How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
We offer a variety of sizes, styles and features that can be adapted to any kitchen.
The majority of them are simple to use and hard-wearing, solid plate hobs have sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. They're great for flat-based dishes and are cost-effective to run.
Origins
Ovens are kitchen appliances used to roast and bake food in households around the world. They are generally powered by electricity or gas. Bottle gas models are available in some markets. However, ovens can also be powered by other fuels like wood or charcoal. In many homes the oven is usually surrounded with a hob where food can be prepared. Hobs are essentially a stove that can be turned on or off. An oven is a closed enclosure that cooks food in the middle.
The first ovens were huge brick and mud structures, which contained fire to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and other dishes since they were relatively good at containing the heat to maintain an even temperature, and were able to be shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major disadvantages - they were risky because of the open flame and smoke as well as the consumption of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to regulate the heat and cooking process.
The solution was to use ovens that resembled like fireplaces. They had a chimney that secluded off the flame, reducing its intensity and smoke. This made it easier to manage. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries and were typically found in households that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen area with a chimney, as well as having more than one oven hob and fireplace.
In the late 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. This was partly because the oven became an essential feature, as it was more secure and efficient to cook food in an oven than over an open flame or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of ovens coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, which led to a greater focus on meat and casseroles.
In certain recipes, like those by Nigella she may suggest cooking the pan "on the hob". However it could be confusing, because a hob in British English is an oven. The North American equivalent is a cooktop or range, so it can be confusing if not familiar with British terminology.
Functions
The oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are preprogrammed settings which control the oven's heating element and fan according to your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food easier and more efficient, while preserving flavour and texture.
Ovens have a traditional mode that cooks food from the top to the bottom. They also have a fan-assisted option that makes use of a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven to ensure more even heating and faster speed. There are a variety of best ovens uk and hobs to pick from, and it's crucial to know the various options to figure out which ones are right for your needs.
A fan-assisted oven feature is ideal for cooking a variety of foods. It can heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It's particularly helpful for dishes that require quick, crisp and fast-drying, such as pizza or pie. The Fan-Assisted setting is identified by a zigzag on the top and an straight line at the bottom of a square, and can help you save up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens come with grilling functions that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with the top, giving your meals a delicious char. This mode is perfect for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be identified by straight lines or zigzag lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This mode is typically found on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings in your oven to prevent overcooking.
Other oven functions include slow cooking baking, proofing bread and pastries and many other things. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm, controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough and allow your food to develop wonderful flavours.
There are also some ovens and hobs uk that come with steam functions, which are ideal for creating healthy, nutritious foods. It imparts a delicate, rich flavour to baked goods including poultry, vegetables, and custards. It's just as simple as pouring the water into the reservoir in your oven and turning it on, with certain models even automatically altering the amount of steam depending on the temperature that is selected.
Types
There are a variety of ovens and hobs available that are available, ranging from traditional gas to modern electric models. Selecting one that is suitable for your requirements and preferences can make a huge difference in how easy it is to cook at home. Look into features such as self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.
Gas best ovens uk are a popular option and work well in all kitchens. They are simple to use since they come with rings on the burners as well as a grate where pans rest and emits heat. Gas hobs can also be energy efficient and have precise temperature control, which means they can reduce your energy bills. However, they may take longer to heat than electric hobs and are difficult to clean if they are coated with a residue.
Electric hobs come in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be a little more expensive, but they are energy efficient because the hob only heats up when you place a pot on it. They also remain cool to the touch, which makes them safer for children. They are fairly quick to heat up. However, they do not always heat uniformly and can take a long time to cool down.
Plate hobs, also an essential kitchen appliance, have various cooking zones that are all electrically powered on a flat surface. They sit on top of your kitchen cabinets. They provide a stylish, modern appearance that will look elegant and fit in with the majority of kitchens. They are difficult to clean as they have multiple zones of uneven heating. If they are not properly cleaned they could leave burn marks.
Single ovens that are built-in are the most popular kind of oven, and these can be fitted either underneath a hob or at eye level in an integrated unit. They are typically large enough to accommodate a large meal and can come in various sizes, so make certain to consider your family's size when you choose an oven. You can also find them with additional features, such as grill or steam features.
Installation
It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to install an oven that is new 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. A licensed electrician can adhere to local regulations to ensure your installation is in line with all safety codes.
You'll require all the tools and materials 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. Examine the electrical supply in your home to make sure it is able to handle a new electric hob and oven.
The first step in the process of putting in a new stove and oven is to remove any old appliances. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and then remove them carefully. After the appliance has been removed, the space where the new one is installed must be clear of any obstructions. The junction box must be mounted, and the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is important to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and any local regulations.
Once the electrical connections are established after which the oven or hob is then lowered into place. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to secure it to the wall and ensure that it's flush with the worktop. The fitter will test the hob and make sure that it's working correctly.
If you're installing a gas oven and hob it's a good idea to employ a professional for the task. Gas installation isn't as easy as connecting an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer is required to connect the pipework. It's also an excellent idea to get an oven hood fitted in the event that you don't have one as it will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.