For a single cooking zone that can be put away, a portable induction hob is a sensible choice if your saucepan is induction-compatible and the model offers a low manual setting. A radiant hot plate is worth considering if keeping a non-induction saucepan matters more; choose a built-in hob when you want a permanent, multi-zone installation. Whichever route you take, rice pudding needs a watched boil, a gentle simmer and regular stirring.
If you cook on a worktop and put the hob away afterwards, compare the appliance’s dimensions with both spaces. A low manual setting matters more to the simmering stage than maximum power alone; a timer can help you keep track of cooking, but not replace stirring.
If you want to keep your current saucepan, check its base before choosing induction. Electrolux UK Support says induction requires a magnetic base, and portable models also specify pan-size limits. A radiant hot plate is another route to consider if the pan is not induction-compatible.
If you need several cooking zones and are prepared to fit a hob into the worktop, check the exact model’s cut-out and electrical requirements. The built-in examples have different connection and installation requirements despite both being described as 59cm hobs.
Start with the saucepan and the space available: they determine whether a portable induction hob, a radiant hot plate or a built-in hob is practical. Then compare the controls you will use after the milk comes to the boil.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Gentle simmering | Compare manual low-heat settings and timer operation; neither replaces watching and stirring the pan. | If I make milk-based rice pudding, I need to turn the heat down after boiling without relying on a high-power setting. Around 46% of consumers put low-simmer control first. |
| Worktop and storage space | Measure the full appliance and the space where it will be used or stored; a built-in hob also needs a suitable worktop cut-out. | When I need my worktop back between cooks, I want a single hob I can put away. Compact storage comes first for around 36% of consumers. |
| Pan and installation fit | For induction, check the magnetic base and supported pan diameter. For any hob, check its electrical and installation instructions. | I would rather keep my saucepan or avoid arranging worktop and electrical changes, so I need to know which route fits my kitchen. Around 18% of consumers put compatibility and installation first. |
An induction hob needs a magnetic pan base, and portable models specify supported pan diameters. Your usual rice-pudding pan may not meet both conditions.
Test the base with a magnet, then compare its flat base diameter—not the rim diameter—with the exact hob’s stated range.
If the pan does not fit those requirements, using induction may mean changing saucepans.
Maximum power describes neither the lowest manual setting nor how a hob behaves with your saucepan. The stovetop method published by Hint Of Helen calls for reducing the heat after boiling and stirring regularly.
Compare the low settings and timer controls, and watch the first batch closely rather than relying on a preset alone.
Portable hobs draw substantial power. Electrical Safety First warns that exceeding an extension lead’s rating or connecting extension leads together can cause overheating and fire risk.
Check the lead’s marked rating and the combined load of appliances connected to it; do not chain extension leads.
Width does not establish electrical or fitting requirements. The product information lists a Logik built-in model requiring a dedicated 32A circuit and qualified installation, while the Zanussi listing mentions a 13A plug alongside a professional-installation requirement.
Check the exact model’s circuit, cut-out and installation instructions before arranging delivery or altering the worktop.
A permanent installation may involve worktop fitting or electrical work.
Tefal’s IH201840 and IH210840 are compact, single-zone portable induction options for use with compatible saucepans.
Quest is relevant if you are considering a plug-in radiant hot plate instead of induction.
Logik’s LINDHOB23 is a permanent four-zone induction option, not a hob to put away after cooking.
Zanussi’s ZIBN646K is another permanent, four-zone induction option to assess against your kitchen installation.
This portable induction option is for a small-kitchen worktop where one cooking zone is enough. Check your saucepan and the hob’s low-heat controls before choosing it for rice pudding.
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A portable, single-hob option if you have an induction-compatible saucepan and want to store the appliance between uses.
The product name specifies 10 power settings, six functions, touch controls, a glass panel and a safety lock. For rice pudding, check the lowest manual setting and whether a timer is available; also confirm that your pan base fits the supported diameter range. Keep watching and stirring the pudding during cooking.
Prioritise a low manual setting you can adjust after bringing the milk to the boil. The stovetop method published by Hint Of Helen then uses the lowest heat for around 30 minutes and calls for stirring about every five minutes; a timer does not replace monitoring the pan.
It needs a magnetic base and must fit the particular hob’s supported pan-size range. Electrolux UK Support recommends checking the base with a magnet; compare the flat base diameter with the model’s instructions as well.
Check the lead’s marked rating and the combined load before connecting the hob; never exceed that rating or chain extension leads. Electrical Safety First notes that some leads are rated below 13A and gives about 3kW as the maximum load for a single socket.
Check the exact model rather than assuming all built-in hobs connect in the same way. The product information specifies qualified installation and a dedicated 32A circuit for the Logik LINDHOB23; the Zanussi ZIBN646K listing mentions a 13A plug but also states that professional installation is required.
Choose a stable position that keeps the appliance and lead clear of water and does not block its ventilation. Electrical Safety First advises keeping electrical equipment away from wet hands and not leaving switched-on appliances unattended; follow the hob’s placement and cleaning instructions too.