In recent years, homemade pizza has become increasingly popular, with many people enjoying the freedom to create their own delicious pies in the comfort of their own kitchens. However, in order to achieve the perfect pizza, it’s important to use the right equipment. Two popular options are pizza steel and pizza stone, but which one is better? In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each, and help you decide which one is right for your home pizza-making needs.
What is Pizza Steel?
Pizza steel is a relatively new invention and has quickly gained popularity among pizza enthusiasts. It’s made from a thick sheet of steel, typically around 1/4 inch thick, and is designed to be heated in the oven before placing the pizza on top. The steel’s high conductivity and retention of heat allow for a crisp crust with evenly-cooked toppings.
One of the major advantages of pizza steel is its ability to cook pizza quickly. Because of its high conductivity, it can take as little as 6-8 minutes to cook a pizza. This is especially useful for those who don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
However, pizza steel does have some drawbacks. Because it’s made of steel, it’s heavier and more cumbersome than pizza stones, which can make it difficult to maneuver in the kitchen. Additionally, pizza steel can be more expensive than pizza stones, although prices vary depending on the size and quality of the steel.
What is Pizza Stone?
Pizza stones have been used for decades to create delicious homemade pizzas. They’re typically made from natural materials like ceramic, clay, or cordierite, and are designed to be heated in the oven before placing the pizza on top. The porous nature of the stone allows for moisture to escape, resulting in a crispy crust with a chewy interior.
One of the major advantages of pizza stones is their versatility. They can be used not only for pizza, but also for bread, pastries, and other baked goods. Additionally, pizza stones come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your oven and your personal preferences.
However, pizza stones also have some drawbacks. They can take longer to heat up than pizza steel, which can result in longer cooking times. Additionally, pizza stones can be more fragile than pizza steel and can crack or break if not handled carefully.
How to Use Pizza Steel and Pizza Stone
Both pizza steel and pizza stone require some preparation before use. Here are the steps to using each:
For Pizza Steel:
- Place pizza steel on the middle rack of your oven and preheat at 500-550°F for 45-60 minutes.
- Dust the steel with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Add your pizza toppings to the dough, and transfer to the pizza steel using a pizza peel.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted to your liking.
- Use the pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
For Pizza Stone:
- Place a pizza stone on the middle rack of your oven and preheat at 500-550°F for at least 30 minutes.
- Dust the stone with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Add your pizza toppings to the dough, and transfer to the pizza stone using a pizza peel.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted to your liking.
- Use the pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your dough. It’s also a good idea to rotate your pizza halfway through cooking to ensure even baking.
Comparison of Pizza Steel vs. Pizza Stone
When it comes to pizza steel vs. pizza stone, both have their pros and cons. Here’s a comparison of the two:
Pizza Steel:
- Heats up quickly, resulting in shorter cooking times
- Provides even heat distribution for a crispy crust with evenly-cooked toppings
- Can be more expensive than pizza stones
- Heavier and more difficult to maneuver in the kitchen
Pizza Stone:
- Versatile – can be used for pizza, bread, and other baked goods
- Comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your oven and personal preferences
- Absorbs moisture, resulting in a crispy crust with a chewy interior
- May take longer to heat up, resulting in longer cooking times
- More fragile than pizza steel, and can crack or break if not handled carefully
Ultimately, the decision of which one to use comes down to personal preference and budget. Pizza steel may be a better option for those who want a quick and easy cooking experience, while pizza stone may be better for those who want versatility and a lower cost.
Price and Availability
Prices for both pizza steel and pizza stone can vary widely depending on the quality, size, and brand. In general, pizza steel tends to be more expensive than a pizza stone, but can also last longer and provide better results.
Both pizza steel and pizza stone are widely available online and in kitchen supply stores. When shopping for either one, it’s important to read reviews and choose a reputable brand to ensure you get a high-quality product.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pizza steel and pizza stone are both great options for creating delicious homemade pizza. Pizza steel is best for those who want a quick and easy cooking experience with even heat distribution, while pizza stone is better for those who want versatility and a lower cost. Ultimately, the decision of which one to use comes down to personal preference and budget. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create the perfect homemade pizza every time.
