The Best Hobs Awards: The Most, Worst, And Most Bizarre Things We've Seen
The Best Hobs Awards: The Most, Worst, And Most Bizarre Things We've Seen
Blog Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and an efficient minute minder. It has a smooth, smooth surface that is easy to clean and is easy to use by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one minor issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be uneven, but it is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating and the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels according to the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor,' which helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified with an arrow or cross to show which side of the coil is beneath and there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to the boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) still reigns supreme when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check each burner's status at a glance. This is very useful for safety. It's much harder to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to keep on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for a hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can blend into any interior style.
As a result of their efficiency and convenience, many homeowners opt for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can consider this alternative. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to buy kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These stylish and stylish hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath, which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for a complicated cleaning. Additionally, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they are behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs are a good budget alternative, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for dynamic chefs who website like to multitask. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the performance of the model however, it will also aid you in locating the right one for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob choose one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no buttons or dials that stick out. They are easier to clean with a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. For security, opt for one with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that will help prevent accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts through your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times to ensure that your food is ready at the time you require it. This reduces the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This will save space and is beneficial when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right breakers and cables to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.