The Ultimate Guide To Ovens
Types of Ovens and Hobs
The kind of cooker hob you pick can have a huge impact on how much energy you use. There are a variety of models to suit your cooking preferences and needs:
Plate hobs are four rings that appear like hot plates, but are actually an electric coil underneath. They are quick to heat up, and they provide good heat distribution to flat-based pans.
Range cookers
A range cooker is a freestanding oven and hob that typically has multiple oven cavities and various burners, including typically a grill. A popular alternative to stoves and ovens that are built-in They come in various sizes and stylish designs that match various kitchen designs.
Typically, available in electric or gas, the type you choose will depend on your cooking needs and budget. In general dual fuel range cookers are the most popular because they provide the best of both worlds: gas hobs that warm up quickly and are simple to control, as well as efficient electric ovens that have more functions and settings.
Many range cookers also feature an attractive storage drawer below the hob, which is ideal to keep baking trays and roasting dishes away from view. This drawer is also a great place to store pans, pots and stoneware, allowing you to make space in your cupboards. You can also find cookers with an integral sink to assist you in juggling food preparation whilst cooking and make cleaning up a breeze.
If you're catering to large numbers or host dinner parties, check for a range cooktop with a pyrolytic self-cleaning oven. This feature is extremely simple to use and makes use of high temperatures to break down leftover food residue. Then, it burns off at the surface, leaving a light ash that is easily cleaned away.
Some models also have an integrated grill that is perfect to spice up oven-cooked meals and giving them the extra crunch. They are also great for frying up quick snacks such as cheese on toast or crumpets.
The majority of range cookers come with an impressive wok burner which can be a huge benefit for those who enjoy Asian inspired cuisine. You can also find cookers with separate hotplates as well as griddles for searing meat as well as cooking vegetables. Based on the model you choose, it may also have additional features like an oven that is programmable with multi-function settings including base heating only as well as fan assisted rotisserie settings.
Look for a stainless steel range cooker if you want a stylish, modern design in your kitchen that won't take up much space. They're available in an array of striking colors so you can match it to your worktops, cabinet doors and accessories. Some range cookers have built-in vents that help eliminate cooking odours, resulting in an airy and clean kitchen.
Built-in ovens
A built-in oven (also known as a wall oven) is designed to be integrated into the kitchen cabinetry or wall, resulting in a seamless and unique look. They are usually placed at eye level so you can see your food preparation and avoid any accidents.
A high-quality, energy-efficient built-in oven can last for 15 years or more. Their lifespan varies based on how frequently they are used and how well they are maintained. To ensure that your oven operates efficiently it is recommended to speak with an expert technician for routine inspections and maintenance.
As well as offering a modern, sleek aesthetic, built-in ovens come with a variety of cooking functions, from steam to convection. These advanced features can elevate your kitchen to the next level, making your cooking easier and more convenient.
Built-in ovens can be combined with a hob that is integrated to create the perfect kitchen layout for your home. If you're in search of an electric or gas hob StovesAreUs has a wide selection of top-quality hobs that will fit your kitchen's layout and design.
A double integrated oven, sometimes referred to as a built-in dual cooker, offers great flexibility for your kitchen. They can be placed on the eye level or under counters and include the full-size multifunction or fan over a smaller conventional oven with a grill element. There are many double ovens available with additional storage space such as baking trays and roasting tins or catalytic liners which absorb grease, making cleaning your oven easier.
A modern, high-end and fashionable built-in oven can bring value to your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers should you decide to sell it in the future. The decision to buy an appliance that is new for your kitchen is ultimately down to personal preference budget, as well as the kitchen layout.
All-in-one cookers
If you want an appliance for your kitchen that can do everything and more, look no further than an all-in-one cookware. Also known as multi-cookers these versatile models combine the functions of a slow cooker rice cooker, pressure cooker air fryer, sous vide machine and even a food processor into a neat and tidy package.
They are great for making rich soups and risottos since they stir in the same way that they heat, helping to create that creamy texture. They can also be used to steam vegetables or fish. They are also ideal for making healthy yoghurt and smoothies. They aren't as efficient in browning meats as slow cookers or pressure cooker.
The top all-in-one cookers have a range of settings that allow you to tailor the cooking process to your particular ingredients and cooking method. This makes them a great option for those who want to cook with less hands. The most affordable models are typically equipped with basic features however, there are more expensive models with lots of extras.
All-in-one cookware is typically a freestanding appliance, so they require more space than an oven and hob. The models have two large ovens, with a combined capacity of 60 litres. They also have four or six hob rings and plates.
A new generation of all in one cookers has entered the market, offering a variety of additional functionality. For instance, the Thermomix combines food processor and slow cooker functions into one. This German-made appliance is able to chop, cook, and mix and comes with a range of automatic programs, including making frostings from sugar and cooking sous vide as well as emulsifying foods like bearnaise sauce. It's a smart investment however, at more than $1500, it's not cheap.
The majority of people who purchase an all-in-one cooker opt for a gas version as it can save money on energy bills. It heats up faster than electric models, which can be costly to run. They are compatible with all pans and some will include a griddle option too.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs, as their name suggests, make use of electromagnetic induction technology to heat cookware directly and cook food. This minimises the transfer of energy to the cooking surface, reducing the energy consumed, and making the appliances safe to use with no residual heat. They also have a sleek and modern design that is well-suited with modern kitchens.
However, the technology is not without its disadvantages. Induction hobs aren't as easy to clean like gas models and require cookware that is compatible. The magnetic field emits low-frequency electromagnetic radiation in the kilohertz range which can cause harm to the human body. This level can be reduced by an absolute distance of 5-10 centimeters and by ensuring the appropriate pan is placed on a cooking area that is active.
There are several types of induction hobs available from different manufacturers, with varying capacities and features. The most basic model offers four separate rings that can be operated separately, and the power levels can be adjusted with a simple control system. To select the desired setting simply touch the mark that represents the ring you want to use. You can then either press the + or buttons or move your finger over the appropriate "power bar".
Induction hobs often have a bridging area that allows you to connect two or more rings to create an even larger cooking surface. This is a great solution when your larger pans aren't able to fit into individual rings. Some induction hobs have the "wok" setting that gives additional heating power for woks. Other models come with an "free-standing" option that can be used to free up space on an even, flat surface.
Some models have an LCD display that shows the current power level of each ring, while others have the option of a dial or rotary control that requires you to twist and push your fingers to adjust the settings. You can choose between various power outputs per ring. Some hobs also come with an automatic restart function which will bring the appliance back to its original cooking mode.