How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
We have a range of sizes, styles and features that will fit in with any kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are simple to use and are durable. They have metal plates with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They are ideal for flat-based products and may be economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are commonly used in kitchens around the world to bake and roast foods. They are typically powered by gas or electricity. The models with gas bottles are available in some markets. However ovens can also powered by other fuels, such as wood or charcoal. In many homes the oven is usually surrounded by a kitchen hob, where food can be prepared. Hobs are essentially a stove that can be turned on or off. An oven is a closed space that heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were huge brick and mud structures that contained the ability to burn in order to cook food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and cooking other meals because they held heat well and maintained a constant temperature. They were also able to be shared between family members. Open pits and ovens had three major disadvantages: they were dangerous because of the smoke and flames that could be seen from them as well as the use of a lot of fuel (wood) and they were difficult to control the heat and cooking.
The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that closed off the fire to reduce the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to control. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries and were typically found in households that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen with a chimney, and having more than one oven and fireplace.
By the mid-19th Century, European ovens were a common feature in kitchens. It was partly due to the fact that the oven was essential. It was more secure and efficient to cook over an open flame or in a cauldron. However, it is also believed that the advent of the oven coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, which resulted in more emphasis on meat and casseroles.
In certain recipes, like those by Nigella she may recommend cooking the pan "on the hob". However this could be confusing because a hob used in British English refers to a stovetop (learn more). If you're not familiar with British terminology and terminology, the North American equivalent would be the term cooktop or range.
Functions
The oven's functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options that regulate the way in which the oven with hob's heating elements as well as the fan work based on the recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more efficiently and effectively while preserving the flavor and texture.
The majority of ovens have a traditional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food items. There is also a fan-assisted mode that uses an integrated fan to circulate the air around the oven, which allows for an even and faster heating. There are a variety of options for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the distinctions to decide the best hob one for you.
A fan-assisted oven feature is ideal for cooking a variety of food items. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It is particularly useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pie that require a fast, clean finish. The Fan-Assisted setting comes with an angled top and a line on the bottom. It can cut down up to 40 percent of cooking time.
Certain ovens come with a grilling feature that combines heat from the bottom and top of the oven, giving your food the perfect charcoal. This is a great option for kebabs of meat and vegetables and can be identified by zigzag lines and straight lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This is typically used on the lower rack of the oven, so make sure to pay attention to the temperature settings of your oven to avoid overcooking.
There are other oven functions that include proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, baking and much other things. They are typically programmed to create a warm and controlled environment to facilitate the rising of dough and help your food develop amazing flavors.
Certain ovens have steam functions that are ideal for creating healthy and nutritious food. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavor to baked items, poultry, vegetables and custards. This feature is activated by placing water into the reservoir of your oven and then turning it on. Certain models can adjust the amount of steam automatically depending on the temperature selected.
Types
There are many kinds of oven and hob that are available, ranging from traditional gas models to modern electric models. Choosing one that meets your needs and style will make a significant difference to how it is easy to cook in your home. It is worth considering features such as self-cleaning and smart functions too.
Gas ovens and hobs uk are suitable for many kitchens and are a popular choice. They are easy to use because they have rings on the burners as well as the grate that pans sit on that emits heat. Gas hobs are also known to be energy efficient and offer precise temperature control, meaning they can cut down on your utility bills. They may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and may be more difficult to clean with residue.
Electric hobs come in many different designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are more expensive, but they are energy efficient because the hob only is heated when you put a pot on it. They are also cool to the touch, making them safer for children, and are relatively quick to warm up. However, they do not always cook evenly and can be slow to cool down.
Plate hobs are another staple of the kitchen, with an array of electric cooking zones, all on a flat surface that sits underneath your kitchen appliances. They have a sleek, modern design that is perfect for all kitchens. They are difficult to clean as they have multiple zones of uneven heating. If not cleaned properly, they can leave burn marks.
The most common model is the built-in single oven. These can be installed under a hob or on the floor in cabinets with built-in ovens. They are usually large enough to hold a large meal and can come in a variety of sizes, so make sure to consider your family size when you choose an oven. They can also be found with additional options such as an oven with a grill or a steam function.
Installation
If you're planning on installing a brand new oven or replacing one you have, it may be worth getting an electrician to handle the installation for you. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly installed and that the new oven is safe to use. A licensed electrician will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that the installation is in compliance with all applicable safety regulations.
You'll require all the tools and materials you require prior to beginning the installation process of your new electric oven and stove. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. It's also important to check the electrical supply at your home to ensure it is able to handle the load of a brand new electric oven and hob.
The first step in the process of putting in a new stove and oven is to take out any old appliances. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance in place and remove them with care. After the old appliance is removed from the area it should be cleared of any obstructions. Then, a junction box needs to be mounted and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. This must be done in accordance with manufacturer's instructions as well as any relevant local regulations.
Once the electrical connections are completed, the oven and hob can be moved into place. The fitter will utilize the clips that came with the hob in order to fix it and ensure that it is flush with your worktop. The fitter will test the hob and make sure that it's working correctly.
If you're installing a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea to hire a professional for the job. Gas installation isn't quite as easy as plugging in a brand new electric oven. It requires the services of a CORGI registered engineer to connect the pipes. It's also recommended to purchase an oven hood fitted in the event that you don't have one, as this will help to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.