11 "Faux Pas" Which Are Actually OK To Do With Your Best Hobs
11 "Faux Pas" Which Are Actually OK To Do With Your Best Hobs
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The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of the flame. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to only warm up the copper coils below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with its own functions and an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However, the heat distribution is uneven. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating and the lowest power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels according to the pots or pans you use. Additionally, the "Power boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed the boiling process. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating so you never have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a fantastic low-cost induction hob that is easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified with a ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. There's also a touch-control panel. It has large 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are still the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is useful for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget to turn off a burner on, or switch it off by accident as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction cousins because they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for an hood. This can help save space in Best place to buy oven and hob your kitchen, and also create an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding rather than built-in versions. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener alternative. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can think about this alternative. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they use less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll have to buy kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who don't wish to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this might not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and durable design, are perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other options.
We recommend looking for reviews on the websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you a true insight into the quality of the product however, it will also assist you in finding one that is right for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished with long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their instant heating and easy control, they are also popular because they provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has sleek design and touch controls. Avoid those with buttons or dials that protrude. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. For safety, choose one with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs to stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob effortlessly.
Consider a dual-fuel hob which has both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set specific cooking times so that food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long and makes your food less tasty.
To make cooking more convenient, a model with two separate zones for cooking pans of different sizes and shapes may be the best option. This will save space and is ideal when cooking using large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and more expensive models that cost up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you prefer a glass model there are a variety of excellent options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require special supplies with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.