The AGA cooker is renowned for its versatility, reliability, and ability to produce high-quality meals with minimal fuss. One of its standout features is the AGA hotplate, an indispensable tool for any home cook. Whether you’re an experienced AGA user or new to the world of cast-iron cooking, mastering the use of the hotplate can elevate your cooking game.
Here, we’ll explore how to effectively use the AGA hotplate for cooking, reheating, keeping food warm, and more. With a few simple tips and techniques, you’ll be making the most of this iconic kitchen feature in no time.
Understanding the AGA Hotplates
The AGA typically comes with two hotplates: the boiling plate and the simmering plate. Both are made of cast iron and provide a consistent, radiant heat that’s perfect for various cooking techniques.
- Boiling Plate: This is the hotter of the two and is ideal for rapid cooking methods like boiling, frying, or searing. It’s perfect for dishes that require high heat, such as stir-fries or boiling pasta.
- Simmering Plate: As the name suggests, this hotplate is slightly cooler and is perfect for simmering, gentle frying, slow cooking, and reheating food. You can also use it to keep dishes warm without overcooking them.
Both hotplates retain heat beautifully and provide a consistent temperature, making it easy to control the cooking process once you become familiar with them.
Cooking on the AGA Hotplate
Cooking on the AGA hotplate is a unique experience, and once you master it, you’ll appreciate its versatility. Here are some tips for making the most out of the boiling and simmering plates:
1. Boiling on the Boiling Plate
The boiling plate is perfect for tasks that require high heat. When using it for boiling water, soups, or sauces, make sure to place your pan directly onto the plate. Thanks to the AGA’s excellent heat retention, water comes to a boil quickly, and foods are cooked efficiently.
However, one of the key tips is to bring liquid to a boil on the boiling plate and then transfer it to the simmering plate to maintain a gentle cook. This method helps to avoid overcooking and keeps the nutrients intact in your food.
2. Frying and Searing
Whether you’re frying eggs, making pancakes, or searing meat, the boiling plate’s heat is ideal for getting that crispy texture and rich caramelisation. Use cast iron or heavy-bottomed pans for even heat distribution, and avoid non-stick pans as the heat from the boiling plate can sometimes damage them.
3. Simmering and Slow Cooking
The simmering plate excels in gentle cooking techniques. Whether you’re slow-cooking a stew, melting chocolate, or making a delicate sauce, the simmering plate offers the perfect level of heat. It’s also ideal for reheating leftovers without drying them out or burning them.
For slow-cooked dishes like casseroles, start by browning your ingredients on the boiling plate, then transfer the pot to the simmering plate for a long, slow cook. You can also use the simmering plate to gently toast bread, warm tortillas, or soften vegetables.
4. Griddle Cooking
You can turn your AGA hotplate into a makeshift griddle by placing a flat griddle pan or baking stone on the boiling plate. This is perfect for making pancakes, flatbreads, or grilling vegetables. Just be sure to preheat your pan on the plate for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Reheating on the AGA Hotplate
The simmering plate is ideal for reheating leftovers. Because of its gentle, even heat, food can be warmed through without becoming dry or rubbery. Place your food in a saucepan or a shallow dish and cover it with a lid or foil to retain moisture. Stir occasionally, and your food will be hot and ready to serve in just a few minutes.
If you’re reheating bread or baked goods, place them on the simmering plate for a few minutes to refresh them. It works wonderfully for rolls, croissants, or slices of pizza.
Keeping Food Warm
The simmering plate doubles as a warming surface for keeping cooked food at serving temperature. Simply place your covered pan or dish on the simmering plate to hold it at a perfect serving temperature. This is particularly useful for large family gatherings when you need to keep multiple dishes warm at the same time.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the best things about the AGA hotplate is its cast-iron construction, which makes it incredibly durable. However, like all cast iron, it requires a little maintenance to keep it in top shape.
- Daily Care: Wipe the hotplate with a damp cloth followed by a dry one to remove any food debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the surface.
- Deep Cleaning: Occasionally, you can give the hotplate a deeper clean by scrubbing it with a wire brush or fine-grade steel wool. Make sure to re-season it afterward by rubbing a little vegetable oil into the surface while it’s warm.
By understanding the basics of the AGA hotplate and following these tips, you can make the most of this versatile kitchen feature. From rapid boiling to slow simmering, the AGA hotplate makes cooking an enjoyable and efficient process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use non-stick pans on the AGA hotplate?
It’s best to avoid non-stick pans on the AGA hotplate, especially the boiling plate, as the high heat can damage the coating. Opt for cast iron or heavy-bottomed stainless steel pans for best results.
How do I know when the hotplate is ready for cooking?
The AGA hotplates are always ready to go. However, for certain recipes like pancakes or searing meat, you might want to preheat your pan on the hotplate for a few minutes to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I use the AGA hotplate for baking?
Yes! You can use a griddle pan or baking stone to bake items like flatbreads, pancakes, or even pizzas on the boiling plate. It’s a great way to make use of the hotplate’s high heat.
How can I keep food from burning on the hotplate?
For gentle cooking, transfer your food to the simmering plate once it’s reached the desired temperature. Stir frequently and cover with a lid to retain moisture.