How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're in the market for an oven or hob that is new, we have a variety of sizes and features to match your kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are simple to use and are durable. They have metal plates with sealed surfaces that heat your cookware. These are good for flat-based products and can be cost-effective to operate.
Origins
Ovens are commonly used in kitchens all over the world to roast and bake foods. They are typically powered by electricity or gas. The models with gas bottles are available in some markets. However, ovens can also be powered by other fuels, such as charcoal or wood. In a lot of homes, the oven is enclosed by a hob on which food can be cooked. The distinction between a hob and an oven is that a stove has burners that can be switched off and on, whereas an oven has an enclosure where food is heated in the centre.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures, which contained fire to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and other meals since they were capable of containing the heat to maintain an even temperature, and were able to be shared between family members. However, open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were dangerous because of the smoke and flames that could be seen and they used a lot of fuel (wood) and was difficult to regulate 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 manage. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were often found in household that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen with a chimney, and having more than one fireplace and oven.
By the middle of the 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in kitchens at home. It was partly due the fact that the oven was essential. It was more secure and efficient to cook over an open fire or in the cauldron. It is thought that the development of the oven coincided with the evolution of cooking techniques and recipes, which led to more concentration on meat and casseroles.
It is important to note that in certain recipes like those of Nigella, she will recommend leaving a pot "on the hob" but this can be misleading as hob is actually a British word for a stove top. If you're not familiar with British terminology, the North American equivalent would be a range or cooktop.
Functions
The oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are preprogrammed settings which control the oven's heating element as well as fan according to your recipe. They are designed to allow you to cook food more efficiently and effectively, while preserving flavour and texture.
Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. They also come with a fan-assisted option which uses a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven to ensure more even and faster heating. There are many different types of ovens and hobs to pick from, and it's crucial to understand the different features to find out which one is best suited to your needs.
The fan-powered feature of the oven is ideal to cook a range of food items. It can heat the oven more evenly than a traditional oven, and is great for grilling, baking and roasting. It is particularly useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pie that require a fast, clean finish. The Fan-Assisted setting features 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 options that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven, giving your food an amazing char. It's great for kebabs of meat or vegetables and can be marked by zigzags and straight lines like Fan-Assisted. This is usually used on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings in your oven to prevent overcooking.
There are also other oven functions for proofing of pastry and bread, slow cooking, and other things. They are typically preprogrammed to create a controlled, warm environment to help rise dough and develop flavours.
There are ovens with Steam functions that are perfect for creating healthy, nutritious foods. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavour to baked items such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. Utilizing this feature is as easy as pouring water into the reservoir inside your oven, then turning it on, with certain models automatically altering the amount of steam to depend on the temperature that is selected.
Types
There are a variety of ovens and hobs available that are available that range from traditional gas models to modern electric models. Selecting one that is suitable for your needs and style can make a big difference in how it is easy to cook in your home. Think about features like self-cleaning or smart features.
Gas ovens are a common option and work well in all kitchens. They usually come with burners with rings and an grate that the pans sit on, which releases heat, which makes them simple to use. Gas hobs are also energy-efficient and provide precise temperature control. This can help lower your energy bills. They may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and can be more difficult to clean, due to the residue.
Electric hobs are available in a variety of different styles that include ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are more expensive but they are energy efficient since the hob only is heated when you put a pot on it. They also stay cool to the point of contact, making them safer for children. They are relatively quick to heat up. They can also be slow to cool down and do not warm up evenly.
Plate hobs are another staple of the kitchen, offering an array of cooking zones on an even surface that is placed under your kitchen units. They have a sleek modern design that look elegant and fit in with the majority of kitchens. They aren't easy to keep clean, as they have multiple cooking zones that have uneven heating and can leave burn marks on the surface if they are not properly cleaned.
The most commonly used type is the built-in single-oven. They can be set up on top of a stove, or in a built-in cabinet. They are typically large enough to accommodate a big dinner and are available in different sizes, so be certain to consider your family's size when selecting an oven. They can also be found with additional options such as an oven with a grill or a steam function.
Installation
If you're planning on installing a brand new oven or replacing an old one, it may be worth getting an electrician to handle the installation for you. This will ensure the electrical circuit is installed and that your new oven is safe to use. An experienced electrician will be able to follow local regulations to ensure your installation is in line with all safety regulations.
Before beginning the process of installing your new electric oven or hob you'll need all the required supplies and tools on hand. Wire nuts, a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. Make sure you check the electrical supply at home to make sure it can handle an electric hob or oven.
The first step of putting in a new stove and oven is to take out any old appliances. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and remove them with care. After the appliance is removed, the space where the new one will be installed must be clear of any obstructions. Next a junction box must be installed and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. It is important to follow the directions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.
After electrical connections are completed after which the oven and hob can be lowered into place. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to hold it to the wall and ensure that it's flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is working correctly.
It is best to employ an expert to install a gas stove and oven. Gas installation is not like connecting an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer must connect the pipework. Installing an oven hood is an option to consider in the event that you don't already have one. This will allow air to circulate in your kitchen, and is required under Part F of Building Regulations.