How to use
Instructions for Using a Pizza Peel and Pizza Turner Fork
Create perfect pizzas every time by using the pizza peel and pizza fork in tandem. This guide will walk you through the steps to place your pizza in the oven, turn it for even cooking, and retrieve it once it's cooked to perfection.
Step 1: Transferring the Pizza to the Oven with the Pizza Peel
Prepping the Peel:
Warm the Peel: If the peel is cold, warm it slightly under hot water to prevent condensation and moisture, which can cause sticking.
Handling the Dough:
Proper Proofing of Dough: If pizza dough is not properly proofed, it can be too sticky and difficult to handle. Ensure you follow best practices for preparing dough, which include allowing adequate rising time according to room temperature and using quality ingredients. Adjust proofing times based on your kitchen's temperature: warmer environments may require shorter proofing periods, while cooler settings might need longer. Properly proofed dough will be elastic and less sticky, making it easier to shape and bake.
Dough Temperature: Make sure your dough is at room temperature for less condensation and moisture.
Prepare on the Counter: Stretch and shape your pizza dough on a floured countertop, not directly on the peel. This minimizes the time the dough spends on the peel, reducing the chance of sticking despite the nonstick coating.
Dusting: Lightly dust the peel with a semolina.
Add Sauce and Toppings: After shaping the dough, spread the sauce evenly, followed by cheese and other toppings. Be mindful not to overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can make it difficult to transfer and cook evenly.
Transferring to the Oven:
Use a Swift Motion: Slide the pizza into the oven with a quick, smooth motion to prevent the dough from catching on the edge of the peel. Practice with a dish towel on the peel to get the hang of this motion.
Shaking: Shake the peel gently to ensure the dough is not sticking. If it starts to stick, lift the dough and add more flour or semolina underneath.
Step 2: Turning the Pizza with the Pizza Fork
To ensure even cooking, use the pizza fork to rotate the pizza during baking:
Observe the pizza for any uneven browning. If present, rotate the pizza to achieve even heat distribution.
Hold the pizza fork by the handle and gently pierce the outer edge of the pizza, being careful not to puncture it too deeply.
Lift the pizza slightly with the fork and rotate it 180 degrees using the handle.
Lower the pizza back onto the oven surface carefully and remove the fork.
Step 3: Popping the Bubbles
To pop the bubbles using a pizza turner fork, gently press the tines of the fork into the bubbles on the pizza crust. Be cautious not to tear the crust; just apply enough pressure to release the trapped air. This will help ensure an even and crispy texture across the pizza.
Step 4: Retrieving the Pizza from the Oven with the Pizza Peel
Use the peel to remove the pizza from the oven by sliding it underneath the cooked crust and lifting it out in one smooth motion.
By using the pizza peel and pizza fork together, you can ensure that your pizza is evenly cooked and effortlessly transferred in and out of the open pizza oven. Enjoy your perfectly prepared pizza every time.
Instructions for Using a Pizza Oven Brush
Preparing the Oven for Cleaning
Preheat the oven to burn off any remaining food particles.
Allow the oven to cool.
Rotate the pizza stone inside the oven to ensure all sides are exposed to heat, which will help burn off any residue.
Preheat the oven again to burn off any remaining food particles on the other side of the stone.
Cleaning the Oven with the Oven Brush
Use the oven brush to clean your pizza oven once it has been preheated and the stone has been rotated.
Allow the oven to cool
Inspect Before Each Use: Carefully inspect the bristles and scraper for any damage or excessive wear before each use. If you notice any loose or damaged bristles, discontinue use and replace the brush immediately to avoid potential injury or damage to the pizza stone.
Hold the oven brush by its handle and carefully reach into the oven.
Gently scrub the oven walls and the surface of the pizza stone, removing any leftover debris.
Dispose of the collected debris in a heat-proof container.
Check After Each Use: Always check the pizza stone and oven for any loose bristles after each use. If you find any bristles, stop using the brush immediately. Bristles can get into the food and cause serious injury.
Instructions for Using a Pizza Cutter Rocker
Position the Pizza:
Place your pizza on a flat, stable surface, such as a cutting board or a pizza stone.
Center the Rocker:
Position the center of the curved blade at the midpoint of the pizza. This helps to ensure evenly cut slices.
Grip the Handles:
Hold the handles firmly with both hands. Ensure your grip is comfortable and secure to maintain control while cutting.
Rocking Motion:
Apply downward pressure and rock the blade back and forth across the pizza. Start from the center and move towards the edges in a smooth, continuous motion.
Rotate and Repeat:
Rotate the pizza 90 degrees and repeat the rocking motion to create cross cuts. Continue this process until you achieve the desired number of slices.
Instructions for Using a Pizza Dough Scraper
Handling Dough: Use the dough scraper to handle sticky, high-hydration doughs. It prevents the dough from sticking to your hands and the work surface, making it easier to manipulate.
Cutting and Portioning: Utilize the scraper's straight edge to cut and portion your dough. This is especially useful for creating evenly sized dough balls without scratching your countertop.
Releasing Dough Balls: After the second rise, sprinkle a little flour around the dough balls in the rising box. Use the scraper to separate the dough from the edges and lift it out without deforming the balls.
Instructions for Using a Pizza Dough Roller
Prepare the Dough: Ensure your pizza dough is properly proofed. This makes it easier to roll out.
Flour the Surface: Lightly dust your work surface and the dough with flour to prevent sticking. You can also dust the rolling pin.
Flatten the Dough: Start by flattening the dough into a disk shape with your hands. This initial shaping helps guide the rolling process.
Rolling Technique:
Use the roller from the center outwards. Rotate the dough frequently to maintain an even thickness.
Apply even pressure while rolling to avoid tearing the dough.
Continue rolling until the dough reaches your desired thickness, typically around a quarter of an inch.
Handling the Dough: If using a pizza peel, ensure the dough is evenly rolled and not too thin, making it easier to transfer to the oven without tearing.