Best Hobs Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of flames. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch which makes it safer to use and easier to clean. They boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones, each with its specific functions and a minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is patchy. This is a frequent complaint with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to fit your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' that prevents overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by a ring or cross to indicate where the center of the coil is it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans easily, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front, middle and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
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 the best choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see the status of each burner at glance. This is very useful to ensure security. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally turn on an appliance or forget it was turned on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. ovens uk 'll have to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up faster and evenly, reducing energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This will save space in your kitchen, and also create an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Due to their efficiency and ease of use, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you want to go green. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to purchase induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require hard scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy use this might not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and reliable design, are ideal for everyday cooking. They are easy to get hot, making them a great option for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an accurate view of the performance of the product however, it will also aid you in locating the right one 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 are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, creating a a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs can be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and control, they are also popular because they can provide instant heat. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that's streamlined with touch controls and without buttons or dials hanging out. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For security, opt for models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, so you can manage your stove effortlessly.
Look into a dual-fuel stove which has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports to accommodate traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that allows you to set cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one larger zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much either as there are some fantastic options that are made by own brand. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs need a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a qualified electrician.