If you love pizza, you’ll know how satisfying it is when you get that perfect slice – with a perfectly light and crunchy crust, bubbly melted cheese, and loads of your favorite toppings.
However, getting it just right can be tricky, especially when it comes to cooking the perfect pizza in a conventional or convection oven. Understanding the difference between the two, learning the best strategies for prepping and baking, and knowing what types of ovens to avoid can help you cook like a pro.
There are endless styles of pizza, from traditional Margherita to creative gourmet options, and each requires different cooking methods. Whether you’re looking to make amazing pizza at home or find the best pizza spot in town, learning how to make the perfect pizza is essential. Use this guide to gain the edge you need to cook amazing pizza every time.
Understanding the Difference Between Conventional and Convection Ovens
When it comes to pizza, conventional and convection ovens each have their pros and cons, so which one should you use? A conventional oven works by heating the air inside using an element, meaning it takes longer for the air to heat up and to cool down than with a convection oven. On the other hand, a convection oven works by using fans to circulate the hot air, allowing all the surfaces to heat up evenly and reducing cooking times. This makes it ideal for cooking pizza.
When deciding which type of oven is best for cooking pizza, consider the size and shape of your pizza as well as the type of crust you’re using (e.g., thin crust, thick crust, etc.). For a thin crust pizza, a conventional oven is often the best choice. The hot air created by the element helps the pizza to cook quickly and evenly, while resulting in a crispy base and bubbly cheese. With a thicker crust however, it’s best to opt for a convection oven. The fan ensures that the heat is distributed evenly over the surface, ensuring the pizza cooks all the way through without burning.
Best Ways to Cook Pizza in an Oven to Get the Perfect Crust
Cooking the perfect pizza starts with prepping the dough. To get that perfect crust, knead the dough for 10 minutes and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This gives it time to rise, resulting in a crispier crust. To maximize crunchiness, develop a slow fermentation by letting the dough rest in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
Once the dough is ready, preheat the oven to 550F (287C) before rolling out the dough. For even cooking, preheat a baking stone or baking sheet in the oven. For extra crunchiness, you can also mist the surface of the pizza dough with a little olive oil before adding the toppings. Then top the pizza with your favorite ingredients, making sure you don’t overload it as this will prevent the pizza from cooking properly. And be sure to leave some air around the crust for crunchiness
When it comes to cooking, pizza should be cooked as quickly as possible. To do this, place the pizza as close as you can to the top of the oven. If the oven is too hot, place the pizza on the lower shelf for the first few minutes, then move it to the top shelf to finish cooking.
Tips to Ensure Your Pizza Is Cooked to Perfection Every Time
Before putting the pizza in the oven, it’s important to check that the temperature is right. A conventional oven should be at least 550F (287C) while a convection oven should be around 475F (246C). This will ensure that the pizza cooks evenly and quickly, resulting in a perfectly crunchy base and bubbly cheese.
Once the pizza is in the oven, watch it closely. The pizza should be ready in 10 to 15 minutes. Check the pizza every 5 minutes to ensure it’s not over or undercooked. High-moisture toppings, like mushrooms, can prevent the pizza from cooking properly, so be sure to drain or pat them dry before adding them to the pizza.
If you love a classic Pizza Margherita, baking the pizza in a wood-fired oven is the best way to get it right. Wood-fired ovens create intense heat and a smoky flavor, adding a traditional Italian charm to the pizza. However, for a restaurant-style pizza, a conventional or convection oven is the way to go. The intense heat ensures that the pizza is cooked quickly, resulting in a perfectly crusty base and bubbly melted cheese.
Finding the Best Pizzerias and Restaurants in Your Area
If you’re looking to try some of the best pizza in your area, there are few things to consider. For starters, it’s worth researching local restaurants online and looking for reviews. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also invaluable, so ask friends and family for advice. It’s also worth looking for traditional Italian restaurants in your area, as they often make amazing pizzas.
When it comes to finding the perfect pizzeria, it pays to be choosy. Look out for places that use high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques – fresh dough, local flour and Italian tomatoes are all great signs.
Check whether they offer different crust options like thin or thick and toppings like anchovies or artichokes. It’s also worth asking how long they bake the pizzas – longer baking times can help the pizza to achieve a more crisp and bubbly crust.
Finally, remember that the best pizzerias are often family-run and traditional, so don’t overlook these gems.
Conclusion
Pizza is one of the world’s most beloved and versatile dishes, and making it can be surprisingly easy and rewarding. With the right oven and some preparation, you can make a deliciously crunchy and cheesy pizza.
Understand the differences between conventional and convection ovens, learn the best ways to prepare the dough, and be sure to select the highest-quality ingredients to make the perfect pizza.
And finally, don’t forget to ask around and visit local restaurants and pizzerias to find amazing and unique pizzas. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to know the secrets to creating a mouthwatering pizza every time.
