What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. best hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, however they use electricity. They also work with almost every cookware type however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit, or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which translates to a crag, a hill or a crag.
Folklore has it that hobs are faery spirit who perform household chores. They are usually benevolent, but can become a nuisance when offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
A type of cooking appliance is another popular use. A hob is a metal plate used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface of a hob will usually be flat and features several cooking elements, such as 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 word "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was probably acquired in the same time frame as the female counterpart hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were famous fairy tales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing pranks, despite their benign nature. They can also be very destructive when provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put a cart on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they are also used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled by a single button and can be paired together with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some stoves can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Some models also have advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and heat up only when in contact with cookware that is compatible that reduces the chance of burns. The power is also deactivated instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce the cost of energy for households 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 have a bridge feature that joins two induction zones to create one large one controlled by a single control. This provides greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook using larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings on a stove can be adjusted using simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to use and read. A lot of hobs have timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs, a Booster function that only uses maximum power for the required duration, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and save energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crannies of conventional gas burners, which can collect dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with modern, sleek lines that blend with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs that have automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob for signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to detect when cookware isn't in contact it. This helps protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features include heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you select will also impact on your budget as well as the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame by using natural gas. This heats pans and pots. Many home cooks choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a wide range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more susceptible to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be aware of the flame's presence and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements that are placed beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. They are affordable and provide a excellent heat distribution for flat-based products. They are slower to heat and cool than other hobs and aren't easy to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, however they have a filament bulb which heats 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 have physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to quicker heating and an uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates, making them easier to clean. However, they are not as efficient at simmering and may not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you do not take the proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can damage or even break cookware, which could present a fire hazard. The majority of hobs have safety features that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob and its components, as well as protecting the other kitchen surfaces.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use even though some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as powerful and effective as those produced by mobile phone, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with specific cookware types So it's essential to verify that your cookware and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. Holding a magnet close to the pan's base is a quick method to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could cause damage to your stove or cause fire.
Keep children and others away from the cooking area when it is in use. The surface may get extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves when you touch the handles of a metal pan as they can also be extremely hot. It is also crucial to turn your oven off straight after use as they may remain hot for a time. If a fire occurs and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 911 and leave your house as quickly as possible.