Congratulations on deciding to take the dive and purchase a pizza oven! These outdoor cookers are versatile and can enhance your backyard entertaining. Nevertheless, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right one is tough. Here are some major factors to consider, while looking for a pizza oven suitable to your needs

Sizing your need

Pizza ovens are available in a wide range – from portable countertop models to permanent, brick-built structures. Consider how you plan to use the oven.

If you need one for small get-togethers with family members or close friends, then small countertop ovens like Delivita pizza ovens will be perfect. They are dual-fuelled ovens offering the convenience of wood-fire and ease of gas-fired cooking. To enhance your gourmet experiences, you can choose relevant accessories from peels and brushes to recipe books and covers from BBQs 2U.

If you plan large pizza parties, a bigger oven is necessary. Think about the number of pizzas you typically cook at once and choose an oven with cooking surface the comfortably accommodates them. Remember, large ovens also take longer time to preheat, so factor in prep time, while making the decision.

Heat retention

Heat retention is a crucial factor for achieving that perfect pizza crust. A good pizza oven is well-insulated to maintain consistent cooking temperature. Look for ovens made with hire quality material like firebrick, refractory cement or stainless steel. These materials absorb and radiate heat efficiently, ensuring your pizzas cook quickly and evenly.

Brands like Gozney are popular for their excellent heat retention capabilities, allowing you to achieve restaurant-style pizzas in your backyard. The Gozney Dome model efficiently maintains high heat intensity that is essential for the golden-brown pizza crust. The model is designed for performance and durability, and it delivers remarkable results every time.

Fueling your passion

Next, you need to consider the fuel source. Wood-fired ovens are popular traditional option, offering matchless smoky flavour and impressive heat. However, they require more maintenance, take long time to preheat, and may not be ideal for all settings, especially apartments and balconies with fire restrictions.

Gas-fired ovens are more convenient. They light up quickly, so are perfect for those who desire a hassle-free pizza making experience. However, they may not achieve the same scorching temperatures as wood-fired, which can impact the characteristic char on the crust.

Electric ovens are another option, providing consistent heat and easy clean-up, but lack open flame and smoky flavour that majority of pizza lovers crave.

Extra features to enhance your experience

• Thermometer is valuable, allowing you to precisely monitor the heat level within the oven.
• Pizza peels are long, flat tools used to slide pizzas in and out of the oven safely.
• Steam injectors are great for baking bread.

These are not essentials but helpful!

Conclusion

Pizza is the star but you can do much more in the oven. The high heat is ideal to sear steaks, roast veggies, and bake desserts. Consider how versatile you wish your oven to be and choose one that accommodates your culinary adventures.