I bought this blender to puree soups and stews, and I've been very happy with it. It's not an industrial quality blender, but it fits my needs perfectly. It also comes with a 2-cup measuring cup that can be used to blend small amounts. Or, you can blend things directly in the pot that you're cooking them in. Mine has successfully blended mushrooms, root vegetables, and corn, all with no problem. The mushrooms did get caught in the blade guard a few times, but they were easy to get out with a few shakes of the blender. This blender would also be perfect for making smoothies, and I look...