How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
Whether you're looking for an oven or hob that is new, we've got a range of dimensions and features to match your kitchen.
Generally simple to use and hard-wearing, solid plate hobs have sealed metal plates that cook your cookware. They're ideal for flat-based products and can be economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are used in kitchens around the world to roast and bake foods. Generally they are fueled by electricity or gas with models that use bottle gas that are sold in certain stores however ovens can also make use of other fuels, such as wood or charcoal. In many 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 hob comes with burners that can be turned on and off and off, while an oven has an enclosure where food is heated in the middle.
The first ovens were huge brick and mud structures that had a fire for heating food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other dishes since they were capable of keeping the heat at an even temperature and were able to be shared between family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were dangerous because of the open flame and smoke as well as the consumption of fuel (wood) and was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.
The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney that shut off the fire to lessen the amount of smoke and intensity, and make it easier to control. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were typically found in households that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen with a chimney, as well as having more than one fireplace and oven.
In the late 19th century, European ovens were a common feature in kitchens. It was partly due to the fact that the oven was an essential requirement. It was safer and more efficient for people to cook their food over an open fire or in the cauldron. It is believed that the growth and use of the oven coincided with changes in cooking styles and recipes, leading to a greater emphasis on casseroles and meat.
It is worth noting that in certain recipes, like those of Nigella, she will recommend cooking a pot "on the hob" however this could be misleading because a hob is actually a British word for stove top. If you're unfamiliar with British terminology and terminology, the North American equivalent would be the term cooktop or range.
Functions
Oven functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed settings that regulate the way in which the oven's heating elements as well as the fan work based on the recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more simple and more efficient, while preserving flavour and texture.
Ovens come with a traditional mode that cooks food from the top to the bottom. There is also a fan-assisted option that uses an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, allowing for more uniform and faster heating. There are many different types of ovens and hobs to choose from, and it's important to be aware of the different features to determine which one is best suited to your requirements.
The fan-powered function of the oven is ideal to cook a range of food items. It warms up the oven more evenly than standard ovens and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It is especially useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pie that require a quick crisp, clean finish. The Fan-Assisted setting is identified by a zigzag at top and straight lines at the bottom of the square, and can help you save up to 40% of cooking time.
Certain ovens have grilling features that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with that from the top, giving your food a delicious charcoal. It's ideal for kebabs of meat or vegetables and can be identified with zigzags or straight lines like Fan-Assisted. This is typically used on the bottom rack of the oven, so make careful to observe your oven's temperature settings to avoid overcooking.
Other oven functions include slow cooking, proofing bread and pastries and much more. These are usually preprogrammed and create a controlled, warm environment to help rise dough and develop flavours.
Some ovens come with steam functions that are perfect for making healthy and nutritious food. It offers a moderate amount of moisture to your food, which helps preserve tenderness and adds a delicate, rich taste to your poultry, vegetables baked goods and even custards. It's as simple as pouring water into the reservoir in your oven and turning it on, with some models even automatically adjusting the amount of steam to depend on the temperature that is selected.
Types
There are many types of ovens and hobs that are available with a range of styles, from traditional gas models to modern electric models. Selecting one that is suitable for your preferences and style can make a huge difference in how easy it is to cook at home. It is worthwhile to think about features such as self-cleaning and smart capabilities too.
Gas ovens are a popular option and are suitable for the majority of kitchens. They usually have burners with rings and a grate on which pans rest on which emits heat, making them easy to use. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and offer precise temperature control. This can help lower your energy bills. They may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and may be more difficult to clean, due to residue.
Electric hobs are available in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be a little more expensive to purchase, but they are considered to be energy efficient since the hob only generates heat when you place a pan over it. They are also safe for children and are able to heat relatively quickly. However, they may not always cook evenly and can be slow to cool down.
Plate hobs, which are also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric on flat surfaces. They sit under your kitchen cabinets. They have a sleek modern look that looks sleek and match the majority of kitchens. They can be difficult to keep clean, as they contain multiple cooking zones, which can cause uneven heating. They can also leave burn marks on the surface if not cleaned properly.
The most common model is the built-in single oven. They can be placed under a hob or at eye-level in a built-in cabinet. They are usually large enough to accommodate a big meal and come in various sizes, so make sure to take into consideration your family's size when choosing an oven. They can also be found with additional options like an oven with a grill or a steam function.
Installation
It might be worthwhile hiring an electrician to set up the new oven for you or replace an old one. This will ensure the electrical circuit is correctly installed and the new appliance is safe for use. A licensed electrician can adhere to local regulations to ensure your installation is compliant with all safety codes.
Before beginning the process of fitting your new electric oven and hob, you'll need all the required equipment and tools available. This includes wire nuts, an electric tape, screwdriver and a tester for electrical circuits and conduit. Make sure you check the electrical supply at home to make sure it can handle an electric hob or oven.
To put in a new oven and hob first, you need to take them out of the old ones. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance in place and then remove them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the area where the new one is installed must be clear of obstructions. The junction box must be installed, with the conduit connected to the electrical supply. This should be done according to the manufacturer's instructions and any relevant local regulations.
Once the electrical connections are established after which the oven and hob can be lifted into place. The fitter will utilize the clips that came with the hob to secure it and ensure it is flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is functioning properly.
If you're installing a gas oven and hob it's a good idea hire a professional for the job. Gas installation isn't quite as easy as plugging in a brand new electric oven. It requires the services of a CORGI registered engineer to connect the pipework. It's also recommended to purchase a cooker hood installed in case you don't have one, as this will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.