 am
Kym - I have been putting mine in the Dishwasher for 18mths with no ill-effects. It is actually part of the Thermomix demo in endorsing it is dishwasher safe so it is really up to you. Your warranty could not possibly be voided by doing it.  ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Chelsea (Thermie Groupie) on November 27, 2010, 09:22:51 am
The only thing I don't put in the dishwasher is the lid seal.  I go through too many of them as it is and our Tassie GL advised me not to put that in.  I don't think it is designed for the dishwasher.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on November 27, 2010, 10:49:42 am
The new seals are much better. Have you noticed they are silicon edges??  ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Kym on November 27, 2010, 11:13:34 pm
Thanks Nay-nay
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: sue_h on December 26, 2010, 05:59:59 am
With regards to sharpening the blades by crushing ice. Do you need to have just ice or would having fruit smoothies with lots of ice in them each day do the same thing?
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on December 28, 2010, 07:43:52 am
Yep - I have always thought so anyway.  ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Sophia on February 02, 2011, 04:17:55 am
Also the  BASKET  is used as a strainor and the spatular clips in to the side of the baskets making the handle of the strainor, very easy when draining/straining- juices/pasta/ect....
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: timfulford on February 08, 2011, 05:13:20 pm
why is the plastic used for the TM such a visually unappealing colour?  Its horrid :'(
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on February 08, 2011, 11:43:27 pm
What colour would you like to see mindmapper1??
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: judydawn on February 09, 2011, 01:54:54 am
I like it, it goes with my kitchen decor perfectly  ;D ;D 
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on February 09, 2011, 04:26:26 am
I'd like one for each day to suit my mood. Red springs to mind. Actually I like black, it suits everything and is smart. BUt I'd still like a red one!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: timfulford on February 10, 2011, 12:12:45 pm
What colour would you like to see mindmapper1??
Any pastel colour but not military yuk grey/brown. It just does not go with 'food' products, looking in the high street you don't see any other food equipment in this colour.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: faffa_70 on February 11, 2011, 02:58:29 pm
It's to do with the safety of it when heated I do believe. I will have to go back and do some research through my notes, but something to do with BPA's, heat and the strength of the plastic  ??? As I said I need to go and find the info to be sure I am on the right track ...
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: CreamPuff63 on February 11, 2011, 03:29:07 pm
I love my TM and really don't give too much about the colour as it is. If I had a second preference though, for neutrality I would go for charcoal, then a cherry red (ha ha is that neutral????)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Frozzie on February 12, 2011, 01:53:50 pm
It's to do with the safety of it when heated I do believe. I will have to go back and do some research through my notes, but something to do with BPA's, heat and the strength of the plastic  ??? As I said I need to go and find the info to be sure I am on the right track ...

think this must be true as my hubby works for a famous plastics company and all of their cooking matyerial for the oven is the same colour..i dont get greenish brown but a dark grey, charcoal colour..apparently its the material used that makes it that colour (asked hubby) but new colours are coming apparently for the material not Thermomix lol

also i put mine in the dishwasher and its fine..only thing i have noticed is the lid tends to dry out ie the colour seems to fade a bit but i just rub a bit of oil over it like you do with certain pans and cookware and its fine...and any case like nay nay mentioned they cant void the warranty as its mentioned its dishwasher safe..have to note though that only the newer versions I know that older TM31's are not dishwasher safe..you can tell by the blade apparently..its slightly different to the new one??

 :)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: KarenT on March 19, 2011, 12:41:35 pm
What an interesting thread - wish I'd read it earlier!
I've copied and printed the first list to give to customers - thank you!

K xx
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: timfulford on March 21, 2011, 06:19:02 pm
It's to do with the safety of it when heated I do believe. I will have to go back and do some research through my notes, but something to do with BPA's, heat and the strength of the plastic  ??? As I said I need to go and find the info to be sure I am on the right track ...
mmmmm sorry as a technologist with lots of experience of materials I cannot believe the co our is related to strength and temperature otherwise there would be a lot more nasty colored kitchen items!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Kate84 on June 09, 2011, 02:58:39 am
I noticed that in the start of this thread is mentions drying with a tea towel in the bowl on reverse speed. Has any one heard that the powers that be are no longer recommending this, that some thread of towel are getting where they shouldn't??
My consultant mentioned this last week and I thought it was interesting. How many people have shredded a towel??? Forgot to put it in reverse LOL!!!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Cuilidh on June 09, 2011, 09:37:22 am
Yes, I forgot to put mine in reverse once as well - I haven't forgotten since though!!!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on June 10, 2011, 06:35:47 am
I think the 'threads' that are getting caught are from tea towels that have a frayed fringe. But I love doing it to get the bowl ultra dry when I've washed it and need to mill something next. I also turbo it first to spin the water out of the blades.  ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Meagan on June 10, 2011, 04:39:09 pm
Yes you are not supposed to do it and it can void your warranty!!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Kate84 on June 10, 2011, 11:23:03 pm
Yes thanks Meagan that is exactly what i was wondering! I have never put a tea towel in to dry mine but i have seen it done and thought "wow" but then when i heard that it is not a good idea i wondered if it voided the warranty. I guess TMX should let those know that were told it was ok?  I saw a warning on another thread, something about washing degergent, they are not replacing bowls if you do that in them.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on June 11, 2011, 12:46:43 am
Whoops - i just re-read my post - I don't turbo with teatowel inside just with nothing in it.  :-[
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Meagan on June 11, 2011, 05:43:37 am
I knew exactly what you meant Nay but re-reading it other may not  ;)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Vivaroo on August 01, 2011, 12:02:12 pm
Such a good list of tips - I was having starting to have buyers remorse on the first day or so because I couldn't get anything out of the jug - yep spatula left-handed problems - read these tips & bought a soft one from Woolies and life's a whole lot better.  For $2k it should almost come with a $4 soft spatula don't you think?  
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: faffa_70 on August 01, 2011, 12:37:44 pm
Such a good list of tips - I was having starting to have buyers remorse on the first day or so because I couldn't get anything out of the jug - yep spatula left-handed problems - read these tips & bought a soft one from Woolies and life's a whole lot better.  For $2k it should almost come with a $4 soft spatula don't you think? 

You would ... but unfortunately there are people out there that would try and use it while the machine was going (believe me!!) There are reports that a customer in another country actually put the electrical part in the dishwasher as they were told it was ALL dishwasher safe  :-)) :-)) I make sure I clarify that when I deliver now - not that I think any of my customers would do that - I want to ENSURE they don't!!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: CreamPuff63 on August 01, 2011, 02:40:51 pm
There are reports that a customer in another country actually put the electrical part in the dishwasher as they were told it was ALL dishwasher safe  :-)) :-))

I have a frypan (I think???)  :-))) and you can immerse the whole lot in water, but you don't put the electrical cord in. I woudln't immerse the whole thinkg in the sink for ages so this person is a real idiot - but that is the general public and you can never presume to be a step ahead of what they think
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Nay-nay on August 03, 2011, 12:16:39 am
Reminds me of the story of the lady that bought a  winnebago with cruise control so she didn't have to drive the whole trip. She put it on leaving the drivers seat to make a cuppa and it crashed of course - but she had to sue cause no one explained she couldn't do that!!  :-))
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Very Happy Jan on August 03, 2011, 02:29:43 am
 :D :D :D I remember that email going around Nay Nay. I laughed but had to concede that there would be someone  out in the big wide world that would silly enough to do that.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Curly Club on October 15, 2011, 04:23:17 am
Hi, I am new so apologies if this tip has already been posted elsewhere. I read the tip "When milling or grinding you can place a piece of paper towel between the MC and the lid so that little pieces don't fly out." I found this tip very helpful but eventually found placing an unopened freezer bag between the jug & the lid even more effective. There is enough give so it twists with the lid.Leave the measuring cup off. I use a dry pastry brush to brush the milled spices down from the sides of the jug.
It's probably not great for the environment but to be honest I also use the freezer bag trick heaps if I'm making messy dips, cake batter etc it saves so much washing up. I'm trying to come up with a simple way to cut the freezer bags into single sheets.( A guillotine might work) . I learnt the hard way that this tip can not be used with hot recipes  :-[
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: judydawn on October 15, 2011, 05:14:53 am
That's a good tip Curly Club.  Hi and welcome to the forum.  Why not pop over here (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?board=21.0) and introduce yourself formally so that we can all say hi.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on October 15, 2011, 05:29:41 am
Thanks Curly Club. Perhaps Glads Press and Seal may be good too.
Welcome.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Very Happy Jan on October 15, 2011, 06:37:45 am
Thanks Curly Club. Perhaps Glads Press and Seal may be good too.
Welcome.
Have you been able to buy that recently Cookie?
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on October 15, 2011, 06:47:41 am
I haven't checked recently. I have some in the pantry. I used to use it to put between the home made bread slices. Don't do it anymore.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Very Happy Jan on October 15, 2011, 06:49:18 am
I loved it to put over salads when transporting as it stuck to everything and created a great seal. My local Cole hasn't had it for a long time.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Frozzie on October 15, 2011, 08:28:29 am
over here we just use a small bit of basic plastic wrap, glad wrap whatever you want to call it...great also for milling sugar etc etc..it all stays in the bowl :)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: jkelmum on November 17, 2011, 05:13:52 pm
Great tips for a newbie like me thanks  ;D
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: timfulford on December 27, 2011, 04:11:11 am
I suggest to my guests at demos that a jam funnel is a useful addition as is the use of cling wrap over the bowl when milling sugar, spices and other dry goods that tend to 'escape'.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: judydawn on December 18, 2012, 09:43:48 am
Bumping this for newbies.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cecilia on May 02, 2013, 03:28:50 pm
Bumping again and thank you to all contributors of this thread.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Chad on October 25, 2013, 09:30:34 am
Thank you for this thread. Great info' as I eagerly await delivery of my machine.  :)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: LauraTO on February 09, 2014, 12:43:25 am
Thank you for all these great tips, from a newbie!

Is there any quick wisdom for when to put the MC on facing up, down, or off altogether?  Lots of recipes don't seem to specify.  If the recipe doesn't state it, what is the default?

Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: judydawn on February 09, 2014, 12:48:28 am
I recently attending a cooking class of a well know Australian Italian chef Laura and he said he always leaves the MC off - of course he uses the steaming basket over the hole when cooking a bowlful of tomato pasta sauce as it will splatter.  I have taken to doing the same as I figure a high profile cook like Nico knows what he's talking about.

The MC goes in with the open side facing upwards generally but I don't think it really matters.  In recipes it generally says when to leave the MC off so you can presume it's on if nothing is said.
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Cuilidh on February 09, 2014, 03:48:29 am
The only times I worry about the correct way up (or down) of the MC is if I have the butterfly in and when I am making mayonnaise - in both of these instances, the open mouth is facing down, into the jug.
Title: Re: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: Jamberie on February 09, 2014, 04:22:24 am
I almost always have the MC off, but when i do use it, I have it like a "U" as it is slightly easier to clean :) like Judy I use the basket to stop splattering :)
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: LauraTO on February 09, 2014, 12:26:02 pm
Thanks for the replies everyone. That makes good sense! I love having the MC off because I like to look at the magic that is going on inside!!
Title: Re: List of Hints and Tips for New Owners
Post by: cookie1 on February 10, 2014, 05:07:43 am
Ive had my machine for 6 years and I still love watching in the top. I think it gives you a good idea for times too Laura.