What is a Hob?
Hob is a controlled exocytosis-related protein. It has also been discovered to regulate insulin-producing cells in Drosophila. It is a part of the secretory apparatus, and is required to function properly in secretory cells.
In the British kitchen hobs are the equivalent of a cooktop, or stove top. Nigella frequently suggests leaving the pot "on the hob." The word is used in the same way in North America.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs heat pans and pots with magnetism instead of direct heating. Underneath the cooktop surface sit coils that an alternating electrical current flows through, and when a ferrromagnetic pan is placed on the cooktop's surface, this creates a magnetic field that produces electricity to heat the pan. This also means that the cooktop is cool to the touch, thereby saving energy compared with gas and electric models.
Another advantage is that induction hobs are less dangerous than gas hobs of the traditional variety and have no open flames that could cause burns to your fingers or cookware. They are ideal for student residences and iQ Student Accommodation flats where security is a top priority. The smooth glass-ceramic surface of hob will not get hot, and is easy to clean using a damp rag.
The drawback to induction is that you require specific pans that are compatible. You will need pans with a flat, even thick base made from ferrous metals such as cast iron or steel. To determine if the pans are induction-compatible, you should apply a magnet to the base. If the magnet is stuck to the pan, it's appropriate for your induction cooker.
Ceramic hobs are also popular, as they have a modern appearance and are available in many colours. They heat quickly, but they tend to consume more energy than induction stoves since they heat the entire surface of the glass-ceramic. They are easy to keep clean as well, since the smooth cooktop surface can be cleaned with a cloth and most of them have integrated dishwasher-safe lids for extra convenience.
If you want the most efficient of both, opt for a premium induction cooker like this one from Hotpoint that comes with a TFT-like display that can show the position of your cookware and a control menu that'll allow you to change the power settings. It comes with four auto-cooking options (boiling melting, boiling and slow cooking) along with an extra-quick boost function. It comes with lockable controls to prevent accidental button pressing and has an indicator for residual heat and auto switch-off in the event that you forget to turn off the hob.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or propane to heat their ovens and burners. This allows for a quicker cooking time and better control of temperature. This makes it ideal for boiling, frying and sauteing as well as for other cooking techniques. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to operate than electric ones, even though they may not be as efficient as electric hobs.
In addition the gas hob's heat source is not dependent on electricity, so it will continue to function even during power outages, albeit at a lower speed. The heat generated by the burners is also restricted to the pans they are in contact with, reducing the chance of fire. However, it's important to keep all flammable substances away from the stove and to follow safe cooking methods to prevent accidental fires.
A modern gas hob is a blend of traditional gas burners and some electrical components that control the burner's ignition and flame output as well as safety features. Most models use an electric ignition system that emits either an electric spark or a pilot flame to ignite the burner. The control knobs allow you to adjust the intensity of the flame as well as the output of heat. Some also have a timer that lets you to set a specific cooking duration.
Gas hobs are usually less expensive to purchase in the beginning than models with induction, however the cost of running them will be based on the gas prices in your area. Certain gas hobs can be used with the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is cheaper than natural gas.
Another disadvantage of a gas-powered hob is that it requires more care than electric ones. The burner grates are prone to attract greasy spills, and you'll have to wipe down the flat, rimless cooking surface more frequently to avoid food residue getting trapped in crevices. Fortunately, some brands, like FUJIOH has made maintenance simpler by using stainless steel or porcelain-coated cast iron hob grates that can be taken off to clean. Additionally, their flat rimless design eliminates the necessity for awkwardly positioned utensils and pot holders that can collect debris and increase the likelihood of spills.
Electric hobs
Making use of electric coils to generate heat under the cooking zone, electric hobs are quick to heat and easy to clean after use. Many models have residual heat indicators that inform you which areas were used recently and are too hot to clean or touch. This is particularly useful in homes with children. Certain models also come with overflow protection that detects when the pan is boiling and shuts off the stove to stop spillage.
Induction hobs look sleek and stylish. They work by transferring a current of electric current through copper coils to create a magnetic field that is heated by the bottoms of the cookware that is compatible with induction. Induction hobs are quicker at boiling than gas hobs, and provide precise temperature control and energy efficiency.
However, these kinds of cooktops are more expensive than traditional gas models and should be installed by a professional. Many come with a flat glass cooktops that have a modern design and include a range of options, including child locks as well as timers, auto shut off and built-in sensors for food preparation.
A popular choice with users electric ceramic hobs give the best of both worlds by providing a smooth and easy-to-clean surface that is resistant to burns, scratches and staining. These models are also available in a range of colors to match your kitchen design and many have pre-installed trims and panels to give a seamless finish.
Similar to induction hobs they require regular maintenance, with the burner caps and grates needing to be removed regularly and then soaked in warm water for cleaning before reassembling. They also are susceptible to staining due to spills of liquid and are a bit slower than other hobs to heat up, but they are extremely efficient in energy use.
The most delicious hobs
Hobs are an essential kitchen appliance that can transform any culinary endeavor into a musical symphony. We have a variety of hobs that will meet any budget and requirement.
The most stylish hobs are sleek, durable and easy to clean. They have a range of features that will allow you to cook without difficulty. The most popular options include ceramic, induction and gas.
Ceramic hobs are energy-efficient and easy to clean because they employ electric heating elements beneath glass surfaces. They are quick to heat up and regulate the temperature precisely which makes them ideal for all types of cookware. Certain models have residual heat indicators which warn you if the surface of the glass remains hot.
Induction hobs operate by creating magnetic fields between the element and the pan which allows heat to be generated only when it is needed. They are much faster to warm up than gas or sealed plate hobs. Ovens & Hobs have a high efficiency, and no waste of heat from the other parts of the hob.
Gas hobs are a more traditional option that is preferred by professional chefs. They are quick to heat up and provide instant heat control, making them ideal for a variety of cooking techniques. They are also affordable and can be used in all pans. However, they can be harder to clean because the burners and grates have nooks and crannies where dirt can get.
Solid plate hobs are durable and durable, offering an excellent heat distribution for everyday use. They are usually cheaper than gas and induction hobs and are great if you are limited on space. Some are able to use bottles of LPG, and they are suitable for all types of pans. However, they will take a little longer to warm up and cool down, and aren't ideal for simmering. A lot of modern hobs that we offer come with child locks and a range of safety features that are enhanced for added peace of mind.