The Advantage of Cooking Pizza in a Brick Oven: A Guide

Pizza is one of the most loved foods worldwide, with its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and delicious toppings. However, not all pizzas are created equal. One key factor that can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of a pizza is the method of cooking. While there are various ways to cook a pizza, cooking it in a brick oven is considered to be the best. In this article, we will explore the reasons why cooking pizza in a brick oven is better than other methods.

History of Stone Oven Baked Pizza

The history of stone oven-baked pizza dates back to ancient times, when people used to cook their food in outdoor ovens made of clay or stone. These ovens were heated with firewood and the heat was retained by the structure of the oven. The first recorded use of brick ovens for baking pizza was in Naples, Italy in the late 1800s. The Neapolitan pizza, which is considered to be the original pizza, was cooked in a wood-fired brick oven and had a thin, crispy crust with a slightly chewy texture.

Benefits of Brick Oven Cooking

1. High Heat

Brick ovens are designed to reach high temperatures of up to 900°F (482°C), which is much higher than a conventional oven. This high heat allows the pizza to cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.

2. Retains Moisture

The brick walls of the oven absorb and radiate heat evenly, creating a moist cooking environment. This helps to retain the moisture in the pizza, preventing it from drying out and becoming tough.

3. Unique Flavor

Brick oven cooking adds a unique flavour to the pizza that cannot be replicated with other cooking methods. The wood-fired brick oven imparts a smoky, charred flavour to the pizza, which is highly sought after by pizza lovers.

4. Faster Cooking Time

Because of the high heat and even cooking environment, a pizza can be cooked in a brick oven in as little as 90 seconds. This makes it ideal for busy pizzerias that need to produce large quantities of pizza quickly.

Five Secrets to Cooking the Perfect Brick Oven Pizza Pie

1. High-Quality Ingredients

The key to great brick oven pizza is to start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, locally sourced produce, high-grade cheeses, and quality meats are essential for creating a delicious pizza.

2. Proper Dough Preparation

The dough is the foundation of any pizza, and it must be prepared correctly for the best results. A good dough should be made from high-quality flour, water, yeast, and salt, and allowed to rest for a minimum of 24 hours.

3. Perfect Temperature

The temperature of the brick oven is critical for achieving the perfect pizza. The oven should be heated to at least 700°F to create the perfect crispy crust and melted cheese.

4. Constant Rotation

To ensure that the pizza is cooked evenly, it must be rotated frequently. This not only ensures that the pizza is cooked evenly but also allows for the smoky, charred flavour that is unique to brick oven pizza.

5. Attention to Detail

The final secret to great brick oven pizza is attention to detail. From the quality of the ingredients to the temperature of the oven, every detail must be carefully considered to create the perfect pizza.

Conclusion

Cooking pizza in a brick oven is undoubtedly the superior method for several reasons. Firstly, the high temperature and even heat distribution allow for a perfectly crispy crust and evenly melted cheese. The natural properties of the brick also provide a unique flavour to the pizza, enhancing the taste and texture. 

Brick ovens also have the advantage of being able to accommodate larger pizzas, making them an ideal choice for families or gatherings. Additionally, the traditional and rustic aesthetic of a brick oven adds to the overall experience of enjoying a delicious homemade pizza. Overall, cooking pizza in a brick oven is a delightful and unmatched experience that is worth trying for any pizza lover.

If you are looking for a good pizza restaurant to try on your next pizza night, come to Pizza Garden. We serve hand-crafted, artisan, stone oven-baked, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. Use our contactless delivery service today.