Heat Up Fast, Serve Faster - The Speed Advantage of Induction Hobs and Griddles

With the growing demand for quick service and high quality, professional chefs and restaurant owners are constantly on the lookout for cutting-edge technology that can give them an edge. Enter induction hobs and griddles, a revolutionary cooking technology that promises to heat up fast and serve even faster. In this blog post, we will explore the many benefits of induction technology and how it can transform your kitchen operations.

Introduction to Induction Heating in Commercial Kitchens. 

Induction heating is rapidly gaining popularity in commercial kitchens worldwide, and here in New Zealand is no exception. Unlike traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooking uses electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly within the cookware. This method offers unparalleled speed and precision, making it an ideal choice for fast-paced food service environments.

In this post, we'll discuss the key advantages of induction technology, debunk common myths, and provide practical insights into its application in commercial kitchens.

Benefits of Induction Technology

Induction technology offers a range of compelling benefits that significantly enhance kitchen efficiency and effectiveness, particularly in time-critical environments.

Rapid Heating

One of the most significant advantages of induction hobs and griddles is their rapid heating capabilities. Since the heat is generated directly in the cookware, chefs can start cooking almost immediately. This drastically reduces wait times and enhances kitchen efficiency.

Precise Temperature Control

Induction technology allows for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring that food is cooked evenly and to perfection. This is especially crucial for dishes requiring meticulous temperature management, such as sauces, custards, and fine cuts of meat.

Energy Efficiency

Induction cooking is highly energy-efficient because it minimises heat loss to the surrounding environment. Studies indicate that induction hobs can be up to 70% more energy efficient than traditional gas or electric stoves. This translates to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint for your kitchen.

How Induction Hobs and Griddles Work

Induction hobs and griddles operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction, allowing chefs to harness energy with remarkable efficiency and effectiveness in their cooking processes. Let's take a closer look at the science behind it.

The Science Behind Induction Cooking

Induction cooking relies on electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the cookware. When an induction hob is activated, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the ferrous metal in the cookware. This interaction causes the metal molecules to vibrate rapidly, generating heat through friction.

Components of Induction Systems

Induction systems generally consist of three main components:

1. Induction Coil: Generates the electromagnetic field.
2. Cookware: Must be ferrous (iron or steel) to interact with the magnetic field.
3. Control Unit: Allows for precise temperature adjustments.

Practical Application in Commercial Kitchens

Induction hobs and griddles are versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, from boiling and frying to slow cooking and searing. Their rapid heating and cooling capabilities make them ideal for high-turnover environments like restaurants and catering services.

Overcoming Common Misconceptions and Concerns

When it comes to induction cooking, several misconceptions and concerns have emerged that may deter potential users from adopting this innovative technology in their kitchens. These misunderstandings often stem from a lack of familiarity with how induction systems operate and their potential limitations.

Common concerns include the belief that induction cooking is incompatible with certain cookware, that it poses safety risks, or that the initial investment is unaffordable.

By addressing these misconceptions and providing clarity on the actual benefits and capabilities of induction hobs and griddles, we hope we can help consumers make informed choices that enhance their cooking experience.

Myth 1: Induction Cooking is Too Complicated

Some chefs worry that induction cooking requires a steep learning curve. In reality, the controls are intuitive, and the technology is designed to be user-friendly.

Myth 2: Limited Cookware Options

While it's true that induction cooking requires ferrous cookware, many professional-grade pots and pans are already compatible. Brands often label their products as "induction-ready," making selection easier.

Myth 3: High Initial Costs

Though induction hobs and griddles can be more expensive upfront, the long-term savings in energy costs and increased efficiency often outweigh the initial investment.

Maintenance and Cost Considerations

Understanding the maintenance requirements and cost implications of induction cooking is essential for anyone considering this technology. Proper care and awareness of potential expenses can enhance the longevity and efficiency of induction hobs and griddles, ensuring a valuable investment in the kitchen.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Despite the higher initial cost, induction systems offer significant savings over time. Reduced energy consumption and faster cooking times contribute to lower operational costs.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Induction hobs and griddles have fewer moving parts compared to traditional stoves, resulting in lower maintenance needs. Regular cleaning and occasional servicing are usually sufficient to keep them running efficiently.

Durability and Longevity

High-quality induction appliances are built to last, offering years of reliable performance. Investing in reputable brands ensures durability and extended service life.

Future Trends in Induction Technology for Commercial Cooking

The future of induction technology in commercial kitchens looks promising, with continuous innovations poised to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and ease of use in professional cooking environments.

Integration with Smart Kitchens

The future of commercial cooking lies in smart technology. Induction hobs and griddles are increasingly being integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, allowing for remote monitoring and control.

Advancements in Cookware Compatibility

Ongoing research and development aim to expand the range of compatible cookware, making induction cooking even more accessible.

Enhanced Safety Features

Future models are likely to include advanced safety features such as automatic shut-off, child locks, and real-time temperature monitoring to further reduce risks.

Recommended Induction Hobs and Griddles at Hostservice

We have a range of induction hobs and griddles available at Hostservice, however, one of the standout models is the Lincat Four Zone Induction Hob. Lightweight and portable, the hob is versatile and can be equally beneficial for both kitchen and event catering.

Here’s what Lincat have to say about their induction hob:

“Embrace the power and energy-saving capabilities of the 2 x 3kW Lincat Four Zone Induction Hob. The energy efficient induction process delivers 90% efficiency compared to a typical gas hob at 50%, while ventilation and air conditioning costs can also be reduced as the heat is generated in the pan rather than the hob surface, so energy is focused where it’s needed and the cooking environment is cooler and more comfortable.” 

An alternative is the Opus 800 Four Zone Induction Hob. Similar to the Lincat, this hob is suitable for any busy commercial kitchen, large pubs and restaurants, hospitals, school canteens, care homes, and high volume production kitchens.

Here’s what the manufacturer has to say:

“Combining raw power with energy efficiency, the Opus 800 4 Zone Induction Hob delivers 90% efficiency compared to 55% with a solid electric hot plate and 50% with a gas hob.

“The hob features an automatic pan detection function which cuts power when no pan is present, preventing harm to users and saving energy at the same time. Built to last, it also comes with multiple internal cooling fans and overheat protection.”

One final alternative is the Norqi 80L Induction Bratt Pan. This is a highly efficient brattpan which is built using induction technology, which ensures very efficient heat. These brattpans can be widely used for cooking, such as boiling, poaching, frying, browning or keeping warm. The efficiency of the induction helps to ensure the fastest heating on the market, 0-200°C in 90 seconds, as well as efficient heat, even when the brattpan is loaded with larger quantities.

Here's what Norqi Induction brattpan users are saying:

"The best thing about the Norqi is being able to sear a whole piece of meat in butter like it is a frypan, cooking with butter is now more reliable."

"You can set creamed rice at 98’c and walk away knowing it is not going to burn or boil over and cause a mess."

"You can set a stew on and leave it for 3 hours knowing it won't stick, burn or need any stirring."

Conclusion

Induction cooking offers a range of benefits for commercial kitchens, from rapid heating and precise temperature control to energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. By adopting this cutting-edge technology, chefs and restaurant owners can significantly enhance kitchen operations, ensuring faster service, improved customer satisfaction, and lower operational costs.

Ready to revolutionise your kitchen? Explore the latest induction hobs and griddles available from Hostservice in New Zealand and experience the speed and efficiency of induction cooking firsthand.

FAQs

What is induction cooking?

Induction cooking uses electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly within the cookware, offering rapid heating and precise temperature control.

How does induction cooking enhance kitchen efficiency?

By heating cookware directly and minimising heat loss, induction cooking reduces wait times and energy consumption, making kitchen operations more efficient.

Is induction cooking safe?

Yes, induction hobs are generally safer than traditional gas stoves as there is no open flame or hot surface. This reduces the risk of burns and other accidents in the kitchen.

What types of cookware are compatible with induction hobs?

Cookware made of ferrous metals such as cast iron, stainless steel, and enamelled steel is compatible with induction hobs. Non-ferrous materials like glass, copper, and aluminium are not suitable unless they have a magnetic base.

What are the environmental benefits of induction cooking?

Induction cooking is more energy efficient, thus reducing the carbon footprint of commercial kitchens. Lower energy consumption translates to a more sustainable operation.

Do induction hobs require special maintenance?

Induction hobs generally require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional servicing are usually enough to ensure they operate efficiently for years.

How quickly do induction hobs heat up?

Induction hobs heat up almost instantly as the heat is generated directly within the cookware. This rapid heating capability significantly reduces cooking times.

Can induction cooking impact food quality?

Yes, the precise temperature control offered by induction hobs can enhance food quality by ensuring even cooking and reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking.

Explore induction technology today and transform your commercial kitchen with speed, efficiency, and precision.