MONOPRICE Strata Home Pro Blender P/N 27843 User's Manual
CONTENTS SAFETY WARNINGS AND GUIDELINES... 4 CUSTOMER SERVICE... 5 PACKAGE CONTENTS... 5 PRODUCT OVERVIEW... 6 Blender... 6 Control Panel... 6 BEFORE FIRST USE... 7 OPERATION... 7 PULSE MODE... 8 SPECIFICATIONS... 8 TECHNICAL SUPPORT... 8 SAMPLE RECIPES... 9 DIPS... 9 Hummus... 9 Avocado Dip... 10 Beetroot Dip... 10 Spinach Dip... 11 Smoked Trout Dip... 11 White Bean and Chive Dip... 12 SOUPS... 13 Pumpkin Soup... 13 Broccoli Soup... 14 Potato and Leek Soup... 15 Sweet Potato, Ginger, and Mirrin Soup... 15 Tomato, Zucchini, and Basil Soup... 16 SAUCES...17 2
Basil and Pine Nut Pesto...17 Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto... 18 Romesco Sauce... 18 Napolitana Sauce... 19 Bolognaise Sauce... 20 DESSERTS... 22 Banana and Honey Ice Cream... 22 Apple and Cinnamon Ice Cream... 23 Mango Sorbet... 23 Strawberry and Chocolate Dessert Sauce... 24 Whipped Chantilly Cream... 24 Chocolate and Mint Mousse... 25 SMOOTHIES AND JUICES... 26 Healthy Green Smoothie... 26 Berry and Banana Smoothie... 27 Peach and Honey Smoothie... 27 Almond and Cinnamon Milkshake... 27 Apple and Watermelon Juice... 28 NUT MILKS AND BUTTERS... 29 Almond Milk... 29 Cashew Nut Milk... 30 Peanut Butter... 30 Hazelnut and Brazil Nut Butter... 31 Cashew and Chocolate Spread... 31 Almond and Honey Spread... 32 3
SAFETY WARNINGS AND GUIDELINES Please read this entire manual before using this device, paying extra attention to these safety warnings and guidelines. Please keep this manual in a safe place for future reference. This device is intended for indoor use only. Do not immerse the base in water. If it does fall into water, immediately unplug it and allow it to dry completely before attempting to use it again. If the base needs cleaning, wipe the outside with a cloth dampened in warm water. Do not touch the device, the power cord, or any other connected cables with wet hands. Wash the blending jug, lid, and blades with soap and warm water after each use. Allow the parts to fully dry before storing them. Prior to operation, check the unit and power cord for physical damage. Do not use if physical damage has occurred. Before plugging the unit into a power outlet, ensure that the outlet provides the same type and level of power required by the device. This device uses a grounded power cord and requires a ground connection for safe operation. Ensure that the power source has a proper ground connection. Do not modify the plug or use a "cheater" plug to bypass the ground connection. Unplug the blender when not actively blending food or beverages. Unplug the blender prior to cleaning it. Take care to prevent damage to the power cord. Do not allow it to become crimped, pinched, walked on, or become tangled with other cords. Ensure that the power cord does not present a tripping hazard. Never unplug the unit by pulling on the power cord. Always grasp the connector head or adapter body. This device has no user serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open, service, or modify this device. Do not leave the blender unattended while it is in use. 4
This device is intended for use by adults and mature children with adult supervision only. Warning! The blades are very sharp. Do not reach into the blender when it is on its base. Do not operate if the blades are broken or loose. Do not overload the blender. Do not add food or liquid above the maximum level line on the blending jug. Do not operate the blender continuously for more than 10 minutes. CUSTOMER SERVICE The Monoprice Customer Service department is dedicated to ensuring that your ordering, purchasing, and delivery experience is second to none. If you have any problem with your order, please give us an opportunity to make it right. You can contact a Monoprice Customer Service representative through the Live Chat link on our website www.monoprice.com during normal business hours (Mon-Fri: 5am-7pm PT, Sat-Sun: 9am- 6pm PT) or via email at support@monoprice.com PACKAGE CONTENTS Please take an inventory of the package contents to ensure you have all the items listed below. If anything is missing or damaged, please contact Monoprice Customer Service for a replacement. 1x Blender base 1x Blending jug 1x Blending blades 1x Lid 1x User's Manual 5
PRODUCT OVERVIEW Blender Control Panel 6
BEFORE FIRST USE Perform the following steps prior to using the blender for the first time. 1. Thoroughly wash the blending jug, lid, and blades with warm, soapy water. 2. Place the blender base on a flat, stable surface within reach of a grounded AC power outlet. 3. Ensure that the lid is properly and firmly seated on the blending jug before attempting to blend food or beverages. 4. Ensure that the blending jug is firmly seated on the base before attempting to blend food or beverages. OPERATION Perform the following steps to blend food or beverages. 1. Place the blender base on a flat, stable surface within reach of a grounded AC power outlet. 2. Place the proper food or beverage items inside the blending jug. 3. If necessary, add water or other liquid to a point midway between the minimum and maximum liquid level lines on the blending jug. 4. Ensure that the lid is properly and firmly seated on the blending jug. 5. Ensure that the blending jug is firmly seated on the base. 6. Set the speed dial to the minimum position. 7. Plug the blender's power cord into the nearby AC power outlet. 8. With one hand, hold the lid to ensure it does not come off while blending. 9. Press the ON/OFF switch to the ON position, then slowly increase the speed dial to the appropriate speed. 10. When blending is complete, put the ON/OFF switch to the OFF position. 11. Unplug the blender from the AC power outlet. 7
12. Remove the blending jug from the base, then remove the lid from the blending jug. 13. Pour the blended food or beverage into an appropriate container. 14. Thoroughly wash the blending jug, lid, and blades with warm, soapy water, then rinse the parts and allow them to fully dry before storing the blender. PULSE MODE Instead of using the main ON/OFF switch, you can use the blender in pulse mode by momentarily pressing down on the Pulse switch. The blender will operate as long as the Pulse switch is held down in the ON position. SPECIFICATIONS Voltage Frequency Power Capacity Max. Speed 120 VAC 60 Hz 1450 watts 2 liters 32000 rpm TECHNICAL SUPPORT Monoprice is pleased to provide free, live, online technical support to assist you with any questions you may have about installation, setup, troubleshooting, or product recommendations. If you ever need assistance with your new product, please come online to talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable Tech Support Associates. Technical support is available through the online chat button on our website www.monoprice.com during regular business hours, 7 days a week. You can also get assistance through email by sending a message to tech@monoprice.com 8
SAMPLE RECIPES DIPS Perfect for easy entertaining, these simple dip recipes are healthy and delicious. Each of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time to take the stress out of preparing your event. Alternatively, store them in the fridge for a quick snack that should last for 2-3 days. Serve with biscuits, bread, corn chips, or vegetable sticks. Hummus 14 oz. (400g) can chickpeas, drained and washed 2 garlic cloves 2.5 fl. oz. (75ml) extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil 1.5 tbsp tahini paste 2 tsp cumin, ground 1 lemon, small, juiced Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 9
2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to medium. 3. Once blended to a paste, remove and serve. Avocado Dip 2 avocados, peeled and de-seeded 1/2 cup sour cream 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce 1 lemon, juiced Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to medium. 3. Once blended to a paste, remove and serve. Beetroot Dip 16 oz. (450g) can beetroot, drained 9 oz. (250g) cream cheese, softened 1 garlic clove 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the beetroot, garlic clove, and olive oil into the blender. 2. Blend on medium speed for 5-10 seconds. 3. Add the cream cheese, breaking it up into small pieces. 4. Blend on low speed until all ingredients are combined. 10
5. Season to taste and serve. Spinach Dip 1 cup mayonnaise 9 oz. (250g) frozen spinach, defrosted 1 lemon, small, juiced 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 tsp nutmeg, ground 1 garlic clove Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place all the ingredients, except the spinach, into the blender. 2. Blend on medium speed for 5-10 seconds. 3. Add the defrosted spinach. 4. Pulse until the desired consistency is reached. 5. Season to taste and serve. Smoked Trout Dip 1 whole smoked trout with skin and bones removed 2 tbsp capers 1 tsp fresh dill 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/2 lemon, juiced Salt and pepper, to taste 11
1. Place the capers, dill, yogurt, and lemon juice into the blender. 2. Blend on medium speed for 5 seconds. 3. Add the smoked trout. 4. Pulse 2-3 times to break up the trout slightly, then continue blending until the desired consistency is reached. 5. Season to taste and serve. White Bean and Chive Dip 14 oz. (400g) can cannellini beans, drained and washed 2 garlic cloves 2.5 fl. oz. (75ml) olive or vegetable oil 1.5 tbsp tahini paste 2 tsp chives, chopped 1 lemon, small, juiced Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place all the ingredients, except the chives, into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to medium. 3. Once blended to a paste, remove. 4. Stir in the chives and serve. 12
SOUPS The blender is the perfect tool in the kitchen for creating warming, healthy soups. So simple to make, the blender will puree the ingredients for a delicious meal, ready in minutes. Soup is a great way to incorporate extra vegetables into your diet. Now you can enjoy freshly cooked soup any day of the week. Pumpkin Soup Serves 4 18 oz. (500g) pumpkin, peeled, de-seeded, and chopped 1 cup vegetable stock or water 1 brown onion, peeled and quartered 1/2 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp cumin Salt and pepper, to taste Cream, to garnish 1. Place the onion, stock or water, nutmeg, and cumin into the blender. 13
2. Start blending on low speed. 3. Slowly add the pumpkin through the small opening in the lid. 4. Gradually increase the speed to maximum. 5. Once all the ingredients are pureed, blend on maximum speed for 5 minutes, or until steaming. 6. Season to taste, garnish with cream, and serve. Broccoli Soup Serves 4 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 medium brown onion, quartered 1 stalk celery, roughly chopped 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped 4 cups broccoli, including stems, roughly chopped 2 cups vegetable stock or water 1 1/2 cups milk 1. Place the olive oil in a saucepan on medium heat. 2. Place the onion and celery into the blender and chop on medium speed. 3. Remove the onion and celery from the blender and soften in the pan. 4. Add the onion and celery back into the blender, then add the stock, milk, broccoli, and potato. 5. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum. 6. Blend for approximately 5 minutes, or until steaming. 7. Season to taste and serve. 14
Potato and Leek Soup Serves 6 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 stalk celery, roughly chopped 21 oz. (600g) potatoes, peeled and chopped 1 large leek, roughly chopped 27 fl. oz. (800ml) vegetable stock 4 tbsp cream Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the olive oil in a pan or saucepan on medium heat. 2. Place the celery and leek into blender and chop on medium speed. 3. Remove the celery and leek from the blender and soften in the pan. 4. Add the celery and leek back into the blender, then add the stock and potatoes. 5. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum. 6. Blend for approximately 5 minutes, or until steaming. 7. Stir in the cream, season to taste, and serve. Sweet Potato, Ginger, and Mirrin Soup Serves 4 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger 1/2 medium brown onion, peeled and quartered 2 cups sweet potato, peeled and chopped 2 cups vegetable stock or water 4 tbsp mirin or 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 15
Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the ginger, onion, and vegetable stock into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed. 3. Add the sweet potato through the small hole in the lid. 4. Gradually increase the speed to maximum. 5. Once all the ingredients are pureed, blend on maximum speed for 5 minutes, or until steaming. 6. Stir in the mirin (or white wine vinegar), season to taste, and serve. Tomato, Zucchini, and Basil Soup Serves 4 1/2 small red onion, peeled 2 garlic cloves 2 cups vegetable stock or water 1 zucchini 4 medium tomatoes 1/2 bunch basil Extra virgin olive oil, to garnish Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the onion, garlic, vegetable stock, zucchini, and tomatoes into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed and continue to blend for 5 minutes, or until steaming. 3. Add the basil and continue blending for another 5 seconds. 4. Season to taste and serve. 16
SAUCES A staple in any kitchen, sauces can be the finishing touch that separates a good meal from a great one. Simple sauces can be added to pasta, rice, or sandwiches for an extra bit of flavor. Basil and Pine Nut Pesto 1/2 garlic clove 1 bunch basil, including stems and leaves 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese Extra virgin olive oil Lemon juice, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the garlic, basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and small amount of olive oil into the blender. 2. Blend on low speed until all ingredients are well chopped. 17
3. Increase the speed to medium and add more olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. 4. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve immediately. Note: If storing the pesto for any length of time, cover the sauce with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation, which could cause the basil to brown slightly. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts 1 garlic clove 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese Extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a small amount of olive oil into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed and add more olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. You may need to turn the blender off and unplug it from the power outlet, then scrape down the sides. 3. Continue blending until all ingredients are evenly pureed. 4. Serve immediately or store in the fridge in an air tight container for 2-3 days. Romesco Sauce 2 red capsicum, quartered and de-seeded 4 garlic cloves 1 medium tomato 18
4.5 oz. (125g) whole blanched almonds 1/4 tsp smoked paprika 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 fresh chili 1. Place the capsicum, skin side up, on an oven tray under a grill on high heat. 2. Grill for 5-10 minutes or until the skins are blackened. 3. Place the blackened capsicum in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. 4. Refrigerate the bowl until the contents are cooled. 5. Remove the capsicum from the bowl, then peel and discard the skins. 6. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 7. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed and add more olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. You may need to turn the blender off and unplug it from the power outlet, then scrape down the sides. 8. Season to taste and serve immediately or store in the fridge in an air tight container for 2-3 days. Tip: This recipe is great with barbecued meats or as a sauce for any pasta. Napolitana Sauce 1 medium brown onion, peeled and quartered 2 garlic cloves 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 14 oz. (400g) cans diced tomatoes Handful of fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano, and basil, or 1 tbsp mixed dried herbs 19
Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the onion and garlic into the blender. 2. Blend on medium speed for 5-10 seconds or until roughly chopped. 3. Add the chopped onion and garlic mixture to a saucepan on medium heat and soften. 4. Place the tomatoes and herbs into the blender. 5. Blend on medium speed for 10-15 seconds or until smooth. 6. Add the tomato and herb mixture to the saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly. Simmering for longer will break down the tomato and enhance the flavor. 7. Season to taste. 8. Stir in pasta and serve with parmesan cheese. Bolognaise Sauce 1 medium brown onion, peeled and quartered 2 garlic cloves 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 14 oz. (400g) cans of diced tomatoes 18 oz. (500g) lean beef, veal, or pork, cubed or ground 8.5 fl. oz. (250ml) beef stock or water Handful of fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano, and basil, or 1 tbsp mixed dried herbs Salt and pepper, to taste 1. Place the onion and garlic into the blender. 20
2. Blend on medium speed for 5-10 seconds or until roughly chopped. 3. Add the onion and garlic mixture to a saucepan on medium heat and soften. 4. Place the cubed meat in the blender and pulse 3-5 times or until ground. Skip this step if using pre-ground meat. 5. Add the tomatoes and herbs to the blender. 6. Blend on medium speed for 10-15 seconds or until smooth. 7. Place the ground meat, tomato, and herb mixture in the saucepan and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring regularly. 8. Season to taste and serve with pasta and parmesan cheese. Alternatively, use the sauce for making other dishes, such as lasagna. 21
DESSERTS Desserts can be deliciously healthy or wickedly sweet. Ice creams are simple to make and will impress friends and family alike. Simple recipes, such as the Chantilly Cream, highlight the versatility and power of your blender. Banana and Honey Ice Cream Serves 6 2 bananas, peeled, roughly chopped, and frozen 2 tbsp honey 6 fl. oz. (175ml) milk 1 1/2 cups ice cubes 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum. Do not over-blend or the ice cream will start to melt. 3. Serve immediately. 22
Apple and Cinnamon Ice Cream Serves 4 1 banana, peeled, roughly chopped, and frozen 1 tsp cinnamon 3 apples, peeled, quartered, and de-seeded 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup milk 4 cups ice cubes 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum. Do not over-blend or the ice cream will start to melt. 3. Serve immediately. Mango Sorbet Serves 4 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 4 large mangoes, peeled, de-seeded, and frozen 1. Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. 2. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. 3. Cook without stirring for 5 minutes. 4. Cool the mixture overnight in the refrigerator. 5. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 23
6. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum. Do not over-blend or the sorbet will start to melt. 7. Serve immediately. Strawberry and Chocolate Dessert Sauce 1 small basket of fresh strawberries with stems and leaves removed 1/2 cup water 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp cocoa powder 3.5 oz. (100g) dark chocolate 1. Place the strawberries, water, sugar, and cocoa into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until all ingredients are well blended. 3. Add the blended mixture and the dark chocolate to a saucepan on low heat until the chocolate is melted. 4. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in an air tight container. Reheat to serve from the fridge. Whipped Chantilly Cream 10 fl. oz. (300ml) thickened cream 3 tbsp pure icing sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 24
2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum and blend for 5-10 seconds or until the desired consistency is reached. Do not overblend. Chocolate and Mint Mousse Serves 6 7 oz. (200g) dark chocolate 1 tbsp butter 2 oz. (50g) mint-flavored chocolate bar 10 fl. oz. (300ml) thickened cream 1 tbsp caster sugar (aka superfine or baker's sugar) 1. Place the chocolate, butter, and 2 tbsp cream into a saucepan or bain-marie and melt on low heat, stirring regularly. 2. Allow to cool slightly. 3. Place the thickened cream and sugar into the blender. 4. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increasing the speed to maximum and blend for 5-10 seconds or until the desired consistency is reached. Do not overblend. 5. Break up the mint-flavored chocolate bar and add it to the cream. 6. Start blending on low speed. 7. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture through the small hole in the lid until well combined. 8. Spoon the mixture into glasses or dessert dishes and chill in the refrigerator. Serve chilled. 25
SMOOTHIES AND JUICES Smoothies and juices are easy to make and provide a refreshing way to include for fruits and vegetables to your diet. Healthy Green Smoothie 1 cup water 3/4 cup kale, with the ribs and stems removed 1 stalk celery 1 banana 1 apple, cored and quartered 1/2 cup ice 1/2 lemon, juiced 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then increase the speed to maximum until well combined. 3. Serve and enjoy! 26
Berry and Banana Smoothie 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries 1 banana 1 cup milk 1/2 cup ice 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until well combined. Add extra milk if the consistency is too thick. 3. Serve and enjoy! Peach and Honey Smoothie 1 peach, sliced and frozen 1/2 banana 1 tbsp honey 1 cup milk 1/2 cup ice 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then increase the speed to maximum until well combined. 3. Serve and enjoy! Almond and Cinnamon Milkshake 1 1/2 cups almond milk 1 tsp vanilla extract 27
1 tsp cinnamon 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then increase the speed to maximum until well combined. 3. Serve and enjoy! Apple and Watermelon Juice 1 cup watermelon, de-seeded 1 apple, cored and quartered 1/2 cup ice 1. Place the ingredients into the blender in the order listed above. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until well combined. 3. Serve and enjoy! 28
NUT MILKS AND BUTTERS Nut milks are a healthy alternative to cow's milk for vegans or those with food allergies. Making your own at home ensures that you can control the amount of sugar and flavorings that are added to your diet. Nut butters and spreads are a delicious, homemade version of your favorites that everyone will love. Almond Milk 1 cup almonds Water for soaking the nuts 3 cups water 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional) 1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. 2. Place the almonds in the boiling water and allow to boil for exactly 1 minute. 3. Drain the water from the nuts and rinse with cold water. 4. Using your fingers, gently squeeze the almonds to loosen and remove the skins. 5. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 29
6. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until well blended. 7. Strain the milk. 8. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in an air-tight container for 2-3 days. Cashew Nut Milk 1 cup unsalted cashews Water for soaking the nuts 3 cups water 1. Cover the nuts with water and soak in the fridge overnight. 2. Drain the water from the nuts. 3. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 4. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until well blended. 5. Strain the milk. 6. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in an air-tight container for 2-3 days. Peanut Butter 3 cups peanuts 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until a coarse paste forms. 3. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature. 30
Hazelnut and Brazil Nut Butter 1 1/2 cups hazelnuts 1 1/2 cups Brazil nuts 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to maximum until a coarse paste forms. 3. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature. Cashew and Chocolate Spread 2 cups unsalted cashews 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 cup pure icing sugar 1/3 cup cocoa powder 1 tsp vanilla extract Pinch of salt 1. Place the cashews and oil into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed until a coarse paste forms. 3. Add the remaining ingredients and continue to blend until a smooth paste forms. 4. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature. 31
Almond and Honey Spread 3 cups almonds 1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1. Place all the ingredients into the blender. 2. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase the speed until a paste forms. 3. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature. 32