Here's A Little-Known Fact Regarding Hobs
Here's A Little-Known Fact Regarding Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is akin to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit, or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag, a hill or a"crag.
Folklore has it that hobs are faery spirit who perform household chores. They are usually kind, but can become annoying if they are offended. One such hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. A hob is a metallic plate that is used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to be used as a quoits target.
The first recorded usage of the term "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the female form hobgoblin. It is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing Pranks, despite their innocent nature. They can also be destructive if provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example could even place a cart on its roof. This was a huge inconvenience to the farmer. Moreover they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly found in the UK however, they can be used in other countries, too. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled with one button and can be paired together with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth making them more convenient to use. These features are attracting consumers. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like the lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with cookware that is compatible. This minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features can be particularly useful in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with a "Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you are required to leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions that connects two cooking zones using induction into a single zone that is controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted using simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to read and use. Many also offer timers, pre-sets for typical cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power only for the necessary amount of time, and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to cut down on simmering times and conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also does not have the nooks or crannies that can collect dirt in time, as do traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add sophistication and style to the modern kitchen. They are sleek and have modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs with automatic shut-off features. They check the surface of the hob for signs of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine when cookware is not in contact with the hob to protect against electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of different kinds of hob that are available, so it is important to think about which one is right for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob that you select will also affect your budget - both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. Many home cooks opt for gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a broad range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open, and make sure the stove is properly protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs, another option in the kitchen make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, but they feature a filament bulb which heats the surface. They are more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs, however, they aren't as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some have touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in quicker heating and an evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed which makes them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and are not suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that harm your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be the main cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to break or shatter, which could pose the risk of fire. Many hobs come with safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMFs are not as strong and powerful as those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with specific cookware types It is therefore essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. A simple method to test this is to put a magnet at the base of the pan. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware can damage your hob or cause fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other persons away from the hob while it is in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. It is recommended to wear oven gloves when touching metal pan handles since they are extremely hot. It is important to shut off your hob immediately after use, as it can remain hot for a more info period of time. If you notice a fire then follow the fire department's advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as soon as you can.