Best Hobs: A Simple Definition
Best Hobs: A Simple Definition
Blog Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, 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 easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to only heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch which makes it safer to use and simpler to clean. They boil water faster than a kettle and use less energy. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen and we love this sleek, premium model by AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as a handy minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and alter their power levels to suit the pans or pots you use and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function and a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be wired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with a ring or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil is beneath it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It features large "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best option for cooking in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups as well as for frying eggs and meats and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately generate high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also makes it easy to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's much harder to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and remove the need for the Hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as creating a sleeker design that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They're easier to install and provide more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another advantage of choosing freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. But, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're looking for a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the option to choose. Hobs that induction are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to buy induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't want to invest in the technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a difficult scouring. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. However, they are behind induction hobs when it comes to energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They are easy to heat up, making them an ideal choice for those who don't need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use like the other choices on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an accurate view of the performance of the product and will help you find the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and easy control, they are also a popular choice because they can provide instant heating. And with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might prefer an electronic display that allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Look into a dual-fuel stove which has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set cooking times for meals so they are ready when needed which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone to accommodate pans hobs oven of various dimensions and shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for extra cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you prefer glass there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.