User Manual for Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor

Quick Guide from the Manual

The Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor is designed for efficient food preparation. Before using, ensure the work bowl is securely locked onto the base and the blade or disc is firmly seated on the motor shaft. Always use the pusher to feed food into the tube; never use your fingers or utensils. If the motor stops during operation, it may be due to an unlocked pusher assembly or motor overheating; allow the unit to cool for 5-10 minutes if necessary.

Features and Benefits

• Housing Base: Features a vertically projecting shaft and two large control levers.
• 14-Cup Work Bowl: Large capacity for various food processing tasks.
• Pusher Assembly: Includes a small, removable clear pusher for narrow foods (like carrots) and liquid, and a large pusher for bulk items.
• Metal Chopping/Mixing/Dough Blade: Used for chopping, puréeing, and mixing dough.
• Slicing and Shredding Discs: Used for slicing fruits/vegetables and shredding cheese or vegetables.
• Detachable Stem: Fits both discs for easy storage.

Unpacking and Assembly

When unpacking, handle the cutting tools with great care as they are extremely sharp. The machine base, work bowl, and metal blade are located at the bottom of the box. Always ensure the work bowl is locked in place before attaching the cover and pusher assembly. Never store the blade or discs on the motor shaft when the processor is not in use.

Processing Techniques

Chopping and Puréeing

For raw fruits and vegetables, cut into 1-inch pieces. Use the pulse technique (1 second on, 1 second off) to achieve the desired texture without overprocessing. For purées, process continuously until smooth.

Kneading Yeast Dough

The processor can mix and knead dough efficiently. Do not attempt to knead dough that is too stiff to knead by hand. After ingredients are incorporated, process for 60 seconds to knead. Typical bread dough should be soft, pliable, and slightly sticky.

Slicing and Shredding

Always use the pusher to guide food. Use light pressure for soft foods (bananas, mushrooms, cheese) and firm pressure for hard vegetables (carrots, yams). Pack the feed tube snugly for consistent results.

Cleaning and Maintenance

All parts except the motor base are dishwasher safe; place the work bowl upside down. Rinse parts immediately after use to prevent food from drying. To clean the metal blade, fill the work bowl with soapy water and move the blade rapidly up and down on the center shaft. Never immerse the motor base in water.

Troubleshooting

If the blade does not incorporate ingredients, always start the processor before adding liquids. If the blade rises in the work bowl, ensure it is pushed down as far as it will go. If the motor stops, check the pusher assembly lock or allow the motor to cool if it has overheated.