Which Ooni Pizza Oven To Buy?
*For most home cooks looking for a fantastic balance of *performance, portability, and price, the Ooni Karu 12G emerges as the best overall choice; however, your specific needs (fuel type preference, budget, cooking volume) will ultimately dictate the optimal Ooni oven for you.
Ooni: Revolutionizing Home Pizza
Ooni revolutionized home pizza-making by bringing high-temperature, wood-fired flavor to backyards worldwide. Before Ooni, achieving true Neapolitan-style pizza at home required expensive and bulky brick ovens. Ooni democratized this experience, offering a range of portable and relatively affordable ovens capable of reaching temperatures exceeding 900°F (480°C). This intense heat allows for quick cooking times (often under 90 seconds), creating the signature charred crust and perfectly melted toppings associated with authentic Italian pizza.
Understanding Your Pizza Needs
Choosing the right Ooni pizza oven starts with understanding your cooking habits and preferences. Ask yourself these crucial questions:
- Fuel Type: Do you prefer the authentic wood-fired flavor, the convenience of gas, or the flexibility of a multi-fuel option?
- Budget: Ooni ovens range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Setting a budget beforehand will narrow down your options.
- Portability: Will you primarily use the oven at home, or do you need a model that’s easy to transport for camping or tailgating?
- Cooking Volume: How many pizzas do you typically make in a session? A larger oven allows for faster throughput.
- Space: Do you have ample outdoor space, or are you working with a smaller patio or balcony?
The Ooni Oven Lineup: A Quick Overview
Ooni offers a diverse range of pizza ovens, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a brief overview of some popular models:
- Ooni Karu 12G: A multi-fuel oven (wood, charcoal, gas) known for its versatility, heat retention, and easy-to-read thermometer.
- Ooni Karu 16: A larger multi-fuel oven that can cook up to 16-inch pizzas and features a built-in digital thermometer.
- Ooni Koda 12: A gas-powered oven that’s compact, portable, and easy to use.
- Ooni Koda 16: A larger gas-powered oven that can cook up to 16-inch pizzas and features a wider cooking area.
- Ooni Volt 12: An electric indoor/outdoor oven with precise temperature control and consistent results.
Comparing Key Ooni Models
Here’s a table comparing the key features of popular Ooni models:
| Feature | Ooni Karu 12G | Ooni Karu 16 | Ooni Koda 12 | Ooni Koda 16 | Ooni Volt 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Wood, Charcoal, Gas | Wood, Charcoal, Gas | Gas | Gas | Electric |
| Pizza Size | 12 inches | 16 inches | 12 inches | 16 inches | 12 inches |
| Portability | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Low |
| Heat-Up Time | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 20 minutes |
| Temperature | Up to 950°F | Up to 950°F | Up to 950°F | Up to 950°F | Up to 850°F |
| Price (Approx.) | $499 | $799 | $399 | $599 | $999 |
Benefits of Each Fuel Type
- Wood: Offers the most authentic wood-fired flavor, requiring more skill and attention. Adds a smoky taste.
- Charcoal: Provides a good compromise between wood flavor and convenience, offering longer burn times.
- Gas: The easiest fuel type to use, providing precise temperature control and consistent results. Ideal for beginners.
- Electric: Offers ultimate convenience and consistent temperature, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Too Much Fuel: Overloading the oven can lead to excessive smoke and uneven cooking.
- Not Preheating Properly: Preheating is crucial for achieving high temperatures and proper crust development.
- Ignoring Pizza Dough Hydration: Using a dough that’s too dry or too wet will affect the final result.
- Overloading the Pizza: Too many toppings can prevent the pizza from cooking evenly.
- Not Rotating the Pizza: Rotating the pizza ensures even cooking on all sides.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Every Time
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The best pizza starts with the best ingredients.
- Experiment with Different Dough Recipes: Find a dough recipe that suits your taste and cooking style.
- Master the Launch: Practice launching the pizza onto the hot stone to avoid sticking.
- Invest in a Pizza Peel: A good pizza peel is essential for launching and retrieving pizzas.
- Clean Your Ooni Regularly: Cleaning the oven after each use will prolong its lifespan and maintain performance.
FAQ: Can I use my Ooni indoors?
No, most Ooni ovens are designed for outdoor use only. The Ooni Volt 12 is the exception, as it is an electric model specifically designed for both indoor and outdoor cooking. Using a gas or wood-fired Ooni indoors can create a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide.
FAQ: How long does it take to cook a pizza in an Ooni?
Typically, it takes 60-90 seconds to cook a pizza in an Ooni oven at its optimal temperature (around 900°F/480°C). However, cooking times can vary depending on the dough, toppings, and oven model.
FAQ: What type of wood should I use in my Ooni?
Use kiln-dried hardwood such as oak, maple, or birch. Avoid using softwoods like pine, as they produce more smoke and creosote. You can also use wood pellets specifically designed for pizza ovens.
FAQ: Can I use my Ooni in the rain?
It’s best to avoid using your Ooni in the rain. The rain can damage the oven and affect its performance. If you must use it in wet conditions, use a cover to protect it from the elements.
FAQ: How do I clean my Ooni pizza oven?
After each use, allow the oven to cool completely. Scrape off any excess food debris with a pizza peel or scraper. For stubborn stains, use a wire brush. You can also clean the pizza stone with a damp cloth.
FAQ: What’s the difference between the Ooni Koda 12 and Koda 16?
The main difference is size. The Ooni Koda 16 can cook pizzas up to 16 inches in diameter, while the Ooni Koda 12 is limited to 12-inch pizzas. The Koda 16 also has a wider cooking area and a L-shaped burner for more even heat distribution.
FAQ: Is the Ooni gas burner attachment worth it?
If you value convenience and precise temperature control, the gas burner attachment is definitely worth it. It allows you to easily switch between gas and wood/charcoal, giving you more flexibility in your cooking.
FAQ: How do I prevent my pizza from sticking to the peel?
Use plenty of flour or semolina on the pizza peel to prevent sticking. Ensure the peel is clean and dry before launching the pizza. A quick shake of the peel before launching can also help.
FAQ: Can I cook other things besides pizza in my Ooni?
Yes, you can cook a variety of dishes in your Ooni, including roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and baked bread. The high heat of the oven makes it ideal for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly cooked ingredients.
FAQ: How long will an Ooni pizza oven last?
With proper care and maintenance, an Ooni pizza oven can last for many years. Regularly cleaning the oven and protecting it from the elements will prolong its lifespan.
FAQ: What accessories do I need for my Ooni?
Essential accessories include a pizza peel, pizza cutter, infrared thermometer, and a cover for the oven. You may also want to consider a gas burner attachment (if you have a multi-fuel oven) and a cleaning brush.
FAQ: Where is the best place to buy an Ooni pizza oven?
Ooni pizza ovens are available directly from the Ooni website, as well as from many major retailers such as Amazon, Williams Sonoma, and Best Buy. Check for sales and promotions to get the best price.