Ooni Karu 12G Pizza Oven Review: High-Heat Pizza Perfection?

This review dives into the Ooni Karu 12G pizza oven, exploring its capabilities in crafting high-heat, Neapolitan-style pizzas. We put this multi-fuel oven to the test, using propane for consistent heat control, to see if it lives up to the hype of delivering perfectly crispy crusts in record time. From preheating to the final bake, we chronicle the entire pizza-making process, detailing the techniques used to manage the intense 850°F heat and achieve optimal results.This detailed account will highlight the Ooni Karu 12G's strengths, such as its impressive heat retention and rapid cooking times, along with any minor drawbacks encountered. We’ll assess the oven's ease of use, its multi-fuel functionality, and ultimately determine whether its performance justifies the investment for serious pizza enthusiasts. Get ready to discover if the Ooni Karu 12G delivers on its promise of high-heat pizza perfection.

Pros And Cons

Pizza
  • Looking good
  • Delicious
  • Peppers got a little bit too crispy, too burnt

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Pizza Preparation and Oven Setup

The pizza-making process began with assembling the ingredients: salami, mozzarella, and jalapeños. A simple yet classic combination. The oven, an Ooni Karu 12G, was preheated to a scorching 850°F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that signature crispy crust. Ensuring the pizza stone is adequately heated is key to a successful bake.

Close-up shot of the pizza toppings being prepared.
Close-up shot of the pizza toppings being prepared.

The Ooni Karu 12G's multi-fuel capabilities were utilized; it was connected to a propane tank for consistent heat control. Preheating time was significant, demonstrating the oven's ability to reach and maintain high temperatures effectively. This preparation highlights the importance of understanding the oven's capabilities before beginning the cooking process.

The Ooni Karu 12G pizza oven preheating, showing the temperature gauge.
The Ooni Karu 12G pizza oven preheating, showing the temperature gauge.

The Baking Process: High Heat and Precision

After placing the pizza in the extremely hot oven, the heat was slightly reduced to prevent burning the top. This step underscores the importance of heat management when working with such high temperatures. The initial bake time was approximately one minute before adjustments were made.

The pizza being carefully placed into the hot oven.
The pizza being carefully placed into the hot oven.

The pizza was carefully rotated and monitored for even cooking. The narrator demonstrated techniques to manage the intense heat, including using the pizza peel as a heat shield. This illustrates the need for active participation and skill during the high-temperature baking process.

Using the pizza peel to shield the pizza from direct flames.
Using the pizza peel to shield the pizza from direct flames.

Results and Observations

The thin-crust pizza cooked beautifully, exhibiting a desirable level of browning and crispness. The cooking process highlighted the efficiency of the high-heat oven in achieving a quick and even bake. However, the jalapeños were slightly overcooked.

The pizza cooking evenly in the Ooni Karu 12G.
The pizza cooking evenly in the Ooni Karu 12G.

The overcooked jalapeños were identified as a minor drawback, suggesting the need for adjustments, such as pre-coating with olive oil. The overall result, despite this minor flaw, demonstrates the Ooni Karu 12G's potential for creating delicious pizzas.

Close-up shot of the slightly burnt jalapeños.
Close-up shot of the slightly burnt jalapeños.

Final Verdict: A Powerful Tool for Pizza Enthusiasts

The Ooni Karu 12G excels in achieving high temperatures and cooking pizzas quickly. Its multi-fuel option offers flexibility in fuel choices. Its ability to produce a perfectly crisp crust is a highlight.

The finished pizza, showing the overall result.
The finished pizza, showing the overall result.

While minor adjustments may be needed for specific ingredients, the oven’s performance is undeniable. The high heat requires some experience and careful monitoring, but the rewards are well worth the effort. For serious pizza lovers seeking quality results, the Ooni Karu 12G is a worthwhile investment.