What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass that is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but can be cheaper than gas hobs. They also work with almost all cookware brands, but induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole or a dent. The name is also related to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or a hill.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are usually kind, but they can also be annoying if they are offended. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
Another common use of the word is to refer to a type of cooking device. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is usually flat and is adorned with cooking elements, including rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced by an elongated rock that is used as a goal for quoits.
The first documented usage of the term "hob and oven" is from the beginning of the 16th century. It was probably used at the same time as the feminine form, hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are famous for their pranks, despite their benign nature. They can also be very destructive when they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK but they can also be used in other countries too. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled by a single button and are compatible together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These types of features are attracting customers to purchase these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features, such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and they heat up only when in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also deactivated immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features can be especially useful in the home where children or guests may be present.
In addition, induction stoves require less gas than traditional stoves, which can help reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature a 'Stop & Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions that connects two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone that is controlled by a single control for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones allows you to cook using larger or smaller pans and pots.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs and a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the specified time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary lines that blend with other appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs that have automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs, as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also have sensors to detect when cookware isn't in contact with the oven, which can protect against electrical shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs oven that are available, so it's important to consider which one is best ovens and hobs uk suited to your kitchen. The most common features are heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you select will also have an affect your budget as well as the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. They are a preferred option for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. Furthermore, they are not affected by power interruptions and work with a variety of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame and ensure that the stove is adequately protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs, another option in the kitchen, use electric elements under a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They are affordable and provide excellent heat distribution for flat-based objects. They are more difficult to cool and heat than other hobs and aren't easy for cleaning.
Halogen ovens hobs resemble electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp that creates heat on the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some are equipped with touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen but they could be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Inadequately cleaned pans and unsupervised cleaning can lead to fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or anyone else. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are an important cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to break or shatter, which could pose a fire risk. Fortunately, the majority of hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems utilize power modulation to ensure that heat output is constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and the surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong as those generated by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs and ovens can only be used with certain types cookware. It's important to make sure that your saucepans and pots are induction ready before you use them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a quick way to test. If the pan is able to stick it is compatible with an induction stove. Using the wrong type of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an accident.
It is also important to ensure that children and other people stay away from the stove when it is being used, as the surface can get extremely hot. Likewise, you should use best oven gloves when you touch handles on metal pans as they can also be very hot. It is also crucial to turn your oven off straight after use as they can remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs and you are in danger, follow the fire services advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as soon as you can.