If you’ve ever wondered how pizzerias slide pizzas in and out of scorching hot ovens with such precision and speed, it’s time to discover the question what is a pizza peel? As someone who loves pizza and enjoys cooking at home, we have always been curious about this unusual piece of equipment that pizza makers wield with such confidence and flair.
In this blog post, we will walk through exactly what a pizza peel is, the most effective designs, why you need one if you make homemade pizzas regularly, and most importantly – how to use it like a pro to ensure your pies end up perfectly cooked every time without any burnt or stuck crusts.
What Is a Pizza Peel?
Let’s start with the definition of a pizza peel. A pizza peel is a tool that is used to transfer pizzas in and out of an oven.
It typically consists of a long handle and a flat, wide blade at the end. The blade is usually made from wood, metal, or even composite materials like plastic.
The primary purpose of a pizza peel is to allow you to safely maneuver your pizza in and out of the hot oven without burning yourself. It also helps in maintaining the shape of the pizza and preventing it from sticking to the cooking surface.
With the rising popularity of homemade pizzas, pizza peels have become an essential tool for home cooks. They not only make it easier to transfer your pizza but also add a touch of authenticity to the overall experience.
The Origin Of Pizza Peel
Moving on to its history, it’s unclear where the pizza peel originated. The French term “Pelle,” which means shovel, is where the word peel originates.
Originally, they were used to bake pastries and bread, among other things. We also know that the pizza itself originated with the help of the Romans, Egyptians, Greeks, and (of course) Italians.
The pizza peel originated in some way when someone had to find out how to get the delectable ingredients into and out of a burning hot conical oven.
How To Use a Pizza Peel?
Using a pizza peel may seem simple, but it requires some practice to master. Here are the basic steps to follow when using a pizza peel:
Step 1: Preheat The Stone/Steel
If you are using a pizza stone or steel, make sure to preheat it in the oven before transferring your pizza. This will help prevent your pizza from sticking to the surface and ensure an even baking.
Step 2: Stretch and Top The Pizza Dough
Once your pizza is on the peel, you can stretch and top the dough as desired.
Step 3: Verify If The Dough Will Shimmy After Topping
Before transferring your pizza, make sure to give the peel a gentle shake to ensure that the dough is not sticking or overly moist.
If it seems to be stuck, you can sprinkle some flour or cornmeal on the peel.
Step 4: Transfer The Topped Dough To Your Very Hot Baking Sheet
Once you have successfully topped and verified your dough, it’s time to transfer it onto the hot baking sheet. Hold the peel at a slight angle and gently slide the pizza onto the cooking surface.
Step 5: While The Pizza Bakes, Turn It Around
To ensure even cooking, you can rotate your pizza a few times while it is baking. You can use the peel to carefully turn the pizza around without disturbing its shape.
Step 6: Remove The Completed Pizza From The Oven By Scooping It Off The Hot Stone Or Steel
Once your pizza is perfectly cooked, use the peel to lift it off the cooking surface. Be careful not to touch the hot stone or steel!
Why Should We Use a Pizza Peel?
Pizza peels are an essential tool for anybody who enjoys pizza because of their many practical and decorative advantages below:
1. Pizza Preservation: A pizza peel can help you transfer your pizza in and out of the oven without damaging its shape. This is especially useful for thin-crust pizzas that are more delicate and prone to tearing.
2. Even Cooking: By using a pizza peel, you can easily rotate your pizza while it’s baking, ensuring even cooking on all sides.
3. Safety: Pizza peels are designed to protect your hands from the heat of the oven and prevent any accidents or burns.
4. Authenticity: Using a pizza peel adds a touch of authenticity to your homemade pizzas, making them feel more like those from a traditional pizzeria.
5. Versatility: As mentioned earlier, a pizza peel can serve multiple purposes in the kitchen, making it a versatile tool to have on hand.
6. Display purposes: A wooden or decorative pizza peel can also be used as a serving platter for freshly baked bread, cheese, and other snacks. It adds a rustic touch to your food presentations and makes for an excellent conversation starter.
What Are The Different Types Of Pizza Peels?
Pizza peels come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. Some of the most common types include:
1. Wooden Peel: These are made from wood and are perfect for transferring pizzas to and from an oven. They are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and have a rustic charm.
2. Metal Peel: Metal peels are typically made from aluminum or stainless steel and are more durable than wooden ones. They are also thinner, making them ideal for sliding under pizzas with ease.
3. Composite Peel: These peels are made from composite materials like plastic, which makes them lightweight, easy to clean, and less likely to warp over time. They are also less likely to stick to the pizza dough.
Which Type Of Pizza Peels Works Best In Home Ovens?
The following factors are important to think about while purchasing a pizza peel:
1. If Your Stone, Steel, Or Pizza Oven Has A Square Or Rectangular Surface: Opt for a rectangular peel that has a longer handle to reach the back of your oven.
2. If You Are Using Your Pizza Peel As A Serving Board: Consider purchasing a more decorative wooden or composite peel to add visual appeal to your food presentations.
3. If You Have Limited Storage Space: Look for peels with folding handles or smaller sizes that can be easily stored in cabinets or drawers.
4. If Your Steel Or Stone Is Rounded And Somewhat Smaller (10 To 12 Inches In Diameter) With A Pizza Oven: In this case, you can choose either a round peel or a smaller rectangular one.
5. If You Have Extra Space: Consider getting A Pizza Peel with a long handle, making it easier to maneuver larger pizzas in and out of the oven.
6. If You Are An Expert Seeking A Sophisticated New Pizza Peel Setup: There are many high-quality, professional peels available in the market that come with customizable handles and additional accessories like pizza cutters.
7. If This Is Your First Time Using A Pizza Peel: Start with a simple wooden or composite peel to get the hang of using it before investing in more specialized or professional options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, now you know what is a pizza peel. Pizza peel- an essential tool for any home pizza maker. They come in various sizes and materials to suit different needs and preferences.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there is a perfect pizza peel out there for you. Just remember to consider factors like the shape of your oven, storage space, and your level of experience when choosing the right one for you.
So go ahead, get a pizza peel, and elevate your pizza-making game!
Happy baking!