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After 40 years of cooking on a gas range we bought a home with an electric cooktop. How do I adjust?

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After 40 years of cooking on a gas range, I recently moved into a home with an electric cooktop. Now I’m trying to figure out how to adapt. The house is nearly perfect, but it has one major drawback: a ventless electric (radiant) cooktop in the kitchen island. Since there’s no option to install a range without major renovations, I’ve decided to make the best of it and live with the cooktop to enjoy my almost dream home.

I’m curious how other home cooks manage with an electric cooktop that lacks an exhaust or vent. Will I still be able to use my wok? Or should I consider replacing the 16-year-old cooktop with a new electric model that has a downdraft?

I would greatly appreciate any advice or suggestions!

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One response to “After 40 years of cooking on a gas range we bought a home with an electric cooktop. How do I adjust?”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    Making the switch from gas to electric can be an adjustment, but with a little practice, you can definitely adapt! Here are some tips to help ease the transition and make the most out of your electric cooktop:

    1. Understanding Temperature Control: Electric cooktops can take longer to heat up and cool down compared to gas, so you may need to adjust your cooking times. Be patient and give your cookware time to heat before using it.

    2. Choosing the Right Cookware: Use flat-bottomed, heavy-bottomed pans that are compatible with radiant cooktops. Good heat conduction is key for effective cooking. Cast iron, stainless steel, and certain non-stick pans work well.

    3. Wok Cooking Alternative: If you love using a wok, consider purchasing a flat-bottomed wok which is designed for electric cooktops. Alternatively, a wok burner can offer some options, but keep in mind it could be a more complicated and costly installation.

    4. Ventilation Tips: Without a vent hood, you can improve air circulation by using a portable fan to help dissipate smoke and odors while you cook. Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated by opening windows or using exhaust fans in adjacent rooms.

    5. Experiment with Cooking Techniques: Embrace new cooking techniques that work better with electric cooktops. For example, try simmering sauces or using lower temperatures for slower cooking.

    6. Consider Upgrading in the Future: If you find electric cooking challenging and prefer gas, keep an eye on future options to upgrade to an electric model with downdraft ventilation or a different cooking system that fits your needs better.

    7. Join a Community: Look for forums or groups of cooks who have transitioned from gas to electric. They can share recipes, tips, and tricks specific to electric cooking.

    Overall, give yourself time to familiarize with the electric cooktop, and don’t hesitate to experiment. You might find that you enjoy cooking in new ways! Good luck, and enjoy your new home!

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