How to Use Induction Cooktop

An induction cooker heats up pots and pans very efficiently. Instead of using open flames or electric coils, induction cookers use magnetic energy to induce heat directly in the cookware. The glass surface stays much cooler than a traditional electric or gas stove. In the section below, we'll discuss how to use an induction cooker.

What is an Induction Cooktop?

An induction cooktop is a high-tech, modern way of cooking that uses electromagnetic energy to heat pans rapidly. Under the smooth glass surface are copper wires carrying electricity that create a magnetic field. When you set a compatible iron or steel pan on one of the induction zones, it excites electrons in the cookware to start generating heat.

The pan heats up quickly, but the solid cooktop surface stays touchable. The key to induction cooking is having the right cookware made of ferrous metals that magnets can penetrate. Keep reading to learn how to start cooking with induction.

How to Use Induction Compatible Cookware?

Induction cooktops have plenty of benefits, but to get the most out of them, you'll need induction compatible cookware. It should have a magnetic base, like stainless steel or cast iron. Things like aluminum, copper, and glass won’t work unless they have a magnetic layer at the bottom. A simple way to check if your cookware is induction-friendly? Just hold a magnet to the bottom—if it sticks, you're good to go!

You can also check out our blog on induction compatible cookware here.

How do you use an Induction Stove?

These are the steps on how to use induction cooker:

Step 1: Turn on the induction cooktop

The first step in how to use an induction cooker is to locate the power button on your induction cooker and press it to turn it on. Most models have indicator lights that turn on or start flashing to indicate that the cooktop surface is powered on.

Step 2: Place the cookware over the cooktop

Make sure to use pots and pans that are induction-compatible. They should be made of ferrous metals like cast iron, stainless steel, or enameled steel. Set your induction cookware directly on top of one of the cooking zones or elements on the glass surface.

Step 3: Turn on the surface cooking area

Touch the button or slider control for your cookware's individual cooking zone. This energizes that element to begin heating the pan. An indicator light nearby will show that the area is activated.

Step 4: Select the cooking functions

Use your cooktop's touchpad or digital interface to set the pan's power level or target temperature. Clockwise increases heat, counter-clockwise lowers it. Most models have low, medium, and high quick settings or numbered power stages from which you can select.

Step 5: Turn off the cooktop

When finished cooking, touch the button for that cooking zone again to stop the heating process. Remove your cookware. Press the main power button to shut off the induction cooker surface when completely done.

Step 6: Temperature and Power Settings

The temperature control allows selecting a target pan temperature. The cooktop automatically adjusts the magnetic induction power to hold this temperature. Power settings manually control the strength of the magnetic field for different heating needs.

How to use Induction Compatible Cookware?

To make the most of your induction stove, you’ll want to use cookware designed for it. Look for pots and pans labeled as induction-compatible; these have a magnetic base that interacts with the cooktop’s magnetic fields. This means the cooktop heats the pan directly, making your cooking faster and more even. Simply place the pan on the cooktop, set your temperature, and you’re all set! Just be sure your cookware isn’t warped or damaged, as that can affect performance. Cast iron and stainless steel are among the most common types of induction-compatible cookware, so you’re likely to have some on hand already.

Cleaning & Maintenance of Induction Cooktop

Here are these maintenance tips to follow for cleaning an induction cooktop:

● Use ceramic and glass cooktop cleaning sprays to keep your induction cooktop shiny and fingerprint-free. When cool, apply cleaner to the surface and wipe clean with a paper towel.

● If food boils over or melts onto the surface, use a plastic scraper while the cooktop is still warm to gently lift food residue without scratching the glass. Wipe away with a cooktop cleaner.

● Avoid using abrasive scouring pads and powders, which can scratch and damage the cooktop. If needed, use soft cloth scrubbers.

● Check the manuals for your induction cooktop and pans. Some brands may recommend special cleaning procedures to keep both working well over time.

● Clean spills immediately before residue bakes on to prevent mineral deposits from water or food. Use cooktop covers when the induction cooktop is not in use.

● Run cookware across the cooking zones while cleaning to detect any grit which could scratch the glass. Remove any debris immediately.

Following these simple methods will keep an induction cooktop safe, hygienic and looking like new while getting the most out of this modern cooking appliance.

You can also check out our blog on kitchen hygiene for more information.

Additional Hacks and Tips to Use an Induction Stove

Here are some additional handy tips for using an induction stove effectively:

● Get to know your induction cooktop's power levels and settings. More powerful does not always mean hotter or faster cooking. Find the optimal temperature for tasks like simmering sauces or pan frying.

● Not all cookware works with induction. Stainless steel, cast iron, and enameled pans conduct heat best. The cooktop should include an indicator light to show if your cookware is compatible.

● Lift pans, but don't slide them across the glass surface to avoid scratches. Wipe up any debris under cookware, too. Tiny crumbs or grit can damage the cooktop over time.

● An induction cooker boils faster than gas or electric ranges. Don't leave it unattended - safety should always be your priority! Set timers and adjust settings to avoid boiling over or burning.

● Ventilate well! Although the cooktop surface doesn't get hot, induction burners heat cookware intensely. Proper kitchen ventilation is a must.

With some care and practice, an induction cooktop lets you boil, simmer, stir fry or sauté with incredible speed, efficiency, and control.

Conclusion

An induction cooker offers a modern, efficient, and safe way to cook delicious meals. By following the simple steps to operate the cooktop and caring for it properly, you can experience faster heating, more precise temperature control, and easier cleaning than traditional ranges. Mastering induction cooking does take some practice, but the rewards of great-tasting food and an immaculate kitchen make it well worth learning. We hope that you’ve understood how to use an induction cooker and clean it in the right way.

FAQs

Q.1. How do you use an induction cooktop for the first time?

If you're new to induction cooking, read the instruction manual carefully to learn what the controls do. Check that your pots and pans work with induction before putting them on the cooktop. Turn on the power, choose a temperature or heat level as needed, and start cooking!

Q.2. How do you cook food in an induction cooker?

You can cook on an induction hob almost the same way as a regular gas or electric stove. Remember that the cooktop doesn't heat up - the pans get hot very fast. Use heavy-based pans made of materials like iron, steel, or enamel that work with induction.

Q.3. What are the steps for induction cooking?

The key steps are - to switch the induction cooker on, place suitable pans on the cooking zone, turn that zone on, set the heat or temperature, add ingredients to the pans, stir or flip food while cooking, and then switch off the zone when done. Be sure to use the right induction-safe pans.

Q.4. How do I activate an induction cooktop?

To start cooking on an induction zone, first, turn the whole cooktop on using the main power button. Next, turn on the specific zone you want by touching its button or sliding its control. When that zone lights up, the induction will quickly start heating the pan you've placed there.

Q.5. How do I use my choice of induction cooker?

You can use any brand of induction cooker fairly easily. First, read the instruction manual fully. Then, turn on the induction cooker's power, place suitable induction-compatible cookware on the cooking zone, select the needed heat settings, add food ingredients to the cookware, and turn off the zones when each food item is cooked. Refer to the cooker's manual if you need guidance.