For most pureeing jobs, the food processor is the easiest and fastest tool. But depending on the texture you require, from hearty soups to creamy sauces, other tools may fit the bill better. Priscilla Martel defines the benefits offered by some basic kitchen tools: mashers; mortar and pestles; sieves, both conical and drum; ricers; food mills; and immersion blenders. She even touches on the most basic mashing tool—the fork. Martel details how each is best used, how to select them, their strengths and weaknesses, and respective cleaning needs. Resource information is included in the article.