Outdoor cooking, particularly pizza making, has gained in popularity. Pizza ovens have become a favourite among lovers because of the seductive scent of freshly baked pizza and the excitement of personalizing their favourite toppings. The Ooni Pizza OveÂn is an excellent choice for pizza lovers. This post will provide a complete analysis of this outdoor pizza oven to help you make an informed buying decision.
What is the Ooni Pizza Oven?
The Ooni Pizza OveÂn is a compact, portable outdoor oven that produces delicious pizzas. It stands out from the crowd due to its exquisite design and long-lasting stainless-steel construction. The Pizza Oven Ooni comes in various models, each with its features and capabilities.
The impreÂssive speed with which the Ooni Pizza Oven reaches high temperatures is a unique characteristic. The oven can get over 900°F (482°C) in minutes, making it perfect for producing delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas in less than 90 seconds. This extreme heat provides beautifully crispy crusts and thoroughly cooked toppings due to high heat and a stone baking surface.
Pros And Cons of Ooni Pizza Ovens
Owning an outdoor pizza oven has various advantages. These one-of-a-kind ovens bring professional pizza-making to your home, from rapid cooking to producing a restaurant-quality pie.
Delectable Crust
You can make the perfect crust with the Ooni pizza oven: crispy and soft on the surface.
Every Ooni’s high heat and cordierite stone work together to create the ideal environment for quick and uniform cooking.
The dough is rapidly cooked as it touches the hot stone from the bottom. Because the stone is porous, it absorbs moisture from the dough, leaving the crust dry and crispy, like pizza cooked in a restaurant’s enormous brick outdoor pizza oven. The flame cooks the topping and top layer of pizza dough.
Quick Cook
According to Ooni, their ovens can achieve temperatures of up to 950°F, equivalent to or higher than the heat output of a conventional pizza oven or brick oven. Because of the high heat and the pizza stone, the pizza cooks rapidly.
Ooni claims to be able to cook a pizza in 60 seconds or less.
Some rivals promise to make pizza rapidly, but not as swiftly as Ooni:
- A pizza takes 2 minutes to cook in a Solo Stove pizza oven.
- BakerStone gas pizza ovens bake pizzas in less than 2 minutes.
- Presto’s countertop Pizzazz pizza oven cooks pizza in 11-13 minutes.
The Gozney Roccbox, Ooni’s primary competitor, has a cook time of 60 seconds.
Most homemade pizza recipes with fresh dough take 10-18 minutes in a 400-450°F oven. So, getting a baked and hot pizza in 60 seconds appeals to me.
Even though the Ooni pizza oven can cook a pizza in 60 seconds, I observed that the ideal cooking time is between 2 and 3 minutes. Numerous factors will influence the duration of time, including:
- How long did you leave the stone heated?
- Ingredients and dough thickness
- Your selected character
- the variety of toppings
Nonetheless, an outdoor pizza oven cooks pizza significantly faster than an interior oven.
Crispy ToppingsÂ
Using gas or propane as a fuel source, you can adjust the flames and regulate how quickly or slowly the toppings cook by twisting a dial. Add extra fuel to the wood or charcoal fire and open the hood or vents to let more oxygen into the oven. Lifting the pizza with a rotating peel closer to the flames, regardless of the fuel source, will produce crispier toppings (if desired).
Unlike a conventional oven, open flames in an Ooni produce browned cheese, crispy toppings, burned vegetables, and seared meats. Reduce the heat to ensure your toppings brown evenly but with less char.
Excellent For Entertaining
The Ooni is an excellent choice for a happy gathering if you have a large family or like entertaining. Family and party guests may observe you cooking pizzas to order in your garden. You may also invite people to choose their own toppings and pie crusts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with your guests rather than being locked in the kitchen while everyone else is having a good time.
Make Pizza Like A Pro
If you enjoy a challenge as a home cook, the Ooni is an excellent pick. In a standard oven, you place your pizza on a stone, baking sheet, or rack and wait for it to cook. Keep an eye on the Ooni while you’re cooking. You’ll need to rotate and inspect the pizza during the process.
You’ll learn what it takes to cook like a pro. If you already like baking pizza, knowing how to produce a restaurant-worthy pie may provide great fun and satisfaction.
Simple To Install
Ooni’s propane gas versions are the simplest to set up. Because they arrive assembled, all you have to do is unfold the oven legs, install the pizza stone, and securely connect the gas supply.
If it’s a multi-fuel type (propane gas, wood, or charcoal), you’ll need to connect the included pipe to exhaust the smoke while burning wood, charcoal, or natural gas. (Natural gas is only offered as an option on the Karu 16.)
After you’ve set up your oven, let it run for 30 minutes before using it for the first time. Allow it to cool fully before cleaning the inside with dry paper towels. This phase prepares the oven for usage by removing any remaining oils from the production process.
Multi-Fuel Sources
Ooni has three fuel options from which to choose:
While propane and gas are the most practical, wood and charcoal provide a smokey flavour available only in a pizza oven.
You must purchase a gas burner adaptor if you wish to use gas or propane on any models with those options.
The Ooni Koda 12 can only be powered by propane, whilst the Ooni Fyra 12 can only be powered by wood pellets.
Construction Of High Quality
Ooni pizza ovens are well-made and durable. In the construction, stainless steel, carbon steel, or both are used:
- Powder-coated carbon steel and brushed stainless steel 304, 409, and 430 make up the Karu 16.
- The Karu 12 is made from brushed 430 stainless steel.
- There are powder-coated carbon steel Koda 12, Koda 16, and Fyra 12 options.
The pizza stones are made of cordierite stone. It can sustain extremely high temperatures, efficiently transmit heat, and resist thermal stress.
Portable
Some Ooni pizza ovens are lightweight and portable. They are portable, as opposed to traditional indoor or built-in outdoor ovens. Ooni sells fabric carrying covers for the Karu 12 (26.5 lbs. ), Koda 12 (20.4 lbs. ), and Fyra 12 (22 lbs.). Other models (Karu 16 and Karu 16) are too heavy to carry, weighing 40 pounds or more.
More Than Just Pizza
The Ooni pizza oven is versatile. Aside from pizza, Ooni recommends fresh-baked bread, meat, fish, and veggie meals. If you have a multi-fuel model, you may also experiment with the diverse flavours that emerge when you use gas, charcoal, or wood.
Long-Term Warranty
Ooni has a one-year guarantee, but if you register your equipment within 60 days of receiving it, it will be extended for an additional two years. Breville’s Smart Oven Pizzaiolo comes with a three-year warranty. A one-year guarantee is included with a Cru wood-fired oven.
Cons Of Ooni Pizza Ovens
Expensive
An outdoor pizza oven is not inexpensive. The cheapest model costs $350, while higher-end, multi-fuel models, such as the Karu 16, cost over $800. On Ooni.com, you can compare prices for all models on a single page.
You will, however, need a pizza peel, a flipping peel, and an infrared thermometer in addition to the oven. A heat-resistant stand, as well as an oven cover, are necessary. You’ll need a carrying case if you have a portable model and want to take it.
While buying an Ooni is less expensive than installing and maintaining a permanent outdoor pizza oven, it is still a significant investment for most individuals.
The Learning Curve
Mastering the oven takes patience. You’ll most likely eat a few pizzas before you receive it. You must turn the pizza every 30 seconds rather than setting a timer and going away. When cooking at high temperatures, there is a tiny margin for mistakes.
Ooni gives some pointers for newcomers:
- Use two pizza peels, which are large, flat instruments for gripping the pizza. Bake it on a cold peel because fresh pizza dough adheres to a hot peel. Keep a second peel next to the oven for turning and removing the pizza.
- To avoid sticking, dust the peel and your hands with flour before touching the dough. Using semolina flour or cornmeal yields the finest results.
- Check for holes in the dough and fill them before topping. Pinch any gaps to keep the dough together.
- Shake the stretched dough on the peel before topping to ensure it glides freely. Flour your hands, take up the dough, and sprinkle the peel with flour if it sticks. Sticky dough keeps the pizza from rolling around in the oven.
- Less is more when it comes to toppings. Weightless toppings allow pizza to slide easily off the peel and into the oven.
- Continue to move—prepare everything. If you leave your pizza on the peel for too long before baking, the sauce may seep into the dough, making it sticky.
- Lift one side of the pizza dough on the peel and softly blow beneath it with a lubricated palm to avoid sticking.
Peel-sticky pizza
Pizza dough frequently adheres to the peel when placed into the oven, spilling and scorching the toppings.
Pizza usually sticks because there isn’t enough flour on the peel or the process takes too long.
Prepare your toppings for the best results while assembling and baking your pizza.
Do you have a problem with dough sticking? Try using a pan. Pan-baking pizza produces a more distinct crust than stone-baking pizza.
Ooni’s tips for reducing sticking:
- Before flattening, dust your peel and dough ball with flour, semolina, or cornmeal. To ensure that the flattened dough on your peel moves quickly, shake it.
- Dry the peel.
- Wet dough or toppings are not permitted. Select low-moisture mozzarella and a hearty tomato sauce.
Preheat Takes Long
Preheating the Ooni takes at least 15 minutes, but more often than not, 25 or 30. Although it takes 30-35 minutes, it cooks pizza in 1-3 minutes.
Thin Crust Is Difficult to Make
Ooni thin-crust pizza is challenging to produce due to high temperatures. It expands when pizza dough comes into contact with the hot stone and flames.
In an Ooni, you can make thin-crust pizza, but you must roll the dough thinner and experiment with the dough mix and cooking temperatures.
Flame Dies in Wind
Cooking with gas or propane on a windy day needs patience. The wind might extinguish the flame, causing your pizza to burn. The rapid loss of heat has an impact on doneness and cooking time. If you live in a windy place, you may need to relocate the oven.
Pizza Stones Crack
People express their dissatisfaction with cracked pizza stones. Ooni uses cordierite pizza stones. Despite high temperatures and thermal stress, cracking can occur. Dropping or slamming something heavy on top of it might cause it to shatter.
These methods will help you avoid cracking:
- Preheat and cool your stone before storing it in a more suitable location.
- Never immerse a hot pizza stone in cold water.
- Keep your pizza stone dry to minimize deterioration.
Not Frozen Pizza Friendly
I don’t recommend cooking frozen pizza in the Ooni because of the high temperature and pace. The outside cooks faster than the interior, resulting in an uneven outcome. Pre-made frozen pizzas should be cooked in a regular oven. If you thaw the pizza beforehand, the Ooni will function.
Door Sticks
The Ooni Karu 16‘s moveable oven door reduces heat loss. It opens easily when turned off but shuts up when heated, maybe due to steel expansion. Pulling on the handle firmly opens it. Ensure your table or stand is sturdy to avoid pulling the stove off. This can be fixed by adjusting the lock screws, but be cautious the first few times you cook.
Essential Accessories Of Pizza Oven Ooni
Modular Table Ooni
The Ooni Modular Tables are the perfect base for your outdoor pizza oven and accessories. The stainless steel surface fits all Ooni pizza oven models perfectly.
Our tables are made from powder-coated solid carbon steel. They also include two adjustable height shelves, built-in hooks for Ooni peels, and other accessories. Furthermore, the two lockable castors will keep your kitchen table sturdy.
Infrared Thermometer Ooni
When your pizza stone is ready, you’ll know. The Ooni Infrared Thermometer checks the surface temperature of your Ooni pizza oven in real-time.
Topping Station and Ooni Stack
The Ooni Stack can provide individual pizza dough balls, or the three borosilicate glass bowls may contain pizza toppings without taking up counter space.
The Ooni Topping Station expands prep options. Toppings for the pizza party are provided by two 1.6L and four 0.8L Ooni Topping containers. The topping station is light and portable and fits perfectly on our Ooni Modular Tables. The powder-coated frame and stainless steel cover simplify transitioning between indoor and outdoor kitchens.
Pizza Peels Ooni
Peels are a distinctive tool used by pizza producers. Hot pizzas may be launched, rotated, and retrieved from ovens. Ooni offers peels in a variety of sizes to suit your preferences. The traditional Ooni Pizza Peel is adaptable. The microscopic openings in the Ooni Perforated Peel allow additional flour to pass through, making pizza bases crisper and tastier.
The Ooni Bamboo Peel is ideal for stretching dough, launching it, and displaying pizzas on a chic board. The compact, spherical Ooni Turning Peel allows you to turn pizza without taking it out of the oven, allowing it to cook more quickly and evenly.
Grizzler, Ooni
The Ooni Grizzler is for those rare situations when you don’t want pizza. With outstanding, eye-catching grill marks, we developed this premium cast iron pan to sear meats and veggies flawlessly. The Grizzler also has a custom-designed cast iron handle and a responsibly harvested Beech Wood serving board.
Pizza Oven Brush Ooni
Clean your Ooni oven with our 2-in-1 Pizza Oven Brush to keep it running correctly. It has a comfortable wooden handle, bristles for removing excess flour, and a scraper for more challenging, stuck-on sections of your pizza stone.
Ooni Oven Protector
Your Ooni oven is your doorway to hot, fresh, restaurant-quality pizza at home. Use one of our waterproof oven covers to protect your Ooni oven from the elements. Each oven model includes a high-quality, breathable polyester cover to protect your Ooni from the elements.
With an Ooni oven and a few tools and accessories, you can create delicious pizza in the comfort of your own home. You may start constructing your pizza toolkit at ooni.com.
Models Of Ooni Pizza Ovens
Outdoor pizza ovens come in three varieties: Karu, Koda, and Fyra. While they all make pizza, they each have unique traits that allow them to suit the needs of their clients.
Ooni Karu 16
Karu is available in two sizes: Karu 12 and Karu 16. The number symbolizes the largest-diameter pizza you’ve ever eaten.
You can get ready. For example, the Karu 12 can cook up to 12 inches wide pizzas. Both are multifuel, able to burn wood, charcoal, or propane gas. With an adapter, the Karu 16 may run on natural gas. Ooni’s most enormous oven, the Karu 16, weighs 62.6 lbs. It is also the most expensive.
Ooni Koda
The Koda is available in two sizes: the Koda 12 and the Koda 16. The Koda 16 can cook pizzas up to 16 inches wide. Both are powered by propane gas. However, the Koda 16 may be changed to natural gas with an optional conversion kit. Ooni’s lightest oven, the Koda 12, weighs just 20.4 pounds. An optional carrying case can be purchased to ensure safe travel.
Ooni Fyra
The Fyra 12 can cook pizzas up to 12 inches wide. It runs only on wood pellets. With a weight of 22 pounds, it may also be transported using a carrying case if you want to throw a pizza party someplace other than your house.
Advantages of the Ooni Pizza Stove
The Ooni Pizza Oven has several advantages for pizza lovers and outdoor cooks. Its short heat-up time allows for spontaneous pizza parties without a lengthy wait. Additionally, reaching high temperatures is necessary for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
Furthermore, the Ooni Pizza Oven is not limited to a single type of pizza; it can take a variety of styles and recipes. The outdoor Pizza Oven lets you try various pizza recipes, from thin-crust classics to deep-dish delicacies. This oven’s versatility extends to baking bread, roasting vegetables, and searing steaks.
How To Use An Ooni Pizza Oven
Allow your oven to preheat for 30 minutes so that the stone may reach 900°F. You want that stone to be hot so that the bottom of the crust cooks quickly.
- Try our real Italian pizza dough and sauce recipes.
- Before using, let the dough and toppings come to room temperature.
- Roll or stretch your dough as thinly as possible to allow it to cook with the stone’s heat.
- A pizza peel will be necessary to take the pizza into and out of the oven and turn it.
- Start with little pizzas. I use half a standard pizza dough for each pizza I make in my oven. In a 12-inch range, I’d use a third or fourth of the dough for each.
- If you have burned edges, reduce the heat or turn it off completely before cooking.
- Closely observe (but not too closely) and turn the pizza frequently to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides without burning.
What Else Can Be Cooked In An Ooni?
Your Ooni can be used for more than just pizza. Bread, flatbread, veggies, and other stuff are all possible. Cast iron skillets are ideal for cooking almost anything in your pizza oven.
Storage And Cleaning
Allow the pizza oven to cool for approximately an hour and a half before handling it. You may leave the Koda model outside unprotected for a few days during warm weather, but it’s best to cover it to keep it clean and safe. Other kinds can be kept outside. Ooni has various accessories, including a handy brush and scraper for cleaning charged particles from the stone.
Conclusion
Finally, the Ooni Pizza Oven is an excellent choice for anybody looking for a superb outdoor pizza-making experience. It is well-known among pizza fans for its quick heat-up time, high cooking temperatures, and portability. The Ooni pizza stove is ideal for hosting a pizza party, camping, or enjoying outdoor cooking.
FAQs
Is the Ooni pizza oven suitable for use indoors?
No, Ooni pizza ovens are only suitable for use outside.
Is it feasible to saturate the Ooni pizza oven?
Yes, it is intended to be used outside and to withstand the weather. Ooni recommends using a cover for increased security. Keep the oven inside if you expect extreme weather (hurricanes, blizzards, or heavy rain).
What is the best way to clean an Ooni pizza oven?
Set your Ooni oven to the highest temperature for 30 minutes to burn off food particles. After completely cooling, remove any leftover dirt and ash with the Ooni pizza oven brush. You may also use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean the insides.
What’s the deal with my Ooni pizza oven not heating up?
Check that the vent pipe on your model is clear and unobstructed. Wood, charcoal, and wood pellets will not burn efficiently without appropriate air. Keep the fuel nearby in case the fire goes out. When using natural gas or propane, you may need to tighten the connection to attain the whole flame.
Is the Ooni pizza oven equipped with a pizza peel?
No, however, you can acquire an oven bundle with a peel.
Can I use my Ooni pizza oven for anything else?
An Ooni is capable of far more than just making pizza. You may prepare vegetables, fish, meat, bread, and desserts. Ooni’s website provides meal ideas and recipes.
What stores sell Ooni pizza ovens?
Ooni pizza ovens may be purchased at Ooni.com, Amazon, and eBay.
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