Gas Hob Used in Nigellissima

Our answer

The hob used in Nigella's latest TV series Nigellissima is made by Smeg. The closest in style to Nigella's hob are the 70cm "Classic" (SE7OSX-5) and the 70cm "Cucina" (SE7O6SX3).

There are many types of hob available and space and power type are likely to be the most important factors when choosing a hob. A standard hob with 4 burners is usually 60cm/24 inches wide. If you do have the space then a wider 70cm hob with a large central burner (a "wok burner") is very useful as the central burner will often have a higher heat output and is useful for fast heating and larger pans.

Gas is quite a popular option as it is easy to control the heat by adjusting the flame. However if gas isn't an option then electric rings, ceramic or induction hobs are also options.

Ceramic and induction hobs have smooth tops so are relatively easy to clean and have a very streamlined look. Traditional ceramic hobs have electric elements which heat up the ceramic surface and then heat the pan. It is worth looking for hobs that have at least one ring with a dual zone which allows just the inner part of the ring to be used. The hob should have a warning light indicating that the hob is hot, even if there is no glowing element to be seen.

Induction hobs use an electromagnetic current which passes into the pan and creates a current inside the pan, heating the contents. So sometimes you will hear a faint buzzing noise when using the hob. Induction hobs tend to be more expensive than traditional ceramic ones but heat the contents of the pan more quickly and the surface of the hob remains cool. But they do require iron pans so may mean that your pans need to be replaced. If a magnet sticks to the pan then it is suitable for an induction hob.

For both ceramic and induction hobs it is worth considering models with a safety lock if you are likely to have children around.