Who is this for?

Induction-ready curry cooks

If you already have a flat-based, magnetic pan, an induction hob lets you consider models with selectable settings for frying spices and onions before reducing the heat to simmer.

People keeping their current pans

If your curry pot is not induction-compatible, a conventional electric hot plate lets you consider a portable burner without changing pans. Check that the pot base suits the heating surface.

Small-space extra-burner shoppers

If you need one additional cooking zone in a small or temporary kitchen, check the available worktop space, stable placement and socket arrangement before choosing a hob.

What matters when choosing?

For potato curry, establish whether your pan suits induction before comparing heat controls, cooking-zone size and where the hob will sit.

Concern What to check Who this matters to
Pan and zone fit For induction, check that a magnet sticks to the pan base and compare its base diameter with the model’s stated range. For a hot plate, compare the pot base with the heating surface. If I want to keep my curry pot, I need to know whether it will work on the hob and fit its cooking zone; around 45% of consumers put pan and zone fit first.
Heat control Compare the exact model’s power or temperature settings and its controls for reducing heat after frying. A maximum wattage figure alone does not describe that adjustment. When I fry spices before simmering potatoes, I want to be able to lower the heat and keep watching the pan; roughly 33% of consumers place heat control first.
Space and electrical setup Check the worktop dimensions and the maker’s placement instructions. If using an extension lead, check its marked rating against the connected load. With little clear worktop space, I need a stable place and a suitable electrical connection for one extra burner; around 22% of consumers prioritise space and electrical setup.

What should you avoid?

  • Assuming every saucepan works on induction

    Induction needs a magnetic pan base. Judge says its JEA90 also requires a base of at least 12 cm, so a suitable material alone does not establish that a particular pan fits.

    Test your curry pan’s base with a magnet and compare its base diameter with the manual for the exact hob.

    If the pan is incompatible, using an induction hob means changing to suitable cookware.

  • Choosing by maximum wattage alone

    A wattage rating does not tell you whether your pot fits or how you can adjust the heat between frying and simmering. Models differ in their stated controls and pan-size requirements.

    Compare the cooking-zone dimensions and available settings with your pot and the stages of your curry recipe.

  • Overloading an extension lead

    Electrical Safety First warns that overloaded leads and sockets can overheat, and that a wound cable reel can overheat during use.

    Check the marked rating against the total connected load, do not daisy-chain extension leads and fully unwind a cable reel before using it at its rated current.

  • Leaving the hob unattended

    Spices and oil need attention while heating. Keeping a portable hob clear of cloths and its power lead clear of the cooking surface also matters during a longer simmer.

    Stay with the pan while cooking, keep combustible items away and switch the hob off when you finish.

Brands to consider

Tefal

The Everyday Induction Hob IH201840 is a portable induction option for cooks with compatible pans who want a choice of cooking programmes.

  • Tefal lists six programmes, a 2100 W maximum output and a stated pan range of 12–26 cm for this model.
  • Your curry pan still needs an induction-compatible base within the model’s stated range; these specifications do not describe every Tefal hob.

Judge

The JEA90 is a tabletop induction option for cooks who prefer selectable temperatures.

  • Judge lists ten temperature selections from 60°C to 240°C and dimensions of 31.0 × 27.0 × 5.0 cm for the JEA90.
  • Judge specifies magnetic cookware and excludes pan bases under 12 cm, so check your pot before choosing this model.

Daewoo

The SDA1731 represents the conventional electric-hot-plate route for a single extra cooking zone.

  • The SDA1731 is described as a 1500 W hot plate with a cast-iron heating plate, thermostatic control and non-slip feet.
  • Compare your pot base with the heating surface before ordering; these product details do not establish how the hob will perform with every pot.

Portable hob on Joybuy

The product shown is a portable induction hob for cooking with an induction-compatible curry pan. Check your pan-base size and intended worktop position against the product instructions before ordering.

ochama 2000 W portable induction hob with touch controls

ochama 2000 W Induction Hob, 10 Power Settings and 6 Functions

Consider this single-zone induction hob if your curry pan is induction-compatible and you want settings to adjust while frying and simmering.

The product name specifies 2000 W, touch controls, ten power settings, six functions, a glass panel and a safety lock. Check the compatible pan-base diameter, worktop placement instructions and plug details for the product you order.

View on Joybuy

Common questions

Will my current curry pan work on an induction hob?

It will work only if its base is magnetic and meets the size requirement of the hob you choose. Judge specifies a minimum 12 cm pan base for the JEA90, while Tefal states a 12–26 cm pan range for the IH201840; check your pan’s base rather than its rim.

Which controls are useful for potato curry?

Adjustable power or temperature settings let you change the selected heat after frying spices and onions and before simmering. Tefal lists cooking programmes for the IH201840, while Judge lists ten selectable temperatures for the JEA90; neither removes the need to watch and stir the pan.

Can I use a portable hob with an extension lead?

Only if the lead’s marked rating accommodates the hob and every other connected appliance. Electrical Safety First advises against overloading or daisy-chaining extensions and says a cable reel must be fully unwound to achieve its current rating.

What electrical-product details should I check before ordering?

For use in Great Britain, check that the product is intended for the GB market and confirm its supplied plug arrangement with the seller. The Office for Product Safety & Standards’ guidance on the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 applies to Great Britain; Northern Ireland provisions differ, so check the documentation applicable to your delivery location.