Induction Hob: Choosing The Right Pans For Your Cooktop

Induction hobs are a type of stovetop that uses electricity to heat the base of a pan directly through a magnetic circuit. Unlike traditional gas and electric hobs, induction hobs do not heat the hob surface, only the cookware, making them more energy-efficient. To cook on an induction hob, you need to use pans with magnetic properties, such as cast iron and stainless steel. Pans made of non-magnetic materials like aluminium, brass, and copper won't work unless they have a ferrous base. In this article, we will discuss the science behind induction cooking, the benefits of using an induction hob, and provide a comprehensive guide to choosing the right pans for your induction stovetop.

Pans with magnetic properties

Induction hobs use magnetic conduction to generate heat. Pans made of aluminium, brass, and copper won't work on induction hobs unless they are designed with a ferrous base. This is because induction hobs require magnetic pans or pan materials to generate heat.

Cast iron and stainless steel are examples of pans with magnetic properties that are compatible with induction hobs. Enamelled steel cookware and specialist stainless steel cookware are also suitable for induction hobs.

To identify if a pan has magnetic properties, you can use the magnet test. Simply place a magnet, such as a fridge magnet, on the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to the pan, it has magnetic properties and will work on an induction hob.

It is important to note that not all stainless steel pans are compatible with induction hobs. Some stainless steel pans may be made with non-magnetic materials, such as a high nickel content, which will block the magnetic field. Therefore, it is always a good idea to perform the magnet test before using a pan on an induction hob.

Ferrous metals

To test whether your pans are made from a ferrous metal, you can use a magnet – if it sticks to the bottom of the pan, it will work on an induction hob. The magnet must really stick on; if there is only a weak pull, or none at all, the pan won't work. You can also look for the induction symbol on the base of the pan, which looks like a coil.

Cast iron is famous for its non-stick cooking capabilities when "seasoned" properly. However, cast iron is heavy and slow to heat up and cool down, so it is not ideal for cooking that requires fast temperature changes.

While stainless steel pans are a great choice for induction hobs, it's important to shop for stainless steel manufactured for induction hobs. Stainless steel pans with a high nickel content, for example, will block the magnetic field.

Enamelled steel cookware

To test if your enamelled steel cookware is compatible with an induction hob, try the magnet test. Simply hold a magnet to the bottom of the cookware. If the magnet clings to the underside, it will work on an induction hob. If there is no pull on the magnet, the cookware won't generate heat on an induction hob. Most manufacturers will also label their products as induction-compatible, so look out for the induction symbol, which often looks like a horizontal zig-zag or a coil.

It's worth noting that while enamelled steel cookware is generally safe to use on induction hobs, some users have reported issues with thin enamelled steel cookware melting onto the induction top. This is more common with very thin and inexpensive enamelled steel cookware with ripply bases, such as Graniteware. However, heavier-duty and thicker enamelled cast iron cookware, such as Asta or LeCreuset, are less likely to have this issue.

When using enamelled steel cookware on an induction hob, it's important to be mindful of the heat settings. Induction hobs offer more precise temperature control, and cookware can become hot very quickly. It's recommended to prepare your ingredients before heating the pan and to start with a low heat setting, adjusting as necessary.

Overall, enamelled steel cookware can be a great choice for induction hobs, providing an energy-efficient, safe, and responsive cooking experience. Just be sure to check the compatibility of your cookware with the magnet test or by looking for the induction symbol.

Stainless steel pans

Induction hobs are a type of stovetop that uses electricity to heat the base of a pan directly through a magnetic circuit. This makes them more energy-efficient than gas or electric hobs, as they only heat the cookware and not the surface of the hob.

When it comes to choosing the right pans for an induction hob, it's important to select those made with ferromagnetic materials, such as iron or a layer with magnetic properties. This is because induction hobs require ferrous metal pans for effective heat transfer.

Stainless steel cookware is generally regarded as induction-compatible. However, it's important to note that not all stainless steel pans will work on an induction hob. The key factor is the grade of stainless steel used. For a stainless steel pan to be induction-compatible, its base must be made with a magnetic grade of stainless steel, such as stainless steel 432 or ferritic stainless steel, which both possess a magnetic field.

On the other hand, stainless steel pans with a high nickel content will not work on induction hobs as the nickel blocks the magnetic field. Additionally, some cheaper stainless steel pans may have a "sandwiched" base, where a stainless steel plate is attached to the bottom of the pan to make it induction-compatible. While these pans will technically work, they may not heat evenly, resulting in hot or cold spots.

To test if your stainless steel pan is induction-compatible, you can perform a simple magnet test. Hold a magnet, such as a fridge magnet, to the bottom of the pan. If the magnet sticks or is repelled, the pan is made to work with induction stovetops. If the magnet does not stick or has a weak reaction, the pan is not induction-compatible.

Most manufacturers will also indicate if their cookware is induction-compatible by including a symbol on the bottom that resembles a coil or a horizontal zig-zag, or by noting compatibility on the packaging.

Cast iron

When purchasing cast iron pans for your induction hob, it is important to ensure that the base of the pan is flat. A traditional wok, for example, is not as effective on an induction hob due to its curved base. A flat-based wok or skillet will provide better results.

Additionally, cast iron pans can be heavy, so it is crucial to handle them with care to avoid scratching or damaging the cooking surface of your induction hob.

To identify if your cast iron pan is induction-compatible, you can perform the magnet test. Simply hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan, and if it clings strongly, the pan will work on an induction hob. You can also look for the induction symbol on the base of the pan, which resembles a small coil of wire with four loops.

Frequently asked questions