What kitchen equipment is typically used to puree soups?

The immersion blender is specifically designed for pureeing soups directly in the pot, making it ideal for this task. It allows for blending without transferring the soup to another container, which can save time and reduce the risk of spills. The immersion blender's design, featuring a long shaft with blades, provides the ability to effectively blend ingredients into a smooth consistency while maintaining the soup's heat.

In comparison, a food processor, while capable of pureeing, typically requires you to transfer the soup away from the heat source, which can be cumbersome and may also lead to uneven blending if the soup is not small enough. A whisk is not suitable for pureeing, as it is better suited for mixing and incorporating air into liquids, rather than achieving a smooth texture. Lastly, a stand mixer is not practical for pureeing soups as it is designed for mixing larger quantities of ingredients in a bowl and may not achieve the same consistency as an immersion blender.