10 Best Pizza Peel Cooks Illustrated, Top Reviews

Perforated pizza peels offer several advantages over solid ones, particularly for those who make pizzas frequently.

Advantages of Perforated Pizza Peels:

• Reduced Friction: The holes reduce the contact surface, making it easier to slide pizzas on and off.
• Less Burnt Flour: Excess flour falls through the perforations, preventing it from burning on the pizza stone or oven floor.
• Lighter Weight: Perforated peels are often lighter than solid ones, making them easier to handle.

Disadvantages:

• Less Versatile: Perforated peels may not be ideal for very soft or heavily topped pizzas, which might sag through the holes.
• Potential Learning Curve: It might take some practice to get used to using a perforated peel.

Overall, if you frequently make pizzas and want to avoid burnt flour while enjoying easier handling, a perforated peel is a great choice.

Do I need two pizza peels?

Having two pizza peels can be very beneficial, especially if you make pizzas often.

Reasons to Have Two Pizza Peels:

• Different Tasks: Use a wooden peel for launching the pizza into the oven (as dough sticks less to wood) and a metal peel for retrieving the cooked pizza (as it slides easily under the crust).
• Efficiency: Having two peels can speed up the pizza-making process, allowing you to prepare the next pizza while one is baking.
• Backup: If one peel is in use or gets dirty, you have another ready to go.

While not absolutely necessary, having two pizza peels can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Is a pizza peel useful?

Yes, a pizza peel is a highly useful tool for anyone who enjoys making homemade pizza.

Benefits of Using a Pizza Peel:

• Safe Handling: Allows you to easily transfer pizzas in and out of a hot oven, preventing burns.
• Even Cooking: Helps position the pizza properly in the oven for even cooking.
• Versatility: Can be used for handling other baked goods like bread, calzones, and pastries.
• Professional Results: Provides a more professional pizza-making experience, making it easier to create pizzeria-quality pizzas at home.

Overall, a pizza peel is an essential tool for home pizza makers, enhancing both safety and the quality of the final product.

What is the best wood for pizza peels?

The best wood for pizza peels is typically hardwood, which is durable and can withstand the rigors of repeated use.

Top Choices for Wood Pizza Peels:

• Maple: Hard, durable, and has a fine grain that prevents sticking.
• Beech: Strong and has a smooth surface, making it easy to clean.
• Ash: Lightweight yet strong, with a smooth finish.
• Bamboo: Eco-friendly, durable, and resistant to moisture and warping.

Hardwoods like maple, beech, and ash are preferred for their durability and smooth surface, while bamboo is an excellent sustainable option.

Should I oil my pizza peel?

Wood Pizza Peels: Yes, you should oil your wood pizza peel regularly to maintain its quality and longevity. Oiling prevents the wood from drying out, cracking, and absorbing moisture or odors.

How to Oil Your Pizza Peel:

1. Clean Thoroughly: Make sure the peel is clean and dry before applying oil.
2. Choose the Right Oil: Use food-grade mineral oil or cutting board oil. Avoid vegetable oils as they can become rancid.
3. Apply Evenly: Use a cloth to apply a thin, even layer of oil over the entire surface.
4. Let it Absorb: Allow the oil to soak in for several hours or overnight.
5. Wipe Off Excess: Wipe off any remaining oil with a clean cloth.

Metal and Composite Peels: These do not require oiling. Instead, keep them clean and dry to maintain their performance and longevity.

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