Tips for starting a wood fired pizza oven using wheelie good wood

Starting a pizza fire oven can be a rewarding culinary experience, but it requires proper preparation and attention to safety. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the Right Wood: Use well-seasoned hardwood, such as our iron bark or redgum. Avoid using softwoods or treated woods, as they can release harmful chemicals when burned.

2. Prepare the Oven: Make sure the oven is clean and free of debris from previous use. Clear out any ash or remnants from previous fires.

3. Build a Proper Fire: Create a small fire using newspaper, kindling, and small pieces of wood. Gradually add larger pieces of wood as the fire grows. Arrange the wood in a way that promotes proper airflow for efficient combustion.

4. Allow the Fire to Burn: Let the fire burn for about 1 to 2 hours, or until you have a good bed of hot coals. This helps heat the oven's walls and floor evenly.

5. Monitor the Temperature: Use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of the oven walls and floor. The ideal pizza-cooking temperature is around 750°F to 800°F (400°C to 425°C). The oven's interior should be well-heated, and the floor should be hot enough to cook the pizza quickly.

6. Spread the Coals: Once the fire has burned down and you have a bed of hot coals, use a rake or shovel to spread the coals evenly across the oven floor. This helps create an even cooking surface and radiant heat.

7. Let the Oven Stabilize: Allow the oven's temperature to stabilize for about 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This ensures consistent cooking conditions.

8. Use a Pizza Peel: Dust your pizza peel (a large, flat paddle) with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking. Build your pizza directly on the peel before sliding it into the oven.

9. Rotate the Pizza: Use a long-handled peel or tongs to rotate the pizza periodically for even cooking. The intense heat of the oven will cook the pizza quickly, usually in just a few minutes.

10. Monitor and Adjust: Keep a close eye on the pizza while it's cooking. The high temperatures can cause it to cook faster than you might expect. Be ready to remove the pizza when the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Practice: It may take some practice to perfect your technique. Experiment with different dough recipes, toppings, and cooking times to achieve your desired results.

12. Safety First: Always prioritize safety when using a wood-fired oven. Keep a fire extinguisher, a bucket of water, or a hose nearby in case of emergencies. Use heat-resistant gloves and appropriate tools to handle hot surfaces.

Remember that starting and using a wood-fired pizza oven requires careful attention to safety and proper technique. With practice and patience, you can create delicious and authentic pizzas right in your own backyard.