This Story Behind Hobs Will Haunt You Forever!
This Story Behind Hobs Will Haunt You Forever!
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital part of every kitchen. Modern ones are typically made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they use electricity. They also work with almost all cookware brands, but induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit or a ding. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or a hill.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally kind, but can be a nuisance if they are offended. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
Another common usage of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some instances the hob may be replaced by flat stones to permit it to function as a target for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the word "hob" is from the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely acquired at the same time as the female form hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance hobs are known to play amusing pranks on people. They can also be very destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example, was able put a cart onto its roof. This was a huge issue for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK but they can also be used in other countries too. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled by the push of an electronic button, and can be utilized alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These types of features are enticed buyers to buy these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and are heated only when in contact with cookware compatible that reduces the chance of burns. The power is also deactivated immediately after the cookware has left the cooking area. These safety features are particularly useful in homes where children or guests could be present.
Induction hobs use less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This can help reduce household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions that joins two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook using larger or unusual-sized pans and pots.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. Many also offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power for the amount of time, and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crevices of traditional gas burners which can accumulate dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern designs that match other appliances and décor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for indications of unusual temperature or explosive substances, then automatically stopping the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is crucial for gas hobs since it reduces the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to know when the cookware isn't in contact it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hob that are available, so it is important to think about the one that is suitable for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will impact your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame with natural gas. They heat pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for oven and hob them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Additionally, they are unaffected by power interruptions and work with a variety of cooking vessels. However gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more vulnerable to accidental flare-ups which is why you must be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure the stove is adequately secured with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen option that makes use of electric elements under the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and provide excellent heat distribution for flat-based objects. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, but they have a filament bulb which heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some are equipped with touchscreen controls while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as efficient at simmering and are not suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you do not take the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or anyone else. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be a major cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to become damaged or even shatter, which can pose an fire risk. Most hobs have safety systems that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that the heat output is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob as well as its components, while preventing fire hazards to surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMFs are not as powerful and strong as those produced by mobile phones, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with specific types of cookware, so it's important to verify that your cookware and pans are induction-ready before using them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a simple method to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could damage your hob or even cause a fire.
Keep children and others away from the hob when it is being used. The surface may become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when touching handles on metal pans because they can be extremely hot. Also, it is crucial to turn your oven off immediately after use since they can stay hot for a long time. If you experience a fire then follow the fire department's advice - to call 999 and leave your home as soon as you can.