10 Quick Tips To Hobs
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. They also work with almost every cookware type, but induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is akin to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, hill or a crag.
Folklore says that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, but can become an issue if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
A cooking device is a different type of cooking device that is used extensively. A hob is a metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of the plate is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements like rings. In some cases the hob can be replaced by an elongated rock that is used as a goal for quoits.
The first recorded use of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was probably taken over as the feminine form, hobgoblin. The word hob originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are famous for their Pranks, despite their innocent nature. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example was able to put a cart onto its roof. This caused a huge inconvenience to the farmer. Moreover they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly found in the UK but they can also be used in other countries, too. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled with the push of an electronic button, and can be utilized alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These features are attracting consumers. Some models also have advanced safety features, such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and they heat up only when they come into contact with compatible cookware that reduces the chance of burns. Furthermore the power is shut off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home where guests and children are likely to be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for ease of use when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge functions that connects two induction cooking zones to create a large zone that is controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are easy to read and operate. Many also offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crannies that could collect dirt over time, like traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary designs that match other appliances and décor.
Sensors are employed in hobs with automatic shut-off functions. They check the surface of the hob for signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs since it decreases the chance of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to determine when cookware isn't touching it. This helps protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs to choose from. It is crucial to choose the best one for your kitchen. Some features are: heat control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you choose will also impact on your budget as well as the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. Many cooks at home choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. However, gas hobs can be more costly to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that the stove is properly secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option in the kitchen make use of electric elements on a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based items. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs, but have a filament bulb that heats the surface. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric hobs but they are still not as fast to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature control knobs that are touch-based while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. They are not as good in the process of simmering, and might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you do not take the necessary precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can cause fires which could ruin your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause the cookware to break or shatter, which could pose an fire risk. Fortunately, many hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems employ power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output remains constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob and its components, while protecting the other kitchen surfaces.
Induction hobs are safe for use, even though some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as strong and powerful like those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It is important to ensure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the base of the pan is a quick method to test. If the pan stays to the magnet, it's compatible with an induction hob. Making the wrong choice of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an accident.
It is also essential to ensure that children and other people stay away from the cooking area when it's in use, as the surface can become extremely hot. It is recommended to wear oven gloves to touch handles on the metal pan since they are extremely hot. It is important to shut off your hob immediately after use, since it could remain hot for a while. Follow the advice of the fire service and call 999 as fast as you can in the event that there is a fire.