How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're in the market for a new oven or hob we've got the sizes and features to fit your kitchen.
Generally simple to use and hard-wearing solid plate hobs feature sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. They're great for flat-based dishes and are economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are used in kitchens across the globe to bake and roast food items. They typically are powered by electricity or gas, with models that use bottle gas that are available in certain markets however ovens can additionally use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In many homes the oven is located by a kitchen hob, where food can be cooked. The difference between a stove and an oven is that a hob has burners that are able to be turned on and off and off, while an oven has an enclosure where food is heated in the center.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures, which contained the ability to burn in order to cook food. These ovens were used for baking bread, cooking meat, and cooking other meals because they held heat well and maintained a consistent temperature. They could also be shared by family members. However, open pits and furnaces came with three major disadvantages - they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to regulate the heat and cooking process.
The solution was to use ovens that looked like fireplaces. They included a chimney to block off the fire, thus reducing the intensity and amount of smoke. This made it easier to control. These were common in the 16th and 17th century. They were found in wealthy homes with separate kitchens with a chimney, and more than one fireplace and oven.
By the mid-19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. This was partly because the oven was an essential feature, as it was more secure and efficient to cook in an oven rather than on an open flame or with a cauldron. It is also believed that the development and use of the oven was with changes in cooking styles and recipes, leading to a greater focus on meat and casseroles.
In some recipes, such as those made by Nigella she might suggest placing a pan "on the hob". However this could be confusing since a hob in British English refers to an oven. If you're not familiar with British terminology, the North American equivalent would be a range or cooktop.
Functions
Oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are pre-programmed settings that control the way in which the oven's heating elements as well as the fan function based on the recipe you're making. They are designed to make cooking food easier and more efficient while maintaining the taste and texture.
Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. There is also a fan-assisted mode which makes use of an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, which allows for a more even and quicker heating. There are a myriad of types of ovens and hobs to choose from, and it's important to be aware of the different features to find out the ones that are best hobs for your needs.
A fan-assisted oven function is ideal for cooking a variety of foods. It warms up the oven more evenly than traditional ovens and is perfect for grilling, baking, and roasting. It's particularly helpful for dishes that need a fast, crisp finish like pizza or pies. The Fan-Assisted setting is identified by a zigzag on the top and a straight line at the bottom of a square, and it can cut down up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens have grilling options that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven to give your food a delicious charcoal. This is the perfect mode for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and is marked with zigzag lines and straight lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This is typically used on the lower rack of the oven, so be careful to observe the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.
There are also other oven functions that include bread and pastry proofing slow cooking, baking, and other things. They are typically programmed to create a warm, controlled environment to facilitate the rising of dough and help your food develop amazing flavours.
There are ovens that have steam functions, which are perfect for creating healthy, nutritious meals. It adds a small amount of moisture to your food, which preserves tenderness and adds an exquisite, rich flavor to vegetables, poultry baked products and even custards. Using this function is as simple as pouring water into the reservoir of your oven and turning it on, with certain models automatically altering the amount of steam depending on the temperature that is selected.
Types
There are a variety of ovens and hobs that are available on the market. They vary from traditional gas models to contemporary electric models. It is essential to choose an oven and hob that suits your needs. Think about features like self-cleaning or smart capabilities.
Gas ovens are suitable for many kitchens and are a popular choice. They are simple to use as they have rings on the burners as well as an grate on which pans rest and emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and offer precise temperature control. This can help you lower your energy bills. However, they may take longer to heat than electric and can be difficult to clean if they are coated with a residue.
Electric hobs come in a variety of different designs that include ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be somewhat more expensive to purchase however they are considered energy efficient as the hob only generates heat when you place a pot over it. They are also safe for children and heat up relatively quickly. However, they do not always heat the pan evenly and may take a while to cool down.
Plate hobs and ovens are another stalwart of the kitchen, with an array of electric cooking zones, all on an even surface that is placed under your kitchen units. They are sleek and have a modern look that will complement all kitchens. They are difficult to clean because they have a variety of zones with uneven heating. If not properly cleaned they may leave burn marks.
The most commonly used type is the built-in single-oven. These can be installed on top of a stove, or at eye-level in an built-in cabinet. They are often big enough to accommodate a big meal and can come in different sizes, so make sure to take into consideration your family's size when selecting an oven. You can also find them with additional features, such as grill or steam functions.
Installation
If you're installing a new oven or replacing one you have, it might be worthwhile to hire an electrician to handle the installation for you. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly installed and your new appliance is safe to use. A qualified electrician can follow local regulations to ensure your installation is in line with all safety standards.
You'll need all the tools and equipment you need before you begin the installation of your new electric hob and oven. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. Make sure you check the electrical supply at home to make sure it is able to handle an electric hob or oven.
The first step of putting in a new stove and oven is to get rid of any old appliances. To do this, find the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance in place and remove them with care. After the old appliance has been removed from the area it must be cleaned and free of obstructions. Next a junction box must be erected and connected to the electrical supply using conduit. It is essential to follow the directions of the manufacturer and any local regulations.
After electrical connections are established then the oven and the hob can be lifted into place. The fitter will utilize the clips that came with the hob to secure it and ensure it's flush with your worktop. The fitter will then test the hob and ensure that it's functioning properly.
If you're planning to install a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea to hire a professional for the task. Gas installation isn't as simple as connecting an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer must connect the pipework. Installing a cooker hood is also an option for those who don't have one. This will help ventilate your kitchen and is required under Part F of Building Regulations.