Wood-fired ovens are amazing for making pizzas that have a delicious smoky flavor and a perfectly crispy crust. They bring a traditional touch to the process and give each dish a unique taste that’s hard to replicate with regular kitchen ovens.
If you want to start cooking your own and make each slice just as mouthwatering as the ones you get from top-notch pizzerias, here’s what you should know.
Choosing the Right Oven
If you’re new to wood-fired cooking, portable ovens like the Ooni Koda are a great choice. They heat up quickly and are easy to use. Within about 15 minutes, you’ll have reached the perfect cooking temperature, and your pizzas will be ready in just a few minutes.
For a more authentic and traditional experience, consider a brick oven. Although they take longer to heat up, they retain high temperatures for extended periods. Brick ovens are ideal for larger gatherings or for those who want the full culinary delight of wood-fired cooking.
Installation and Setup
When setting up your oven, safety is key. Choose a location with adequate space and keep the oven away from flammable materials and buildings. If you have a brick oven, it’s important to construct a non-combustible base. Proper ventilation is crucial for preventing smoke buildup and ensuring the oven functions properly.
Preparing to Cook
The type of wood you use is essential for achieving the best results. Choose hardwoods like oak, maple, or fruit woods such as apple and cherry. These woods burn cleaner and hotter, imparting a pleasant aroma without overwhelming it with smoke.
To build a fire, start with kindling and smaller pieces of wood. Once the smaller wood has caught fire, gradually add larger logs. This method ensures a steady burn and allows the oven to reach the high temperatures needed for cooking.
Heating the Oven
Your oven needs to reach the optimal temperature range of 700°F to 800°F (370°C to 430°C). That typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your oven and the type of wood you’re using. Use an infrared thermometer to accurately measure the oven’s temperature.
Cooking Your Pizza
Now it’s time to prepare the dough and add your favorite toppings. Keep in mind that balanced toppings ensure even cooking. Once the base is ready, slide it onto the oven floor using a pizza peel. Cooking times vary, but generally, it takes between 90 seconds and 3 minutes. Remember to rotate the pizza halfway through to achieve an even crust.
Maintaining the Oven
Use a brush to sweep out the ashes and any food debris. Periodically deep clean the oven with an ash vacuum to maintain its efficiency and prolong its lifespan.
Tips for Best Results
To ensure your oven reaches the desired temperature, always preheat it properly before cooking. While cooking, rotate the pizza to achieve an evenly baked crust. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different woods to find the flavor profile that best suits your taste preferences.
The Bottom Line
This one offers a few advantages when compared to a stone oven. First of all, the pizza will be ready in only around 2 minutes on average. Also, the flavor from the wood gives the food that special taste, unlike other models. So, if you are in for making a traditional Margherita, cooking it in a wood oven will make it look like it just came from Naples.
