Outdoor pizza ovens have gained popularity among home cooks in recent years. These compact and portable ovens are a great option for those with limited outdoor space, as they can easily be stored in a bag when not in use. Additionally, there are indoor pizza oven options available for those who prefer to cook indoors.
When shopping for a home pizza oven, it’s important to consider the types of pizzas you plan to make. Most portable outdoor pizza ovens are designed for high-heat cooking, particularly for Neapolitan-style pizzas that require temperatures up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. These ovens typically use wood as a fuel source, but there are also options for propane or natural gas burners, which allow for easier temperature control.
Size is another factor to consider when choosing a pizza oven. Most ovens can accommodate 12-inch pizzas, which is perfect for individuals or pizza parties where everyone can customize their own toppings. However, if you plan to make larger pizzas or use the oven for other purposes, it’s worth investing in a larger version that can accommodate larger pies or pans.
Creating quality pizza at home requires ample counter or table space. It’s important to have enough room to stretch and prep the pizza dough, organize the toppings, and load the pies onto a peel. Setting up a dedicated pizza-making station with additional space will make the process much easier and more efficient. It’s also helpful to have the pizza station located near the oven to monitor the cooking process closely.
Choosing a table or stand that can withstand the heat from the oven is essential. Most ovens are well-insulated or emit minimal heat, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Stainless steel or metal surfaces are good choices for outdoor setups.
Now, let’s take a look at some recommended outdoor pizza ovens:
1. Ooni Karu 16: This multi-fuel pizza oven from Ooni supports wood, charcoal, and gas as fuel sources. It’s the company’s largest model, allowing for larger pizzas and the use of pans and cast iron for baking, roasting, and searing.
2. Solo Stove Pi: Known for their fire pits, Solo Stove also offers a reliable multi-fuel pizza oven. The Pi can reach cooking temperatures of up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit with wood and 900 degrees with a gas burner. It features an open design for more airflow, similar to a brick oven.
3. Ooni Fyra 12: This compact and lightweight pizza oven runs on wood pellets and requires less tending to the fire. It can reach temperatures of up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit and cooks pizzas in as little as a minute.
For those who prefer to cook indoors, there are also options for indoor pizza ovens:
1. Ooni Volt 12: Ooni’s first electric oven is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It offers weather-resistant construction and brings the company’s design and efficiency to your kitchen. This versatile oven is a great option for indoor pizza-making.
It’s worth noting that many homes already have suitable indoor options for making pizza, such as conventional ovens or multi-function countertop units. With the addition of affordable accessories, home cooks can easily enhance their pizza-making capabilities without the need for a dedicated appliance. Size is an important consideration for indoor ovens, as they tend to be larger and may require additional storage space when not in use.
Whether you choose an outdoor or indoor pizza oven, investing in the right equipment will greatly enhance your pizza-making experience. Consider your specific needs and preferences when making a purchase, and enjoy creating delicious homemade pizzas in the comfort of your own home.