Consumer Reports explains how to use an immersion blender, a handheld electric mixing stick that's a handy kitchen alternative to a full-sized blender or mixer.

“An immersion blender combines the attributes of an automatic blender or mixer with the manual stirring motion of a spoon,” says Ginny Lui, who oversees CR’s blender testing.

Best of the best immersion blender Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender: available at Amazon Our take: A versatile and powerful hand blender with a comfortable contoured handle.

How do I properly use an immersion blender? A: This was a question that came up recently during our weekly live chat. Here’s how to use an immersion blender without splashing.

How do I properly use an immersion blender? Get the Eat Voraciously newsletter for delicious dinner inspiration, delivered straight to your inbox.