20 Myths About Best Hobs: Busted
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The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs will be durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are more easy to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface and is safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a common appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen and we appreciate this sleek, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as an efficient minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with the lowest power consumption of 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels in accordance with the pots or pans you use. In addition, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which ensures that your pan is not overheated are also helpful features.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show you where the centre of the coil is beneath and there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front and back zones. This is a great option when cooking with a variety of pans of different shapes and sizes that need to be heated and simmered at the exact while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) still reigns supreme in kitchen cooking. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame's visual indicator allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving the burner on, or switch it off accidentally when compared to an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's nothing that can stop spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for the grill. This can help save space in your kitchen, as well as resulting in a sleeker design that will blend into any style of interior.
Because of their efficiency and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can think about this alternative. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is the best choice. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic-ceramic glass surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. You'll have to purchase an induction-compatible set of cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't need to invest in technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a hard scrubbing. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, a low-cost option with their basic and durable design, are great for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up, making them a great choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they may 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 websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a true insight into the performance of the product and will help you find the right one for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen and give it a minimalist and hob modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and easy control, they are also popular because they can provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking functions like power up settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Find an electric hob with a sleek design and control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with dials or buttons that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you select a flat surface that won't chip or scratch. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your hob effortlessly.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want an appliance that allows you to merge two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at various prices, from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should still cost you less than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune also, as there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.