Скачать или смотреть Making of Wood-fire Oven

Building a makeshift woodfire oven from bricks and stone slabs is a fun and practical DIY project. Here’s how you can do it:
Materials Needed:

42 Bricks (preferably fire bricks for heat resistance)
3 No 18×26 inches Stone slabs (2”thick and sturdy, for the cooking surface and roof). I have used hamam stones here.

Steps to Build:
1. Create the Base
Arrange the stone slab on a flat levelled surface. Ensure the structure is level and sturdy.

2. Build the fire chamber.
Stack bricks In 4 layers laying 6 bricks in 1st and 3rd layer and 7 bricks in 2nd & 4 th layer ensuring stability. Create a vent as shown in the video

3. Create the cooking chamber.
Place another stone on top of the bricks. This is where the cooking will take place. Repeat the bricks stacks according to your requirement keeping in mind not to close the vent. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation but no large gaps where heat can escape. Finally cover it with the 3rd stone.

4. Test the Oven
Place small amounts of wood and kindling inside and light a fire. Gradually increase the fire’s intensity to cure the structure and check for weak spots. Let the fire burn for a few hours to stabilize the structure.

Tips for Use:
Preheat the Oven: Start a fire at least 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure the stone surface is hot enough.
Clean the Surface: Use a brush or cloth to remove ash before placing food directly on the stone.
Maintain Heat: Add wood as needed to maintain consistent heat during cooking.
This simple oven works well for pizzas, breads, and roasting!

PRECAUTIONS
Building and using a makeshift woodfire oven involves certain risks and challenges. Here are the key precautions to ensure safety and success:

During Construction
1. Material Selection
Use fire bricks and heat-resistant stone slabs. Regular bricks or stones can crack under high heat.  Avoid using materials that may contain moisture as they can explode when heated.

2. Stability
Ensure the foundation is level and stable to prevent the oven from collapsing. Stack bricks securely, avoiding gaps or loose pieces that could shift during use.

3.  MOST IMPORTANT
This happened to us!  As water was dripping from the trees above (due to snow), the stones cracked in some places but it did not affect its performance. Water droplets falling on hot stones can cause thermal shock, which can crack or even shatter the stones. To prevent this,
Cover the oven by building a simple roof or place a temporary waterproof cover over the oven to shield it from rain or dripping water.
When using the oven after a period of disuse, heat it slowly to allow any absorbed moisture in the stones to evaporate gradually.

By taking these steps, you can minimize the risk of water damaging the stones in your woodfire oven.



***********************************************

Ingredients for Pide
For the Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tbsp butter
1 cup warm water

For the Filling (choose any)
1. Cheese & Spinach
1 cup spinach, sautéed
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or mozzarella

2. Minced Meat (Lahmacun Style)
200g minced lamb or beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, finely chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Vegetarian
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup sliced olives
1/2 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar

For Brushing
1 egg yolk (optional for a golden crust)
1 tbsp milk or olive oil

*********************************************

Here’s a recipe for Turkish Pide, a soft, boat-shaped bread filled with delicious toppings.



Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until a soft, elastic dough forms.

3. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Choose your desired filling and prepare it while the dough rises. Cook meat fillings or sauté vegetables as needed.

Step 3: Shape the Pide

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).

2. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each into an oval, about 10–12 inches long.

3. Add the filling in the center, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the edges over and pinch the ends to form a boat shape.

Step 4: Bake the Pide

1. Brush the edges with egg yolk mixed with milk or olive oil for a shiny crust.

2. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Brush with olive oil or butter after baking for extra softness. Serve warm with a side of yogurt or salad.



#easymeals #woodfirepizza #woodfirecooking #woodfireoven #turkish #masterchef #diy #outdoorcooking