What is a Hob?
A
hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, however they require electricity. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands, but induction hobs require compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, but they can also be an issue if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
A cooking device is another common use. A hob is a metallic plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, like rings. In some cases the hob can be replaced by a flat rock which can serve as a goal for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the term "
oven hob" is from the early sixteenth century. It was probably acquired at the same time as the female form, hobgoblin. This is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature hobs are known to play games with people. They can be destructive if they are provoked. For instance, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. They are available in a variety of types, like electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with just a single button, and can be paired alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These features are attracting consumers. In addition, some models have advanced safety features, such as the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children or guests might be present.
Induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a "Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models also have the bridge function that connects two cooking zones induction into a single large zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones that have the ability to connect 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 offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power for the amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks
ovens and hobs crevices which can accumulate dirt over time, as with traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring style and sophistication to modern kitchens with sleek, modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it reduces the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also have sensors to determine when cookware is not in contact with the
oven hob and prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs available, so it's important to think about the one that is suitable for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of stove you select will also affect your budget, both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. They are a popular choice for cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used
oven with hob a wide range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups due to accident which is why you must be mindful of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. They are slower to heat and cool than other types of hobs and aren't easy to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, however they have a filament bulb that is used to heat the surface. They are more energy efficient however they require more time to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners that are exposed which makes them easier to clean. However, they aren't as efficient at simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be risky in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the
oven uk.
Overheating could cause damage or shatter cookware, which can create a fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components, and the surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as powerful and effective as those produced by mobile phone, and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with specific cookware types So it's essential to ensure that your pots and pans are ready for induction prior to making use of them. One way to test this is to place a magnet near the base of the pan.