Cooking pizza outside is an art that requires the right combination of ingredients, equipment, and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, this article will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to create delicious pizzas in the great outdoors.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Before you start cooking, you’ll need to choose the right equipment for the job. There are several options available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Outdoor pizza ovens are a popular choice for cooking pizzas outside. These ovens are specifically designed for outdoor use and can reach high temperatures quickly, allowing you to cook pizzas in just a few minutes. They’re available in a range of styles and sizes, from small, portable models to large, permanent installations.
Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovens
There are several types of outdoor pizza ovens available, including:
- Wood-fired ovens: These ovens use wood as a fuel source and can create a unique, smoky flavor.
- Gas-fired ovens: These ovens use gas as a fuel source and are often more convenient to use than wood-fired models.
- Pellet-fired ovens: These ovens use compressed wood pellets as a fuel source and are a popular choice for those looking for a more sustainable option.
Grills and Grill Tops
If you don’t have access to an outdoor pizza oven, you can still cook delicious pizzas outside using a grill or grill top. These options are often more affordable than outdoor pizza ovens and can be used to cook a wide range of foods, not just pizzas.
Types of Grills and Grill Tops
There are several types of grills and grill tops available, including:
- Gas grills: These grills use gas as a fuel source and are often more convenient to use than charcoal models.
- Charcoal grills: These grills use charcoal as a fuel source and can create a unique, smoky flavor.
- Grill tops: These are flat, heat-diffusing surfaces that can be placed on top of a grill to create a pizza-cooking surface.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Once you have your equipment, it’s time to start preparing your ingredients. This includes your dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Making Your Dough
Making your own dough from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of warm water
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
- 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is activated and foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix the dough until it comes together in a sticky ball.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing Your Sauce
While you can use store-bought sauce, making your own from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix the sauce until it’s smooth and well combined.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Choosing Your Cheese and Toppings
The type of cheese and toppings you choose will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular options include:
- Mozzarella cheese: This is a classic choice for pizzas and can be used on its own or in combination with other cheeses.
- Parmesan cheese: This is a hard, aged cheese that can be used to add a salty, nutty flavor to your pizzas.
- Pepperoni: This is a classic topping that can be used on its own or in combination with other toppings.
- Vegetables: These can include a wide range of options, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.
Cooking Your Pizza
Once you have your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking your pizza. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
Preheating Your Oven or Grill
Before you start cooking, make sure your oven or grill is preheated to the right temperature. This will help ensure that your pizza cooks evenly and quickly.
Temperature Guidelines
Here are some general temperature guidelines to keep in mind:
- Outdoor pizza ovens: 500-600°F (260-315°C)
- Grills: 400-500°F (200-260°C)
Shaping Your Dough
Once your oven or grill is preheated, it’s time to shape your dough. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your dough is at room temperature before you start shaping it. This will help it stretch and shape more easily.
- Use a lightly floured surface to shape your dough. This will help prevent it from sticking and make it easier to shape.
- Use a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper to transfer your dough to the oven or grill. This will help prevent it from sticking and make it easier to cook.
Adding Your Toppings
Once your dough is shaped, it’s time to add your toppings. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your toppings are evenly distributed across the surface of the pizza. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and quickly.
- Use a moderate amount of toppings. Too many toppings can make the crust soggy and difficult to cook.
- Consider using a layer of cheese on top of your toppings. This will help bind them together and create a creamy, melted texture.
Cooking Your Pizza
Once your toppings are added, it’s time to cook your pizza. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Cook your pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked through.
- Use a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper to rotate your pizza halfway through the cooking time. This will help ensure that it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Consider using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your pizza. This will help ensure that it’s cooked to a safe temperature.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to keep in mind:
Using a Pizza Stone
A pizza stone can be a great addition to your outdoor pizza-cooking setup. It can help to distribute heat evenly and create a crispy, well-cooked crust.
How to Use a Pizza Stone
Here are some general tips for using a pizza stone:
- Preheat your stone in the oven or grill for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help it reach the right temperature and create a crispy crust.
- Dust your stone with cornmeal or semolina flour before cooking. This will help prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to cook.
- Use a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper to transfer your dough to the stone. This will help prevent it from sticking and make it easier to cook.
Trying New Toppings and Combinations
One of the best things about cooking pizzas outside is the ability to try new toppings and combinations. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Fig and prosciutto: This is a classic combination that pairs sweet, caramelized figs with salty, crispy prosciutto.
Conclusion
Cooking pizza outside can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with the right equipment and ingredients, you can create delicious pizzas that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, we hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and skills you need to get started. Happy cooking!
What are the benefits of cooking pizza outside?
Cooking pizza outside offers several benefits, including the ability to achieve a crispy crust and smoky flavor that is difficult to replicate indoors. Outdoor pizza cooking also allows for a more social and interactive experience, as guests can gather around the cooking area and watch their pizzas being made.
Additionally, cooking pizza outside can be a fun and unique way to entertain guests, and can be a great way to add some variety to your outdoor cooking routine. With the right equipment and techniques, outdoor pizza cooking can be a rewarding and delicious experience.
What type of outdoor pizza oven is best for me?
The type of outdoor pizza oven that is best for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a portable and affordable option, a gas-fired pizza oven may be a good choice. These ovens are relatively small and lightweight, making them easy to move around and store.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more permanent and high-end option, a wood-fired pizza oven may be a better fit. These ovens are often larger and more expensive, but they offer a unique and authentic cooking experience that is hard to replicate with other types of ovens.
How do I prepare my outdoor pizza oven for cooking?
Before cooking, it’s essential to preheat your outdoor pizza oven to the right temperature. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the type of oven and the temperature you are aiming for. Once the oven is preheated, you can start preparing your pizzas by shaping the dough, adding toppings, and sliding them into the oven.
It’s also important to make sure your oven is clean and well-maintained before cooking. This includes cleaning the cooking surface, checking the temperature, and ensuring that the oven is properly ventilated. By taking the time to prepare your oven, you can ensure that your pizzas turn out perfectly cooked and delicious.
What type of pizza dough is best for outdoor cooking?
When it comes to outdoor pizza cooking, it’s best to use a dough that is specifically designed for high-temperature cooking. This type of dough is often made with a high-protein flour and a small amount of yeast, which helps it to cook quickly and evenly.
You can either make your own dough from scratch or purchase a pre-made dough from a store. If you’re new to outdoor pizza cooking, it may be helpful to start with a pre-made dough and then experiment with making your own once you gain more experience.
How do I achieve a crispy crust when cooking pizza outside?
Achieving a crispy crust is one of the most challenging aspects of outdoor pizza cooking. To get a crispy crust, it’s essential to cook your pizza at a high temperature (usually between 500-700°F) for a short amount of time (usually 2-3 minutes). You can also try using a pizza stone or baking steel to help absorb moisture and distribute heat evenly.
Another key factor in achieving a crispy crust is to make sure your dough is properly shaped and topped. This includes using the right amount of sauce and toppings, and making sure the dough is evenly stretched and shaped. By following these tips, you can achieve a crispy and delicious crust that will elevate your outdoor pizzas to the next level.
Can I cook other types of food in my outdoor pizza oven?
While pizza is the most obvious choice for outdoor pizza ovens, you can also cook a variety of other foods in these ovens. Some popular options include bread, vegetables, meats, and even desserts. The key is to experiment with different temperatures and cooking times to find what works best for each type of food.
One of the benefits of outdoor pizza ovens is that they can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, from slow-cooking stews and braises to quickly searing steaks and vegetables. By experimenting with different types of food and cooking techniques, you can get the most out of your outdoor pizza oven and enjoy a wide range of delicious meals.
How do I clean and maintain my outdoor pizza oven?
Cleaning and maintaining your outdoor pizza oven is essential to ensure it continues to perform well and lasts for a long time. After each use, make sure to clean the cooking surface and remove any food debris. You can use a brush or scraper to remove stubborn stains and grime.
Regular maintenance is also important to prevent rust and damage to the oven. This includes applying a rust-inhibiting coating to the exterior of the oven, and checking the temperature and ventilation systems to ensure they are working properly. By taking the time to clean and maintain your oven, you can ensure it continues to perform well and provide you with delicious pizzas for years to come.