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SUPERSIMMER
The front right element of your cooktop/hob is fitted with a unique simmer control.
This allows the element to be turned down to a very low and even power setting
(25 watts compared with 60 watts on other elements). These lower settings are
ideal for melting chocolate and butter, cooking rice and delicate sauces, and for
simmering soups and stews. It can also be used as a ‘warm zone’ for keeping
cooked food hot.
The supersimmer element is just as powerful (1200 W) in the top heat range as the
same size standard element allowing food to be browned, seared, sautéed or boiled
before simmering all on the same element.
WHY SIMMER?
Simmering occurs at around 85
o
C (185
o
F), when bubbles rise occasionally and
gently to the surface of the cooking liquid. This is below boiling point, and above
the minimum temperature needed to keep food safe from bacteria. Simmering is the
key to delicious soups, tender stews and delicate sauces. Boiling soup for extended
periods of time will cause a breakdown in texture and a loss of many key nutrients.
Vigorous heating can cause curdling or burning of sauces and meat boiled in a stew
becomes tough. Cooking at simmering temperatures converts connective tissue in
less expensive cuts of meat to soluble protein, making it deliciously tender, while
the cooking liquids become rich and full of flavour.
Pan size and quality will affect the transfer of heat so you may need to experiment
to find the exact power setting for your food. Heavy, flat based metal pans 15cm in
diameter or below will give best results with the supersimmer element.
Inspiration
For the ultimate hot chocolate drink, warm 60g dark chocolate with 2 tablespoons water in
a small pan, stirring until the chocolate has melted. Gradually whisk in 500 ml milk and
continue heating at moderate heat until piping hot, but not boiling. Pour into 2 or 3 mugs
and top with marshmallows.
‘Warm Zone’
Gentle simmering
Rapid simmering
Moderate heat
Boiling and sautéing
Maximum heat Minimum heat
599087A_CE901M_UGuide_NZ 20/9/02 8:01 Page 9