The Bertello Pizza Oven is a versatile and efficient wood-burning stove that can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this article provides clear and concise instructions on how to use the Bertello Pizza Oven to create delicious homemade pizzas.
Getting Started
1. Location: Choose a suitable outdoor location for your Bertello Pizza Oven. Ensure it’s on a stable, non-flammable surface, away from any flammable materials or structures.
2. Assembly: If your Bertello Pizza Oven requires assembly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to put it together. This is typically a straightforward process.
3. Wood Selection: Use hardwood logs, such as oak, maple, or hickory, for the best results. Avoid softwood, as it can produce excessive smoke and impart undesirable flavors to your pizza.
Lighting the Oven
1. Prepare the Firebox: Load a few small pieces of hardwood into the firebox of the Bertello Pizza Oven. This will serve as the initial fuel source to get the fire started.
2. Kindling: Place kindling, such as newspaper or small dry twigs, on top of the wood in the firebox. Ensure there’s sufficient airflow around the kindling for it to catch fire easily.
3. Ignition: Light the kindling using a long lighter or matches. The fire should ignite and begin to heat the oven.
4. Add More Wood: As the fire grows, add larger hardwood logs to maintain a steady flame. Gradually build up the fire to generate the high temperatures needed for cooking pizza.
Preparing Your Pizza
1. Pizza Dough: Roll out your pizza dough and prepare your favorite toppings. Keep them nearby for quick assembly.
2. Pizza Peel: Dust your pizza peel (a wooden or metal tool for sliding pizzas in and out of the oven) with a bit of flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
3. Oven Temperature: The Bertello Pizza Oven can reach temperatures over 800°F (427°C). For traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, this high heat is ideal. Place your pizza stone or baking sheet inside the oven to heat up.
4. Assembly: Place your pizza dough on the peel and add your desired sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Cooking Your Pizza
1. Slide In the Pizza: Carefully slide your prepared pizza from the peel onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet inside the Bertello Pizza Oven.
2. Rotation: Keep a close eye on your pizza, as it will cook very quickly at high temperatures. Use the pizza peel to rotate the pizza periodically for even cooking.
3. Remove and Serve: Once your pizza crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, use the pizza peel to remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a minute, slice, and enjoy your wood-fired pizza!
Safety and Cleanup
- Always exercise caution when working with open flames and high heat. Keep children and pets away from the oven during use.
- After cooking, allow the Bertello Pizza Oven to cool down. Remove ashes and charred wood from the firebox and dispose of them safely.
In conclusion, the Bertello Pizza Oven offers an excellent way to create authentic wood-fired pizza at home. With the right wood selection, proper lighting, and careful cooking, you can enjoy delicious, crispy, and flavorful pizzas in your outdoor space. Remember to follow safety precautions and have fun experimenting with different pizza recipes in your new oven.