Hamilton Beach Bowl Scraper Food Processor lends a hand

Cooking is an action sport. Oh sure, there are plenty of options for those who go the less dynamic route, but when it comes to prepping ingredients, activity is usually necessary. Certainly kitchen gadgets do their best to make life easier for those who choose to chop, slice, and dice, yet still there usually remains a need for direct involvement from the chef. Sometimes, however, it is the smallest of features on a gadget or appliance that lends the biggest hand.

The Hamilton Beach 70730 Bowl Scraper Food Processor ($49.99) is like having a third (blade-proof) hand in the kitchen. The simple contraption rests on top of the central blade shaft and features three arms that slide along the inside of the bowl, scraping away foods that so like to hide from the two-speed (plus pulse) spinning blades. True to the great tradition of food prep, the scraping mechanism is operated manually via a lever on top, so active chefs needn't worry that their actions aren't involved.

Convenience is all nice and good, but what really matters is if said kitchen appliance can get the job done. This handy little appliance features a 450-watt motor, a 10-cup capacity, and comes complete with a chopping blade and slicing/shredding disc. And as for that feeling of satisfaction that comes from creating a well-made meal, don't forget to give yourself a hand.