The 3 Greatest Moments In Best Hobs History
The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The best hob s will be robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are 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 offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat only the copper coils underneath the pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch and is therefore safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with their specific functions and the minute timer. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate with the touch control panels, however one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven; however, it is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a great low-cost induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are identified with the ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There's also a touch-control panel. It has a large "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is an excellent option if you cook with a variety pans of various sizes and shapes that need to be heated up and simmered at the exact time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) remains the most popular choice in cooking in the kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to produce high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see each burner's status at a glance. This is very helpful to ensure security. It's much harder to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming 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 particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for the grill. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as creating a sleeker design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs instead of built-in models. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is an excellent option if you are looking to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can consider this option. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you will need to purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who do not need to invest in technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require lengthy scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they might not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to heat up, making them a good choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient like the other options on this list.
If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest choosing one that has been rated by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only provide a true insight into the quality of the product however, it will also aid you in locating the right one for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances and give it a minimalist and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and ease of control, they are also popular because they can provide instant heating. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking features like power increase settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has sleek design and control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with dials or buttons that are protruding. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface, and won't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may opt for a digital display that allows you to control your hob remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set certain cooking times so that your food is ready at the time you require it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
For added convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is ideal if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or grills to give you additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the right breakers and cables to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.