How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're looking for an oven or hob that is new, we've got the sizes and features to fit your kitchen.
It is generally easy to use and hard-wearing solid plate hobs are sealed metal plates that cook your cookware. They are suitable for flat-based cookware and can be economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are kitchen appliances that are used to roast and bake food in households around the world. They typically are powered by gas or electricity with bottle gas models that are available in certain markets however ovens can also use other fuels like charcoal or wood. In a lot of homes the oven is surrounded by a hob that food items can be cooked. A hob is a type of burner that can be turned on and off. An oven is a closed enclosure which heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures, which contained fire in order to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and cooking other meals since they were able to hold heat and maintained a constant temperature. They could also be shared among family members. However, open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were dangerous due to the smoke and flames that could be seen as well as the consumption of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.
A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney which shut off the fire to reduce its intensity and smoke and make it easier to control. They were popular in the 16th and 17th century. They were found in homes of the wealthy with separate kitchens with a chimney, and more than one oven and fireplace.
In the late 19th century, European ovens were a common fixture in kitchens. This was due to the fact that the oven was essential, since it was safer and more efficient to cook food in an oven rather than on an open flame or with a cauldron. However, it is also believed that the invention of the oven coincided with changes in cooking techniques and recipes that led to an increased emphasis on casseroles and meat.
In certain recipes, like those of Nigella she may suggest leaving the pan "on the hob". However it could be confusing, because a hob in British English is a stovetop. If you're unfamiliar with British terminology it is possible that the North American equivalent would be a cooktop or range.
Functions
Oven functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed choices that control how the oven's heating elements as well as the fan operate depending on your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more simple and more efficient while also maintaining the flavor and texture.
Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. They also have a fan-assisted option that uses a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven to ensure more even and faster heating. There are a myriad of types of ovens and hobs to choose from, and it's essential to know the various options to figure out the ones that are best for your needs.
A fan-powered oven is ideal for cooking a variety of food items. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is perfect for grilling, baking and roasting. It is especially helpful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pies that require a quick, clean finish. The Fan-Assisted setting has a zigzag at the top and a line at the bottom. It can save up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens come with grilling features that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven, giving your food an amazing charcoal. It's perfect for kebabs of meat or vegetables, and can be marked with the zigzag and straight lines similar to Fan-Assisted. This is usually used on the lower 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 other things. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm and controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough. It also helps your food develop amazing flavors.
Certain ovens have a steam function that is perfect for making healthy and nutritious food. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavor to baked items including poultry, vegetables, and custards. This feature is activated by placing water into the oven's reservoir and then turning it on. Certain models can adjust the amount of steam in accordance with the temperature set.
Types
There are many kinds of ovens and hobs available that are available that range from traditional gas to modern electric models. Picking the one that best suits your preferences and style will make a significant difference in how easy it is to cook at home. It is worth considering features such as self-cleaning and smart capabilities too.
Gas ovens work well in many kitchens and are a popular choice. They are simple to use because they have rings around the burners and a grate where pans rest which emits heat. Gas hobs can also be energy efficient and provide precise temperature control, meaning they can reduce your energy costs. They may take longer to warm up than electric hobs, and they can be more difficult to clean with the residue.
Electric hobs come in a variety of styles including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are a bit more expensive but they are energy efficient because the hob only heats up when you place the pot on it. They are also cool to the touch, which makes them safer for children, and are relatively quick to heat up. They are also slow to cool off and don't heat up evenly.
Plate hobs are another stalwart of the kitchen, offering an array of cooking zones on flat surfaces that are placed beneath your kitchen units. They sport a sleek, modern design that is perfect for all kitchens. They aren't easy to keep clean, as they contain multiple cooking zones, which can cause uneven heating and can leave burn marks on the surface if they are not properly cleaned.
Single ovens that are built-in are the most commonly used type of oven, and they can be installed under a hob or at eye level in an integrated unit. When choosing an oven, think about the size of your family. They are usually large enough to hold a big meal and are available in various sizes. They are also available with additional options, such as the grill or steam function.
Installation
If you're planning on installing a brand new oven or replacing an old one, it might be worthwhile to hire an electrician to manage 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 will be able to follow local regulations and ensure that the installation is in compliance with all applicable safety codes.
You'll need all the tools and supplies you need before you begin the installation process of your new electric oven and stove. This includes wire nuts, a screwdriver, electrical tape and a tester for electrical circuits and conduit. It's also important to test the electrical supply in your home and make sure it is able to handle the load of a new electric oven and hob.
The first step in the process of installing a new hob and oven is to take out any old appliances. To do this, find the screws or bolts that hold the old appliance and then remove them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the area where the new one will be installed should be free of obstructions. Then the junction box will need to be mounted and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. This must be done in accordance with manufacturer's instructions as well as any relevant local regulations.
Once electrical connections are established, the oven or hob is then lowered into the desired position. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to fix it in place and ensure that it is flush with the worktop. Finally, the fitter will test the hob and ensure that it's functioning properly.
If you're installing a gas oven and hob it's a good idea employ a professional for the job. Gas installation isn't as simple as plugging in a new electric oven and requires the services of a CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipes. It's also a good idea to get an oven hood fitted in case you don't have one, as it can help in ventilating your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.