We have a range of styles, sizes and features that can be adapted to any kitchen.
Generally simple to use and durable solid plate hobs are sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. They're great for flat-based dishes and are economical to run.
Origins
Ovens are kitchen appliances that are used to bake and roast food in homes across the world. They are typically powered by electricity or gas with gas bottles that are available in certain markets but ovens can also use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In many homes, an oven is surrounded by a kitchen hob, which is where food can be cooked. A hob is a burner that can be turned on and off. An oven is a sealed enclosure which heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures that contained fire in order to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and other dishes as they were capable of controlling the heat to keep an even temperature and could be easily shared amongst family members. The open pits and ovens had three major drawbacks they were risky because of the smoke and flames that could be seen from them as well as the use of a lot of fuel (wood), they were difficult to control the heat and cooking.
A solution was found with ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney which shut off the fire to decrease its intensity and smoke and make it easier to control. These were common during the 16th and early 17th centuries. They were common in homes of the wealthy with separate kitchens with a chimney as well as more than one oven and fireplace.
In the middle of the 19th century, European ovens were a popular feature in kitchens. This was due to the fact that the oven became a necessity, as it was much more secure and efficient to cook food in an oven than over an open flame or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of ovens coincided with changes in cooking styles and recipes, leading to a greater emphasis on meat and casseroles.
In certain recipes, like those by Nigella she may suggest cooking a pan "on the hob". However it could be confusing, because a hob in British English refers to a stovetop. If you're unfamiliar with British terminology and terminology, the North American equivalent would be a range or cooktop.
Functions
Oven functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options that control how the oven's heating elements and the fan operate depending on your recipe. They are designed to allow you to cook food more efficiently and effectively, while preserving the flavor and texture.
The majority of ovens have a traditional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food items. There is also a fan-assisted mode that uses an integrated fan to circulate the air around the oven, which allows for a more even and quicker heating. There are many different types of ovens and hobs to pick from, and it's crucial to be aware of the different features to determine the ones that are best for your requirements.
A fan-assisted oven function is ideal for cooking a variety food items. It heats up the oven more evenly than standard ovens and is perfect for baking, grilling and roasting. It's particularly helpful for dishes that require quick, crisp and fast-drying like pizza or pie. The Fan-Assisted setting features a zigzag on top and a line on the bottom. It can save up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens come with grilling functions that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with that from the top, giving your meals an amazing charcoal. It's great for meat or vegetable kebabs, and can be marked with the zigzag and straight lines, like Fan-Assisted. This is usually found on the lower shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.
There are additional oven functions like proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, proofing, and more. They are typically programmed to create a warm and controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough. It also helps your food develop amazing flavor.
There are ovens that come with Steam functions that are ideal for making healthy, nutritious food. It provides a low level of moisture to your food, which helps preserve the tenderness of the food and imparts a delicate, rich flavour to vegetables, poultry, baked products as well as custards. Utilizing this feature is as simple as pouring water into the reservoir inside 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 kinds of ovens and hobs available that are available, ranging from traditional gas to modern electric models. It is crucial to select the oven and hob that is suitable for your needs. Consider features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.
Gas ovens are a popular option and work well in the majority of kitchens. They are easy to use as they come with rings on the burners and the grate that pans sit on which emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and provide precise temperature control. This could help you reduce your utility bill. They can take longer to heat up than electric hobs and can be more difficult to clean with dirt.
Electric hobs are available in a variety of different designs that include ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are somewhat more expensive to purchase however they are considered to be energy efficient because the hob only generates heat when you place a pan over it. They are also safe for children and can heat up relatively quickly. They can also be slow to cool off and don't get hot enough evenly.
Plate hobs, which are an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric on flat surfaces. They sit under the cabinets in your kitchen. They offer a stylish modern look that look elegant and fit in with the majority of kitchens. They can be difficult to keep clean as they have multiple cooking zones that have uneven heating and can leave burn marks on the surface if not properly cleaned.
Built-in single ovens are the most commonly used type of oven, and can be placed either under a stove or above the eye level in an integrated unit. When selecting an oven, consider the size of your family. They are usually large enough to accommodate a large meal and are available in various sizes. You can also find them with additional features like grill or steam features.
InstallationIt may be worth hiring an electrician to set up an oven that is new for you, or replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is installed and the new oven is safe to use. A qualified electrician can follow local regulations and ensure that the installation is in accordance with all applicable safety regulations.
Before you begin the installation process of your new electric oven and hob, you'll need to have all the necessary supplies and tools in your kitchen. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. Examine the electrical supply at home to make sure it can handle an electric hob or oven.
The first step of installing a new hob and oven is to take out any old appliances. Find the bolts or screws holding the old appliance, and then remove them with care. After the old appliance is removed from the area it must be cleaned and free of obstructions. Then, a junction box will need to be mounted and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. This should be done in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer and any applicable local regulations.
Once electrical connections are established after which the oven or hob can be moved into the desired position. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to fix it to the wall and ensure that it is flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to make sure it is operating properly.
It is best to employ an expert to install a gas hob and oven. Gas installation isn't as easy as plugging in an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer is required to connect the pipes. Installing a cooker hood is also an option if you do not already have one. This will allow air to circulate in your kitchen, and is required under Part F of Building Regulations.
