Are you ready to start experimenting with your pizza oven and go beyond the world of pizza? I mean, pizza is amazing, but why stop there? Depending on the size of your pizza oven, your cooking possibilities are endless!
Do you know that a wood-burning pizza oven does more than bake? A wood-fired oven is so versatile that you could roast vegetables, grill meats, create divine desserts and even barbecue seafood.
As a beginner, you may think that cooking with a wood-fired traditional pizza oven or even a portable pizza oven may be intimidating at first. How about trying simple recipes to begin?
Here is a sample list of some super easy foods to try to get started:
1) Easy No-Knead Bread
A no-knead bread always tops the list of most straightforward recipes. The ingredients are few and readily available in most kitchens. While dry yeast is commonly used, try a wild sourdough starter instead. The result is simply incredible. The ordinary dry yeast will still make an ideal bread if a sourdough starter is not on hand.
The nice thing about this dish is there is not much kneading done. There may be some, but not that much.
2) Wood-fired Fish
Roasting a whole fish or even filets is another great wood-fired pizza oven recipe idea not to miss. By simply seasoning the cavity with salt and pepper together with a flavorful blend of fresh thyme, garlic herbs, and lemon pieces, you are up to one of the tastiest and healthiest dishes done in a few minutes.
3) Caveman Steak
Caveman Steak, also known as ‘Dirty Steak’ or ‘Fire Steak’ remains one of the all-time favorites of any inexperienced cook. With a few ingredients to use, such as salt, pepper, and extra virgin olive oil, Caveman steak is a sight to behold as it is charred and forms a beautiful crust outside. Some throw the steak straight on the fire tile oven floor while others use a bbq rack over an oven safe dish. The smoky flavor and juicy taste will leave you craving for more.
4) Roasted Vegetables and Potatoes
Vegetables and potatoes are healthy foods in themselves. Roasting them makes them even better. This dish is one of the best pizza oven recipe ideas worth trying. It is not only healthy but economical too. Imagine cooking the potatoes under high heat to make them crispy. On the other hand, vegetables are simmered as the embers die down. It is a win-win situation for all.
5) Carrot Cake
A wood-fired oven is the best appliance when baking a carrot cake. Unlike a conventional range, carrot cake cooked in a wood-fired oven is moist and crunchy.
The procedures are easy to follow. Start by preheating the oven and let the bricks absorb the heat. Then allow the oven to cool down, and voila! Your carrot cake is made. Cinnamon and walnuts added to the mixture make it even more irresistible.
It's okay to be nervous!
Although many newbies hit the ground running, it is expected at times for a beginner to feel a little apprehensive when trying new recipes. That is a normal feeling! Yet, there are simple and easy but flavorful dishes that you could try. The ones mentioned here are just a few. It is always good to try them—one dish at a time, and you are on your way to becoming an expert.
A big thank you to our friends at Authentic Pizza Ovens and Cru Ovens for the insight, pictures and some absolutely amazing wood fired ovens!
