The history of the pizza oven can be traced back thousands of years, with roots in ancient civilizations that have shaped the way we cook and enjoy pizza today. In this article, we delve into the rich history of the pizza oven, exploring its origins, evolution, and how it has become a beloved backyard fixture in modern times.
Ancient Origins
The earliest pizza ovens can be traced back to ancient civilizations, around 3,000 BC. In Egypt and Mesopotamia, simple clay ovens were used to bake flatbreads, which were a staple food for these societies. These early ovens, called tannurs or beehive ovens, were dome-shaped and used wood or charcoal for fuel.
Ancient Rome and the Birth of the Pizzaiolo
The tradition of baking bread in a dome-shaped oven continued with the ancient Romans, who built more sophisticated versions known as “forni.” These ovens featured a thick layer of insulating material and a small opening, allowing for more even heat distribution and higher temperatures. The Roman Empire’s expansion across Europe led to the spread of these ovens and their use in baking various types of bread and other dishes.
During this time, the profession of the “pizzaiolo” emerged – skilled bakers who specialized in crafting flatbreads with different toppings. It is believed that the term “pizza” was derived from the Latin word “pinsa,” which means “to press” or “to stretch.”
The Emergence of the Neapolitan Pizza Oven
In the 18th century, the modern pizza we know today began to take shape in Naples, Italy. With an abundance of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, Neapolitan pizzaiolos crafted the iconic Margherita pizza. The Neapolitan pizza oven, fueled by wood, was a crucial component in achieving the distinctive charred crust and smoky flavor.
The traditional Neapolitan pizza oven is a dome-shaped, wood-fired oven made from bricks or volcanic rock, with a floor that retains heat well. These ovens can reach temperatures of up to 900°F, allowing pizzas to cook in just 90 seconds. The design and function of these ovens have remained relatively unchanged over the centuries.
The Modern Outdoor Pizza Oven
The 20th century saw a surge in the popularity of pizza, particularly in the United States, where it became a staple in American cuisine. This led to the development of various types of pizza ovens to meet the growing demand, including gas-fired and electric ovens. However, the wood-fired pizza oven maintained its status as the gold standard for authentic pizza.
As pizza became a beloved dish worldwide, the desire to recreate the wood-fired experience at home grew. Today, a diverse range of outdoor pizza ovens are available, from portable options to large, built-in ovens. These modern ovens combine the traditional design principles of the Neapolitan pizza oven with contemporary innovations, allowing home cooks to craft the perfect pizza in their own backyards.
Outdoor pizza ovens have become an increasingly popular addition to backyards across the United States. With their ability to produce authentic, wood-fired pizzas, these ovens have transformed home cooking and backyard entertainment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various brands, prices, features to look for, how to choose the right oven, where to buy, and the best time to make your purchase.
Top Brands and Prices
There are several prominent brands in the outdoor pizza oven market, each offering unique features and price points. Some of the most popular brands include:
- Ooni: Ooni is a well-known name in the pizza oven industry, with prices ranging from $300 to $800. Known for their portable and lightweight designs, Ooni ovens can reach temperatures up to 950°F and cook pizzas in as little as 60 seconds.
- Roccbox: Roccbox ovens are designed for both wood and gas use, offering flexibility and convenience. Priced around $700, Roccbox ovens can reach up to 932°F, and their foldable legs make them easy to transport and store.
- Bertello: The Bertello Outdoor Pizza Oven is a versatile option, compatible with wood, charcoal, and gas. Prices start at around $300, making it an affordable choice for those on a budget.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef’s Italia Artisan Pizza Oven is designed for gas use and features an adjustable temperature range up to 700°F. At around $400, it’s a mid-range option that’s perfect for those looking for an easy-to-use outdoor pizza oven.
What to Look For
When shopping for an outdoor pizza oven, consider these factors:
- Fuel Type: Choose between wood, gas, or combination ovens depending on your preferred fuel source and desired cooking experience.
- Portability: If you plan on moving your oven frequently, opt for a lightweight, portable model with foldable legs or wheels.
- Temperature Range: High temperatures are essential for achieving that perfect crust. Look for an oven that can reach at least 700°F.
- Cooking Surface: A quality cooking surface, such as cordierite or ceramic, ensures even heat distribution and better pizza quality.
- Size: Consider the size of the oven relative to your available outdoor space and the number of pizzas you want to cook simultaneously.
3. How to Choose
When selecting an outdoor pizza oven, consider your personal preferences, budget, and available outdoor space. Determine which fuel type best suits your cooking style and weigh the importance of portability. Additionally, consider how frequently you’ll use the oven and what other types of food you may want to cook in it.
4. Where to Buy
Outdoor pizza ovens are available at a variety of retailers, including specialty kitchen stores, home improvement stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. Additionally, you can buy directly from manufacturers’ websites or authorized dealers.
5. Best Time to Buy
The best time to buy an outdoor pizza oven is during seasonal sales events, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or end-of-summer clearance sales. These events often feature discounts on popular brands, making it the perfect opportunity to snag a deal on your dream pizza oven.
In conclusion, finding the perfect outdoor pizza oven for your backyard is an exciting endeavor. By considering top brands, features, and your personal preferences, you can make an informed decision and invest in an oven that will bring joy and delicious pizza to your outdoor gatherings for years to come. Remember to shop around, compare prices and features, and take advantage of seasonal sales to get the best deal on your new outdoor pizza oven. With the right research and planning, you can create an unbeatable backyard culinary experience that will impress your family and friends. Happy pizza making!
Other Brands to Consider
In the growing market for outdoor pizza ovens, numerous brands have emerged to cater to a variety of preferences, budgets, and cooking styles. Here, we present an extensive list of outdoor pizza oven brands that are popular and well-regarded in the industry:
- Ooni
- Roccbox (by Gozney)
- Bertello
- Camp Chef
- Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
- Alfa Ovens
- Fontana Forni
- Forno Bravo
- Forno Venetzia
- Chicago Brick Oven
- Bull Outdoor Products
- Summerset Grills
- Lynx Grills
- Blaze Outdoor Products
- Le Panyol
- Earthstone Ovens
- Necessories (by Rockwood)
- Wood Stone Corporation
- Fuego Living
- Clementi
- Ardore (by Pizza Party)
- Igneus
- Etna Ovens
- Fire Magic
- Weber (with their pizza oven attachment for grills)
While this list includes many well-known outdoor pizza oven brands, it is important to note that new brands and products continue to emerge as the market expands.
Outdoor Pizza Oven Maitenance
Proper maintenance of your outdoor pizza oven is crucial to ensure its longevity, performance, and safety. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your pizza oven in optimal condition for years to come. Here are some key tips on how to maintain your outdoor pizza oven:
1. Regular Cleaning
After each use, it’s important to clean your pizza oven to remove ash, debris, and any food remnants. Allow the oven to cool down before cleaning to avoid the risk of burns. Use a long-handled brush or scraper to remove any residue from the cooking surface, and sweep out the ash and debris from the oven’s interior.
2. Ash Removal
Accumulated ash can hinder your oven’s performance and affect the flavor of your food. Regularly remove ash from the oven, especially if you use it frequently. Use a metal ash shovel or vacuum cleaner designed for high temperatures to remove ash safely and efficiently.
3. Chimney and Flue Care
For wood-fired ovens, it’s essential to inspect and clean the chimney and flue regularly to prevent creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard. Schedule a professional chimney cleaning at least once a year, or more often if you use the oven heavily.
4. Inspecting the Oven Door and Seals
Examine the oven door and seals periodically for any signs of wear or damage. A properly functioning door and seals help maintain temperature control and prevent heat loss. Replace worn or damaged seals as needed to maintain optimal oven performance.
5. Oven Exterior Maintenance
Regularly inspect the exterior of your pizza oven for signs of wear, rust, or damage. For metal or stainless steel ovens, use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the surface. Touch up any scratches or chips with high-temperature paint to prevent rust and corrosion.
For brick, clay, or masonry ovens, check for cracks or other structural issues. Small cracks can be patched with refractory cement, while larger issues may require professional repair.
6. Weather Protection
Outdoor pizza ovens can be vulnerable to weather-related damage, especially in areas with harsh climates. Use a weather-resistant cover to protect your oven from rain, snow, and UV rays when not in use. If you live in a particularly cold or wet region, consider installing a waterproof shelter or awning to provide additional protection.
7. Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect your pizza oven for any signs of wear or damage, including the cooking surface, interior, and exterior. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain optimal performance.
Our Top 5 Recipe Books for Outdoor Pizza Oven Enthusiasts
A great recipe book can elevate your outdoor pizza oven experience by providing delicious recipes, cooking techniques, and tips for perfecting your wood-fired creations. Here is a curated list of the top 5 recipe books that cater specifically to outdoor pizza oven enthusiasts:
1. The Elements of Pizza: Unlocking the Secrets to World-Class Pies at Home by Ken Forkish
This comprehensive guide by renowned pizza expert Ken Forkish offers in-depth knowledge on various pizza styles, dough recipes, and techniques for creating the perfect pie. The book also features wood-fired oven instructions and recipes, making it an ideal companion for outdoor pizza oven owners.
2. The Pizza Bible: The World’s Favorite Pizza Styles, from Neapolitan, Deep-Dish, Wood-Fired, Sicilian, Calzones and Focaccia to New York, New Haven, Detroit, and More by Tony Gemignani
Written by 13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani, The Pizza Bible is an authoritative guide to various pizza styles, including wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. The book offers detailed instructions and recipes, accompanied by step-by-step photographs, making it an essential resource for pizza enthusiasts.
3. Mastering Pizza: The Art and Practice of Handmade Pizza, Focaccia, and Calzone by Marc Vetri and David Joachim
In Mastering Pizza, award-winning chef Marc Vetri shares his expert knowledge on crafting the perfect pizza dough and offers over 100 innovative recipes for wood-fired pizzas, focaccia, and calzones. This book is a valuable resource for those looking to take their outdoor pizza oven cooking to the next level.
4. My Pizza: The Easy No-Knead Way to Make Spectacular Pizza at Home by Jim Lahey
My Pizza presents a revolutionary no-knead dough recipe that simplifies the pizza-making process without compromising on quality. Author Jim Lahey shares various pizza recipes, including wood-fired oven options, making it a must-have book for outdoor pizza oven owners looking for a simplified approach to crafting delicious pizzas.
5. Truly Madly Pizza: One Incredibly Easy Crust, Countless Inspired Combinations & Other Tidbits to Make Pizza a Nightly Affair by Suzanne Lenzer
Truly Madly Pizza offers a fresh take on homemade pizza, with a focus on creative toppings and combinations. The book includes a versatile, easy-to-make crust recipe and provides cooking instructions for both conventional ovens and wood-fired pizza ovens, making it a versatile addition to any pizza lover’s collection.
These top-rated recipe books provide invaluable guidance and inspiration for anyone with an outdoor pizza oven. By exploring various styles, techniques, and ingredients, you can expand your culinary repertoire and impress your family and friends with your wood-fired pizza creations.
