Cut the cost of cooking

Peas

Energy-wise, gas hobs are preferable because they're easier to control. Ceramic rings are more energy-efficient than conventional, but induction beats all other hobs - temperature control is instant, and heat goes straight into the pan, making this method twice as fast as a ceramic hob and 40 per cent faster than gas. Bad news, however, if you like to stir-fry, as woks don't work well on these hobs.
Always put lids on pans when cooking - this speeds up the cooking process by up to 6 per cent.
One-pot dishes and stacked steamers allow you to cook meals on one ring - a great energy saver.
Veg chopped into small pieces cooks quicker.
Consider a pressure cooker - this gets the job done in about a quarter of the time, and smart new pans have given this time-honoured method a makeover.
Match your pans to the size of the rings on the hob, to stop heat escaping on either side.
Boil water in a kettle instead of a pan - it's quicker and more economical.

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