As a universal culinary favourite, pizza needs no introduction. However, cooking it over fire takes it to the next level. The intense heat of the fire infuses this globally loved dish with a distinct smoky flavour that’s hard to bead. The irresistible combination of a perfectly crisp crust and bubbly cheese is something you have to experience.
Thankfully, you don’t need to visit an Italian pizzeria to experience this magic. With the right pizza oven, you can enjoy the authentic flavours of a fire-baked crust topped with your favourite ingredients.
In the land down under, you’re definitely not short of options when it comes to authentic, wood-fired pizza ovens. So, if you want to elevate your outdoor dining experience, shopping for a pizza oven in Australia can be a game-changer. When looking for a wooden-fired pizza oven Australia stores provide, there are several aspects you should consider to find the right one for your needs.
What Material Is a Pizza Oven Made Of?
Wood-fired pizza ovens can be made from different materials such as cast iron, brick, clay, or stainless steel. These have unique characteristics and provide various benefits.
For instance, ovens made from clay bricks can distribute heat uniformly. This ensures that the pizza cooks uniformly, resulting in a perfect crispy crust. Also, clay pizza ovens can impart subtle smoky flavours, which add a rustic charm to the overall cooking experience.
Next, clay ovens are known to take advantage of the heat to the max. Once heated they can stay hot for hours, requiring less wood to maintain the temperature. This makes them an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution.
Similar to them, cast iron ovens are favoured for their ability to maintain a high temperature for a long period and retain it effectively throughout the baking process. On the downside, these models are prone to rust when exposed to moisture. This means they need regular maintenance and storage in a dry place.
Stainless steel models, on the other hand, can retain heat for a shorter period. That’s because steel cools quickly once the fire dies down. Design-wise, these ovens are usually lightweight and portable, making them ideal for smaller outdoor spaces.
What Is the Best Size for a Pizza Oven?
Pizza ovens come in various sizes. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your space’ dimensions and layout when choosing a specific design. Occasional pizza makers who have a small backyard area may opt for a compact pizza oven that can fit one small pizza at a time. This type of oven is also portable and easy to install.
Large models on the other hand can fit three to six pizzas. This makes them perfect for large families who like to entertain often in their spacious outdoor kitchens.
Which Stores Should You Consider?
When looking for the right pizza oven to fit your outdoor space, make sure to shop from reputable stores. Choosing a reputable store ensures quality, reliability, and peace of mind. Reputable stores source their ovens from established manufacturers and offer carry a wide selection of quality designs you can choose from.
Moreover, these stores often employ knowledgeable professionals who can guide you in finding the right fit for your needs, space, and budget. Moreover, they offer comprehensive warranties, protecting you against manufacturing defects or issues.
What Safety Precautions Should You Take?
In addition to choosing the right store and brand, make sure you prioritise safety when purchasing a wood-fired pizza oven. These models may reach dangerously high temperatures, (425°C and up) so make sure to choose ovens with insulated exteriors to reduce surface heat, and easy-to-use doors and handles to prevent accidental burns. Also, many accessories included or recommended by the manufacturer can enhance safety.
Which Accessories Can Help You Bake Properly?
Speaking of accessories, if you want to do the job right and safely, you should have a few accessories. As already mentioned, fireproof gloves are one of them. They often come as part of a starter kit or accessory package, but if not, you should buy one pair separately. With their help, you can safely add more wood to the oven or manoeuvre tools like pizza peels without fear of burns or accidents.
Pizza peels are other handy accessories. They look like a big spatula and can help you easily insert and remove the pizza from the oven. A pizza cutter is always a welcomed addition to your baking to ensure clean and precise cuts, even on thick crusts or loaded toppings. Unlike knives that can drag and mess up your masterpiece, pizza cutters glide through with ease.
A heat-resistant bristle brush is another important tool for wood-fired ovens. It can clean the ashes, move coals around and sweep off the bricks. This can help keep things running smoothly and maintain your oven’s performance. Choose a brush with a long handle to clean safely without getting too close to the heat.
