There is a revolution taking place in Indian kitchens. Induction cooking is no longer a novelty but a genuine kitchen essential. Induction is quicker than gas stoves, safer than traditional stoves, and far more intelligent than most other kitchen appliances. But to use an induction cooker to its fullest potential, a little knowledge is required.
Whether you are purchasing an induction cooker for the first time or have just unboxed one and are not sure what to do next, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about induction cooking. We have also provided a list of some of the best induction cookers available for purchase on Lotus Electronics.
How Does Induction Cooking Work?
You might think an induction cooker is similar to an electric stove. You think that a glowing coil is present beneath a glass surface. But it is not. Induction is different. Once you know how induction cooking actually works, you will use it far better.
A copper coil is present inside an induction cooker. When the induction is turned on, an alternating electrical current is sent through the copper coil. This current generates a magnetic field around the copper coil. When a ferrous pan is placed on an induction cooker, the magnetic field induces an electric current within the pan. The pan acts as a heating element. The induction cooker remains cool to the touch. When you place your hand next to a vessel that is being heated on an induction cooker, you will not feel any heat.
That’s why induction is so efficient- 90% of the energy is transferred directly into your food, compared to only 55-65% for gas. No heat is wasted heating your kitchen appliances. Just fast, accurate cooking, exactly where and when you want it.
However, your pots and pans must be magnetic. Stainless steel and iron are perfect for induction. Aluminium and copper pans are unlikely to work unless they have a magnetic base. Check the packaging of your pan or try sticking a fridge magnet to the bottom. If it sticks, it will work for induction.
How to Use an Induction Cooker: A Step-by-Step Start
Step 1: Position it on a flat and stable surface. Make sure there is a space of at least 10-15 cm around the induction cooker for ventilation. The internal fan needs air to work efficiently.
Step 2: Connect it to a proper earthed electrical socket. Induction cookers are high-power appliances and, if possible, should not be connected via an extension cord or power strip.
Step 3: Position your pots and pans on the induction cooker. The induction will not work without a pan, and the pan should not be too small for the induction. Most induction cookers require a pan diameter of at least 12 cm.
Step 4: Select the induction mode or power level. Most induction cookers have preset options such as Milk, Fry, Dosa, Rice, and Roti- very useful for Indian cuisine. Medium heat is good for everyday dal and sabzi. High heat is good for boiling water and searing food.
Step 5: Always use pot holders. The cooktop itself remains cool, but the pot becomes extremely hot and can transfer that heat to the glass. The area immediately surrounding the pot can get warm, too.
Step 6: Clean after every use. Allow it to cool, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth. A soft scraper can be used to clean spills. Never use abrasive cleaners on the glass.
Tips and Tricks to Get More from Your Induction Cooker
Preheat, but only briefly: Induction cookers heat extremely quickly. So, a brief 30 to 60 seconds of preheating should be more than enough. No need to wait like in an oven.
Flat-bottomed pans only: The induction cooktop works only with pans that have a flat bottom. Warped or rounded bottoms do not make good contact with the induction cooktop, resulting in uneven cooking. Buy induction-friendly cookware.
Master the power, not the temp: The power levels, not the temperature, control your induction cooker. Think of the power levels like the control knob. For low and steady simmer, power levels 2 to 3 work well. For rolling boils and quick stir-fries, power levels 7-9 work well. For large pots of water, maximum power works well.
Use the timer: it's an extremely useful feature. Set it, and forget. The induction cooker will automatically turn off when the time runs out. No more overcooked, dry dal.
For rotis and parathas, use low power; high power can scorch them. Medium-low power works well for even browning.
Keep the surface dry: If there is water between the cooktop and the pan base, it can cause noise. So, dry the surface quickly before putting your pan on the cooktop.
Don’t ignore the child lock: Most induction cookers have one. It is better to turn it on before use for safety purposes.
More wattage does not mean cooking at full power. If you have a 2000-watt cooker, cooking at 60% power uses the same amount of energy as cooking at full power on a 1200-watt cooker. The benefit is having headroom for future use, should you need it.
4 Induction Cookers Worth Exploring at Lotus Electronics
Lotus Electronics offers a wide range of induction cookers from brands that have earned consumers' trust.
1. Philips Induction Cooker
Philips is a brand known for its reliable kitchen appliances. Their induction cookers have Indian cooking presets, are easy to use, and have good build quality.
2. Havells Induction Cooktop
Havells has shown impressive electrical engineering prowess in designing induction cookers. Their cookers have precise temperature control, have glass tops that can withstand heavy use, and look great, too.
3. Bajaj Induction Cooker
Another brand that has gained the trust of Indian consumers is Bajaj. Their induction cookers offer great value for money, with multiple power levels, auto-off features, and good build quality. They are mostly designed for Indian cooking, making them a good choice for those who cook Indian food frequently.
Check out our range of kitchen appliances at www.lotuselectronics.com or visit a store near you to find induction cookers in different wattages, brands, and price ranges.
Happy Cooking!
