Looking For Inspiration? Look Up Hobs
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital element in every kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. They can also be used with nearly any type of cookware however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit, or dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which means a crag, a hill or a crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally benevolent but they can become a nuisance when offended. One of these hobs was Hobthrush, which was found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.
Another common usage of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking device. A hob is a metallic plate that is used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of the plate is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances the hob may be replaced by flat stones to permit it to be used as a target for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the word "hob" dates back to the 16th century in the early part of the century. It was likely acquired in the same timeframe as the female counterpart hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Despite their innocent nature hobs can play pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example could even place a cart on its roof. This was a major problem for the farmer. Additionally, they can be a pain to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled by one button and are compatible together with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These types of features are attracting buyers to buy these devices. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their speedy heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with cookware that is compatible. This reduces the chance for burns. The power is also deactivated immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stoves, which can help reduce the energy bills of households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest setting when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models also have a bridge function that joins two cooking zones induction into a single large zone that is controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones, with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. best oven offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power only for the necessary amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt in time, as do traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to modern kitchens with modern, sleek lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are employed in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They monitor the surface of the hob for signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs because it reduces the risk of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact it. This will stop electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It's important to choose the best one for your kitchen. Some of the features include: heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you select will also have an affect your budget, both the initial cost and ongoing costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. Many home cooks choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. best oven uk are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a wide range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups due to accident which is why you must be aware of the flame's openness and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements under glass or ceramic surfaces to heat your cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and offer good heat distribution for flat-based items. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but have filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more energy efficient however they require more time to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some have touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in faster heating and more even heat distribution. Additionally, induction hobs are easier to clean than other types of hobs due to the fact that they do not have grates or burners exposed. They aren't as efficient at simmering, and they may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you don't take the necessary precautions. Unsupervised pans and inadvertent cleaning could cause fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the most common causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to become damaged or even shatter, which can pose the risk of fire. Fortunately, many hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that heat output is constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob and its components, as well as protecting the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use although some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as powerful as those generated by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware, so it's important to verify that your cookware and pans are ready for induction prior to making use of them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a straightforward way to test. If the pan sticks it is compatible with an induction cooker. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could cause damage to your stove or even cause a fire.
It is also important to keep children and other persons away from the cooking area when it is in use, since the surface can become extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves when touching metal pan handles because they can be extremely hot. Also, it is important to turn your stove off immediately after use because they may remain hot for a time. Follow the instructions of the fire service and call 999 as soon as you can in the event that there's a fire.