How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're in the market for an oven or a new hob, we've got the dimensions and styles, features and designs to fit your kitchen.
Solid plate hobs can be simple to use and durable. They are made of metal with sealed surfaces that heat your cookware. They're good for flat-based items and can be economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are used in kitchens all over the world to bake and roast foods. They are typically powered by electricity or gas with gas bottles that are available in certain markets but ovens can also use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In many homes, an oven is surrounded with a hob where food can be cooked. The difference between a hob and an oven is that a hob comes with burners that can be turned on and off while an best oven uk comes with an enclosure that allows food to be heated in the centre.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures that had fire to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and for cooking other foods since they were able to hold heat and maintained a consistent temperature. They were also able to be shared by family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major disadvantages - they were dangerous because of the open flame and smoke and they used a lot of fuel (wood) and was difficult to regulate the cooking process and heat.
The solution was to make ovens look like fireplaces. They had a chimney that blocked off the flame, reducing its intensity and smoke. This made it easier to manage. These were common in the 16th and early 17th century. They were common in wealthy households with a separate kitchen with a chimney as well as more than one fireplace and oven.
In the middle of the 19th century, European ovens were a common feature in kitchens. This was partly because the oven became a necessity, as it was more secure and efficient to cook in an oven than over an open flame or in a cauldron. It is believed that the advent of the oven coincided with the evolution of cooking methods and recipes, which led to more emphasis on meat and casseroles.
It is worth noting that in certain recipes, like those of Nigella she may suggest leaving a pot "on the hob" however this could be misleading as hob is actually an actual British term for stove top. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, so it can be confusing if not familiar with the British terminology.
Functions
The oven's functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed settings which control the way that oven's heating elements as well as the fan operate depending on your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food easier and more efficient while maintaining flavour and texture.
Ovens typically have a conventional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food items. They also come with a fan-assisted option which utilizes a built-in fan in order to circulate air throughout the oven for more even heating and faster speed. There are many options available for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the differences to determine the best Ovens and hobs uk one for you.
A fan-assisted oven feature is ideal to cook a variety of foods. It heats the oven more evenly than conventional ovens, and is perfect for grilling, baking and roasting. It is especially helpful for dishes like pizza and pie that require a quick crisp, smooth finish. The Fan-Assisted setting comes with a zigzag on top and a line at the bottom. It can cut down up to 40% of cooking time.
Certain ovens come with grilling options that combine heat from the bottom and top of the oven, giving your food the perfect char. This is the perfect mode for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be marked by straight lines and zigzag lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This mode is typically used on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings inside your oven to avoid overcooking.
Other oven functions include slow cooking baking, proofing bread and pastries and much more. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm, controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough. It also helps your food develop amazing flavor.
Some ovens have steam functions that are ideal for creating healthy and nutritious food. It imparts a delicate, rich flavor to baked items such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. It's just as simple as pouring the water into the reservoir inside your oven and turning it on, with certain models automatically altering the amount of steam based on the selected temperature.
Types
There are a myriad of ovens and hobs on the market. They range from traditional gas models to contemporary electric ones. Choosing one that meets your needs and style can make a huge difference in how easy it is to cook in your home. It is important to consider features like self-cleaning and smart capabilities too.
Gas ovens are a very popular option and are suitable for all kitchens. They are simple to use as they have rings on the burners and a grate where pans rest that emits heat. Gas hobs also tend to be energy efficient and offer precise temperature control, which means they can reduce your energy bills. However, they may take longer to heat than electric and can be difficult to clean if they are left with residues.
Electric hobs come in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be slightly more expensive to purchase but are considered to be energy efficient because the hob generates heat only when you place a pan over it. They are also safe for children and can heat up relatively quickly. However, they do not always cook uniformly and can take a long time to cool down.
Plate hobs, also an essential kitchen appliance, have an array of cooking zones that are all electrically powered on flat surfaces. They are positioned on top of your kitchen cabinets. They are sleek and have a modern design that can be a perfect match for all kitchens. They are difficult to clean as they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If not cleaned properly they could leave burn marks.
Single ovens with built-in ovens are the most popular type of oven, and they can be installed under a hob or above the eye level in an integrated unit. They are usually large enough to hold a large meal and can come in various sizes, so make sure to consider your family size when selecting an oven. There are also ovens with additional features like grill or steam features.
Installation
It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to set up a new oven for you or to replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly set up and that your new appliance is safe to use. An experienced electrician will be able to follow local regulations to make sure that your installation is in compliance with all safety standards.
You'll need all the tools and supplies you require prior to beginning the installation of your brand new electric oven and stove. Wire nuts, a screwdriver, and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. Make sure you check the electrical supply at home to ensure it can handle the new electric hob and oven.
The first step in the process of installing a new cooktop and oven is to remove any old appliances. Locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and take them off them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the area in which the new one is installed should be free of obstructions. The junction box must be erected, as well as the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is important to follow the directions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.
After electrical connections have been made, the oven and hob can be lowered into place. The fitter will utilize the clips that came along with the hob to fix it and ensure that it's flush with your worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to confirm that it is functioning properly.
If you're installing a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea engage a professional to do the task. Gas installation isn't quite as easy as plugging in a brand new electric oven, and requires the services of an CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipework. It's also an excellent idea to get a cooker hood installed in the event that you don't have one, as this will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.