What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass, which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. Electric hobs are more affordable than gas ones, however they require electricity. They also work with almost any type of cookware, but induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole or a ding. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to a crag or a hill.
Folklore suggests that hobs are faery spirit who do household chores. They are usually kind, however they can be a nuisance if offended. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another popular use. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced with an elongated stone that allows it to serve as a target for quoits.
The first documented usage of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was probably acquired in the same period as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put carts on its roof, causing an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Furthermore, ovens hobs can be difficult to work with due to their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly found in the UK however, they can be found in other countries too. They are available in many varieties, including gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled with a single button and can be paired together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Certain models also come with advanced safety features such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their quick heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and heat up only when they are in contact with compatible cookware that reduces the chance of burning. The power is shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features can be particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests could be present.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps lower the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for convenience when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge functions that join two induction zones into one large one controlled by a single control. This allows for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the ability to connect multiple zones.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are easy to read and use. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs, a Booster function that only utilizes maximum power for the specified time, and a soft "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crevices of traditional gas burners which can collect dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add sophistication and style to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, contemporary lines to complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are employed in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They monitor the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to detect the cookware isn't in contact with it. This can prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs available. It is important to select the best one for your kitchen. Some common features include: heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob that you choose will also impact your budget - both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame with natural gas. This heats pans and pots. Many home cooks choose gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the open flame, and make sure the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles.
oven hob , another option for cooking make use of electric elements on a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They are affordable and provide a excellent heat distribution for flat-based objects. They are more difficult to heat and cool than other types of hobs and can be difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric hobs however, they aren't as fast to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some are equipped with touch-based controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and might not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen but they could be dangerous in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can cause fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to you or anyone else. That's why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to break or shatter, which could pose an fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems employ power modulation to ensure that heat output remains constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features help protect the hob and its components, as well as protecting the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are considered safe to use even though some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF aren't as strong as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they emit is non-ionising.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. oven with hob is important to ensure that your cookware and pots are induction-ready before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a simple way to test. If the pan stays, it is compatible with an induction cooker. The wrong type of cookware can damage your hob or cause a fire.
It is also important to ensure that children and other people stay away from the stove when it is being used, as the surface can become extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves to avoid touching the metal pan handles since they are extremely hot. It is also essential to switch your hob off immediately after use because they can remain hot for a long time. If you experience a fire then follow the fire department's instructions - call 999 and leave your home as fast as you can.