Best Backyard Wood Fired Pizza Ovens for Pizza Lovers

The outdoor cooking scene has seen a significant resurgence in recent years, with more people looking to recreate the authentic gastronomic experience in the comfort of their own backyards. One increasingly popular piece of equipment is the wood fired pizza oven, which allows pizza enthusiasts to enjoy a delectable meal under the open sky.

The wood fired pizza oven far surpasses the standard barbecue when it comes to versatility and culinary prowess. It's not only a fun way to cook, but brings certain advantages that make your pizzas taste better than anything you're probably used to producing at home. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of wood fired pizza ovens, their benefits, and how you can choose the best one for your cooking needs.

The Magic Behind Wood Fired Pizza Ovens

So why is pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven superior to its more conventional counterparts? The key lies in the incredible heat that these ovens can attain. In an enclosed space, the flames from burning wood can reach temperatures upwards of 500 degrees Celsius. It cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a superb, crispy crust, while the toppings retain their flavour and nutrients better due to the rapid cooking time.

In order to get the most out of your wood fired pizza oven, it’s vital to understand the types of dough and toppings that work best. Traditional Neapolitan pizza dough, which is relatively thin and fermented for at least 24 hours, is more suited to these types of ovens. As for toppings, almost anything goes in a wood-fired pizza oven, but avoid topping-heavy pizzas as they will not cook as evenly or quickly.

Arguably, one of the most overlooked benefits of wood fired pizzas is their health aspect. The quick cooking time helps retain the nutritional value of the toppings. This high-heat, fast-cooking process ensures your vegetables stay fresh and your cheese doesn't lose its basic dairy goodness.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wood Fired Pizza Oven

Once you've decided to take the plunge and get an outdoor wood fired pizza oven, there are a few things to consider. The first is size and space requirements. These ovens can range from small, tabletop units to large, standalone ovens. You'll need to consider not only the space in your yard but also how many people you'll typically be cooking for.

Material and design are also important factors. Most wood-fired pizza ovens are made of refractory materials such as fire bricks and refractory cement, both of which are designed to withstand high temperatures and provide an even cooking surface.

Another crucial factor is durability and maintenance. A high-quality, well-built oven can last a lifetime if cared for correctly. However, keep in mind that wood-fired pizza ovens, especially those made from brick or clay, require regular cleaning and maintenance.

In terms of pricing and value for money, it largely depends on the size, quality, and performance of the oven. You should also take into account the reputation of the brand and customer reviews while making a decision.

Installation Tips for Your Wood Fired Pizza Oven

Once you've chosen the perfect oven, the next step is installing it in your backyard. When scouting for the ideal location, consider accessibility, convenience, and protection from extreme weather elements. Also, it's important to note that the oven should be placed on a fireproof base such as a stone or brick surface.

The installation process can be different for ready-made and DIY pizza ovens. For ready-made ovens, the steps would mainly involve the setup of the oven on the chosen installation spot. For DIY ovens, the process could be more complex and would require additional materials and time.

Safety should be a top priority when installing your wood fired pizza oven. Make sure there is a safe distance between the oven and any flammable materials. Maintain proper supervision while using the oven, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

How to Use and Maintain Your Wood Fired Pizza Oven

Using a wood-fired pizza oven is as much an art as it is a science. Start by carefully building a fire within the oven using kiln-dried hardwood. Allow the oven to heat up for an hour or two until it reaches the optimal pizza-cooking temperature. Then, using a peel, slide your pizza onto the hot oven floor, rotating it occasionally for even cooking.

One important aspect of maintaining your oven's efficiency and longevity is regularly cleaning it. Remove any large bits of burnt food or wood after every cook. For a more thorough clean, scrub the oven floor with a brush and a damp cloth. Remember, any ash residue can be used as a fantastic fertilizer in your garden!

Delicious Pizza Recipes to Try with Your New Oven

Your new wood-fired pizza oven deserves only the best recipes, which accentuate its ability to impart a smoky flavor and crispy crust. The classic Margherita, with its simple composition of tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil, is a great place to start.

Oak and maple create a good, clean, and hot burn that is ideal for most pizzas. For meat-loaded pizzas, try using apple or cherry woods, which impart subtle sweet and smoky flavors.

Conclusion

Owning a wood-fired pizza oven is undoubtedly a game-changer for both novice and experienced home chefs. Apart from the incredible pizzas you can create, these ovens add a special touch to outdoor gatherings, making cooking an engaging experience rather than a chore.

With a clear understanding of how these ovens work, how to choose the best one for your needs, and how to use and maintain it effectively, you're well on your way to becoming a wood-fired pizza whizz. Happy cooking!