10 Things We All Love About Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. But, electric models be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to keep clean. You can speed up the cooking process by using features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do they employ magnetic technology to only warm the copper coils beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface, making them more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones, each with its specific functions and an hour timer. It has a smooth, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one minor gripe (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. hobs oven has an A+ energy rating and a low power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around within the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% for rapid boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your pan from overheating, so you don't need to worry about burning food.
This is a budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with a ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It has a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have set power levels in the front and back zones. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) is still the best when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high temperatures which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally turn on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to keep on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up faster and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves that combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can save on space in your kitchen, as well as creating a sleeker design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Due to their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of homeowners opt for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They are simpler to install and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
Another benefit of going for a freestanding model is the possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this option. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is the best option to choose. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly while the ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll require a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need difficult scouring. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they are behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the budget option with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for cooking at home. They're easy to warm up, which makes them a great option for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they do take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient like the other choices on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites when you're considering a solid-plate hob. Not only will this give you an honest insight into how it performs and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the perfect model for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks thanks to their rapid heat and simple control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without dials or buttons hanging out. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might prefer a digital display that lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas and induction burners. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times so that your food is cooked when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want a model that permits you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This can help 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 starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should still cost you less than PS200. If you're looking for glass models there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require special supplies with the right cables and breakers in order to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.