Everything We Want To Know About Induction Cooking
We admit there is a gene deep inside all of us that makes our hearts skip a beat when we see a killer gas range. Certainly a machine like this would make us all be a top chef contender right? Perhaps, but what about induction cooking?
The Low Down On Induction Cooking
Induction cooking provides faster heating, improved thermal efficiency, and more consistent heating than cooking by thermal conduction, with precise control similar to gas. The induction elements commonly have heating performance comparable to a commercial gas burner, but is significantly more energy-efficient. The surface of the cooker is heated only by the pot and so does not usually reach a hazardous temperature. Because the temperature of the cooking surface matches that of the pot, this permits precise control of the cooking temperature. The control system shuts down the element if a pot is not present or not large enough. Induction cookers are easy to clean because the cooking surface is flat and smooth and does not get hot enough to make spilled food burn and stick.-Wikipedia
Induction Range Configurations
Currently there are three options for residential kitchens when considering an induction cooking surface. Above you will see two freestanding ranges. On the left, a unit without an elevated back, is called a slide in range. In the center photo is a less expensive design that features the controls in the back section. To the right is an induction cooktop that is size specific to both cabinets and counter tops. All options offer the benefits of induction cooking at various price points.
Does An Induction Unit Look Different Than An Electric Unit?
When comparing smooth, glass top electric units the answer is no. Above are photos of a manufacturers standard and induction slide in ranges. The induction range is approximately $1200 more than this standard electric. However, those of us who are seasoned vets of induction vs gas, say this is a moderate investment for huge returns. All the features of cooking with gas, with less energy and nearly zero clean up. Most induction ranges also come with convection ovens and warming drawers which add to the value of these units.
Induction Cooktops
For kitchens that have configurations of wall ovens and a separate cook top in a counter top, induction can be a wonderful upgrade from an electric unit. Ones like this one above, offer bridge cooking (to the left) for large pans. In homes where natural gas is not available, or in existing homes where moving a gas line is not in the budget, considering induction cooking is a win all around.
Budget Friendly Induction Cooking
75% of homes in America have the combo below of a freestanding range with microwave above. Amazon wins the price on the price of this induction range with microwave combo. Who knew they had an appliance source?! This Frigidaire combo is under $1200 with free shipping and less than a week delivery.
Induction Range/Microwave Combo Link Here
Friday Favorites!
Portable Induction Cooking
Your’s truly is a big proponent of induction cooking. After multiple remodels of snaking natural gas to our kitchens (even under a sidewalk once!) I eased into induction cooking with a portable, table top unit similar to the one below. These units are inexpensive and a great way to try a new method of cooking before spending thousands. These portable units are not as powerful as a full size range, however, I have loaned out my single burner unit to others to try in my quest to convert everyone. The single burner size units are used by chefs all over the world in test kitchens and even as their choice over gas by some.
Portable Induction Cooktop Link Here
The Ultimate Induction Cooking Unit
AGA has this 48″w multiple oven, induction cooktop available in multiple colors. Hands down, this would be my dream range in a deconstructed kitchen. Oh, and I’d still keep my single burner counter unit to take with us when we travel to the amazing rentals we stay in.
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Bon Weekend!
I read about these a few years ago and must admit my interest was piqued. I wish I could come borrow your portable and test it out, but surely I could order one?
Yes you can order one…hot the link under the portable unit and you should also be able to navigate to a single burner within the site. Bed Bath & Beyond has then too!