Best Temperature To Cook Pizza In Wood Fired Oven
Wood-fired ovens are a popular choice for cooking pizza because they produce a unique flavor that can't be replicated by other cooking methods. However, to get the perfect pizza, you need to make sure you're cooking it at the right temperature. In this article, we'll explore the best temperature to cook pizza in a wood-fired oven.
What is a Wood Fired Oven?
A wood-fired oven is an oven that uses wood as its fuel source. The oven is typically made of clay or brick and is heated by building a fire inside the oven. The heat from the fire is then used to cook the food inside.
Why Cook Pizza in a Wood Fired Oven?
There are several reasons why cooking pizza in a wood-fired oven is a popular choice:
- The high heat produced by the wood-fired oven cooks the pizza quickly and evenly.
- The wood adds a unique smoky flavor to the pizza.
- The brick or clay material of the oven retains heat, allowing it to stay hot even after the fire has burned out.
The Best Temperature to Cook Pizza in a Wood Fired Oven
The best temperature to cook pizza in a wood-fired oven is between 700-800 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the pizza will cook quickly, usually in 90 seconds or less, and will develop the perfect crispy crust.
It's important to note that the temperature of the oven will vary depending on the type of wood used, the size of the oven, and the thickness of the pizza. It may take some practice to find the perfect temperature for your oven and pizza.
How to Check the Temperature of a Wood Fired Oven
There are several ways to check the temperature of a wood-fired oven:
- Use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of the oven walls and floor.
- Place a small amount of flour on the oven floor. If it turns brown in 60 seconds, the oven is at the right temperature.
- Check the color of the flames. When the flames are blue with no yellow, the oven is at the right temperature.
Tips for Cooking Pizza in a Wood Fired Oven
Here are some tips for cooking the perfect pizza in a wood-fired oven:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don't overload the pizza with toppings, as this can make it difficult to cook evenly.
- Rotate the pizza every 30 seconds to ensure even cooking.
- Use a pizza peel to transfer the pizza to and from the oven.
- Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
The Bottom Line
If you want to cook the perfect pizza in a wood-fired oven, it's essential to get the temperature right. Aim for a temperature between 700-800 degrees Fahrenheit and use the tips above to cook the perfect pizza every time.