What Should I Put on Pan Before Baking Pizza: A BBQ Enthusiasts Guide
Written By Avi Green
Baking the perfect pizza is an art, and as a BBQ enthusiast, you understand the passion that goes into achieving culinary excellence. One of the most common questions asked by home pizza chefs is, 'what should I put on pan before baking pizza'? This question can be further divided into a few key considerations.
Understanding the right elements to put on your pan can significantly enhance your pizza baking experience. From preventing sticking to achieving the perfect crust, weve got you covered.
Introduction to Pizza Baking for BBQ Enthusiasts
As BBQ enthusiasts, you know that achieving the perfect grilling or baking experience often comes down to the small details. Whether it's seasoning your grill or choosing the right type of firewood, you understand that these little nuances add up to create a remarkable final product. Pizza baking is no different.
Why the Pan Matters
The pan you use to bake your pizza can make a tremendous difference in the texture and taste of your final product. A well-prepared pan ensures that the dough cooks evenly, achieves the desired crispness, and most importantly, doesnt stick to the pan.
The Base: What Should Go on Your Pan?
Olive Oil: The Traditional Choice
Many chefs prefer brushing a thin layer of olive oil on the pan. It provides a subtle flavor and helps to achieve a crispy crust. Simply dip a paper towel or pastry brush in olive oil and give your pan a light coating.
Cornmeal: Adding Texture
Cornmeal is a popular choice for adding a slight crunch to the crust. Sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal evenly over the oil-coated pan. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a delightful texture to your pizza.
Parchment Paper: Effortless and Clean
If youre looking for an easy cleanup, parchment paper is your best friend. Place a sheet of parchment on your pan before adding your dough. It ensures that your pizza wont stick, and makes transferring the pizza to a cutting board a breeze.
Baking Stone: For the Perfect Crisp
A baking stone, or pizza stone, is another excellent choice. Preheating the stone in your oven will allow your pizza to start cooking the moment it touches the stone, resulting in a beautifully crispy crust. No need to add anything extra; the stone does all the work.
Seasoning Your Pan: Additional Considerations
For BBQ enthusiasts who love those extra layers of flavor, seasoning your pan can be a terrific idea.
Using Herbs and Spices
Adding a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano, basil, or even garlic powder to your olive oil before coating the pan can imbue your pizza with a subtle, yet delicious, extra layer of flavor.
Cheese for Extra Flavor
This might sound unconventional, but sprinkling a thin layer of grated parmesan or mozzarella onto your pan before placing the dough can add an extra layer of flavor and help to create a golden, crispy bottom.
BBQ and Pizza: A Match Made in Heaven
For BBQ enthusiasts, combining these two beloved culinary activities could be life-changing. Imagine baking your pizza over a BBQ grill. You could use a cast iron pan or a pizza stone specially designed for grills.
The BBQ Charcoal Twist
Using charcoal to bake your pizza brings a smoky, authentic flavor thats simply unbeatable. Preheat your grill and your stone to make sure theyre hot, and youre ready to create a pizza thats both crispy and smoky.
Important Tips for Every BBQ Enthusiast
Mastering BBQ and pizza baking involves some crucial tips that ensure you get it right every time:
- Always preheat your oven or grill for at least 30 minutes before baking the pizza.
- Monitor the pizza closely to prevent burning, especially if youre using a grill.
- Experiment with different seasoning and base options to find your perfect combination.
FAQs About Baking Pizza
1. Can I use flour instead of cornmeal?
Yes, flour can be used as an alternative to cornmeal. It helps prevent sticking but doesnt add the same texture that cornmeal does.
2. Do I need to oil a baking stone?
No, you dont need to oil a baking stone. Simply preheat it in your oven or grill, and it will do the rest.
3. Is parchment paper safe to use in very high heat?
Yes, parchment paper is generally safe to use in the oven, but it should not be exposed to direct flame or temperatures over 450F (232C).
For more tips, you can read our articles on rusty baking pan, fish sticking tips, or learn baking techniques.
