Elsa Bastyan

How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

We offer a variety of sizes, styles and features that can be adapted to any kitchen.

Generally simple to use and hard-wearing solid plate hobs are sealed metal plates that cook your cookware. These are good for flat-based products and can be cost-effective to operate.

Origins

Ovens are kitchen appliances used to roast and bake food in households around the world. They are typically powered by gas or electricity with gas bottles that are sold in certain stores, although ovens may also make use of other fuels, such as wood or charcoal. In many homes, an oven is surrounded with a hob where food can be cooked. A hob is a type of burner that can be turned on or off. An oven is a sealed enclosure that cooks food in the middle.

The first ovens hobs were huge brick and mud structures that contained fire to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other dishes since they were quite adept at keeping the heat at an even temperature, and were able to be shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major disadvantages: they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke as well as the consumption of fuel (wood) and was difficult to regulate the cooking process and heat.

A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney which shut off the fire to decrease the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to manage. They were very popular during the 16th and 17th centuries, and were often found in household that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen area with a chimney, and having more than one oven and fireplace.

By the middle of the 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a standard feature in kitchens at home. This was largely due to the fact that the oven was an essential requirement. It was safer and more efficient for people to cook on an open fire or in the cauldron. It is believed that the advent of the oven coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes that led to an increased emphasis on casseroles and meat.

It is worth noting that in some recipes, like those from Nigella she may suggest cooking a pot "on the hob" however this could be misleading since hob is actually an actual British term for stove top. The North American equivalent is a cooktop or range, so it can be confusing if you're unfamiliar with the British terminology.

Functions

The oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are preprogrammed options that control the oven's heating element as well as fan according to your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food simpler and more efficient, while preserving the taste and texture.

Ovens have 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 an even and faster heating. There are a variety of options for oven and hob functions. It is important to understand the differences to determine the best ovens and hobs uk one for you.

A fan-assisted oven function is perfect for cooking a variety food items. It warms up the oven more evenly than conventional ovens and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It's particularly helpful for dishes that require an immediate, crisp finish like pizzas or pies. The Fan-Assisted setting features a zigzag at the top and a line at the bottom. It can help save up to 40 percent of cooking time.

Certain ovens have grilling features that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with the top, giving your meals a delicious char. This is the perfect mode for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be marked by straight lines and zigzag lines, similar to Fan-Assisted. This mode is usually utilized on the lower rack of the oven, so be careful to observe the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.

There are other oven functions like proofing of pastry and bread, slow cooking, and other things. These are often preprogrammed and provide a controlled warm environment that helps rise dough and develop flavors.

Some ovens have a steam function that is ideal for creating healthy and nutritious meals. It imparts a delicate, rich flavour to baked products such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. Using this function is as easy as pouring water into the reservoir in your oven, then turning it on, with some models automatically altering the amount of steam based on the temperature that is selected.

Types

There are a variety of ovens and hobs on the market. They vary from traditional gas models to contemporary electric ones. Choosing one that meets your needs and style can make a big difference in how easy it is to cook in your home. Think about features like self-cleaning or smart capabilities.

Gas ovens are a very popular option and are suitable for all kitchens. They typically come with burners that have rings and a grate that pans rest on. They emit heat, making them simple to use. Gas hobs are also energy-efficient and provide precise temperature control. This could help you reduce your utility bill. However, they will take longer to heat than electric ones and are difficult to clean if they are left with residues.

Electric hobs come in a variety of different styles, including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs may be a little more expensive to purchase but are considered to be energy efficient since the hob generates heat only when you place a pot over it. They are also safe for children and can heat up relatively quickly. They are also slow to cool off and do not warm up evenly.

Plate hobs are a classic of the kitchen, featuring an array of cooking zones, all on an even surface that is placed underneath your kitchen appliances. They provide a stylish modern look that will look sleek and match the majority of kitchens. They are difficult to clean because they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If not cleaned properly they may leave burn marks.

The most common type is the built-in single-oven. They can be placed on top of a stove, or in a built-in cabinet. When choosing an oven, take into consideration the size of your family. They can be big enough to accommodate a huge meal and are available in various sizes. They are also available with additional options such as 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 that the electrical circuit is properly set up and that your new cooker is safe to use. An electrician who is certified will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that your installation is in compliance with all relevant safety regulations.

Before beginning the process of fitting your new electric oven and hob you'll need to have all the necessary supplies and tools available. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. It's also important to check the electrical supply in your home to ensure it can withstand the demands of a brand new electric oven and hob.

The first step in the process of installing a new hob and oven is to remove any old appliances. Locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance, and then remove them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the space where the new one is installed must be free of any obstructions. The junction box needs to be installed, with the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is essential to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer and any local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are established and the oven or hob is connected, it can then be lowered in the desired position. The fitter will use the clips that came with the hob to fix it and ensure that it's flush with your work surface. Finally, the fitter will test the hob and ensure that it's operating correctly.

It is best hob uk to employ an expert to install a gas stove and oven. Gas installation is not as simple as plugging in an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer must connect the pipes. It's also a good idea to get a cooker hood installed in case you don't have one as it will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.