How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

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

Solid plate hobs are simple to use and durable. They are made of metal with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They're good for flat-based items and can be economical to run.

Origins

Ovens are utilized in kitchens across the globe to roast and bake foods. They are typically powered by electricity or gas, with gas bottles that are sold in certain stores however ovens can also make use of other fuels, like charcoal or wood. In many homes the oven is usually surrounded by a stove where food can be cooked. The difference between a stove and an oven is that a hob comes with burners that can be switched off and on, whereas an oven has an enclosure in which food is heated in the middle.

The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures that contained fire to heat food. They were used for baking bread, cooking meat, and for cooking other foods since they were able to hold heat and maintained a constant temperature. They were also able to be shared between family members. However, open pits and furnaces came with three major disadvantages: they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke as well as the consumption of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.

A solution was found with ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that shut off the fire to reduce its intensity and smoke and make it easier to control. These were common during the 16th and early 17th centuries. They were found in wealthy homes with separate kitchens with a chimney, and more than one fireplace and oven.

By the mid-19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. It was partly due to the fact that the oven was a necessity. It was more secure and efficient for people to cook on an open fire or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the development and use of ovens coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, which led to a greater focus on meat and casseroles.

In certain recipes, such as those made by Nigella she may suggest placing the pan "on the hob". However, this can be misleading, because a hob in British English is a stovetop. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, and it can be confusing if you're not familiar with British terminology.

Functions

The oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are preprogrammed options which control the oven's heating element and fan according to your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food easier and more efficient, 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. They also have a fan-assisted option that makes use of a built-in fan to circulate air throughout the oven for better even and faster heating. There are many options for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the differences to decide which one is right for you.

A fan-assisted oven function is ideal for cooking a variety foods. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a traditional oven, and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It is particularly useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pies that require a quick, crisp finish. The Fan-Assisted setting comes with a zigzag on top and a line at the bottom. It can cut down up to 40% of cooking time.

Certain ovens come with grilling features that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven to give your food the perfect char. This is the perfect mode for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and is marked with straight lines and zigzag lines, similar to Fan-Assisted. This is typically used on the lower rack of the oven, so be certain to be aware of the temperature settings of your oven to avoid overcooking.

Other oven functions include slow cooking making bread and pastries, proofing them, and other things. They are typically programmed to create a warm, controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough. It also helps your food develop amazing flavors.

Some ovens have steam functions that are ideal for making healthy and nutritious meals. It offers a moderate amount of moisture to your food, which preserves tenderness and adds a delicate, rich taste to poultry, vegetables baked goods and even custards. Using this function is as easy as pouring water into the reservoir in your oven and turning it on, with some models even automatically adjusting the amount of steam depending on the temperature that is selected.

Types

There are many ovens and hobs that are available on the market. These range from traditional gas models to contemporary electric models. Choosing one that meets your needs and style can make a huge difference to how it is easy to cook in your home. Think about features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.

Gas ovens are a popular choice and can be found in most kitchens. They are easy to use as they have rings around the burners and an grate on which pans rest that emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy-efficient and have precise temperature control. This can help you reduce your utility bill. However, they may take longer to preheat than electric hobs and are difficult to clean if left with residues.

Electric hobs are available in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be a little more expensive, but they are energy efficient because the hob only heats up when you place a pot on it. They also stay cool to the touch, making them safer for children, and are quick to warm up. They are also slow to cool down and don't get hot enough evenly.

Plate hobs are another stalwart of the kitchen, with an array of cooking zones that are placed on a flat surface that sits beneath your kitchen units. They offer a stylish modern design that look sleek and complement most kitchens. They are difficult to clean because they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If not properly cleaned they may leave burn marks.

Single ovens with built-in ovens are the most popular type of oven and these can be fitted either underneath a hob or at eye level in an integrated unit. When choosing an oven, consider the size of your family. They can be big enough to accommodate a large meal and are available in various sizes. There are also ovens with extra features such as a steam or grill function.

Installation

If you're planning to install a new oven or replacing one you have, it may be worth getting an electrician to take care of the installation for you. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is correctly set up and that your new appliance is safe to use. A licensed electrician can adhere to local regulations to make sure that your installation is compliant with all safety regulations.

Before beginning the process of installing your new electric oven and hob, you'll need to have all the required supplies and Culinary Tools in your kitchen. These include wire nuts, an electric tape, screwdriver as well as an electrical circuit tester and conduit. It is also essential to examine the electrical power supply in your home and make sure it can withstand the demands of a new electric oven and hob.

To install a new oven and hob, you must first remove the old ones. Locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and take them off them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the space where the new one will be installed should be clean and free of any obstructions. Then a junction box needs to be mounted and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. This must be done according to the manufacturer's instructions and any relevant local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are established after which the oven or hob can then be lowered in place. The fitter will then use the clips that came with the hob to fix it in place and ensure that it is flush with the worktop. Finally, the fitter will test the hob to ensure that it's operating correctly.

If you're planning to install an oven or hob that is gas-powered, it's best hob uk to employ a professional for the job. Gas installation isn't as straightforward as plugging in an electric oven and requires the services of a CORGI registered engineer to connect the pipes. It's also an excellent idea to get a cooker hood installed in the event that you don't have one as it will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.