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LESSON #7
BAKING THE PIZZA
First-time users
of the ensemble should test their oven for the best combination of rack
placement, baking temperature and baking time. Other variables that come
into play are the quantities of the toppings used, as well as their fat
and water content. Electric ovens tend to bake hotter, dryer and faster
than gas ovens, so make your adjustments accordingly. Make adjustments
to your baking process one at a time until you've found the perfect balance
of rack position, temperature and baking time to suit your oven.
Start by placing an oven rack in the middle of the oven. Turn on
the oven, setting the temperature at 450°F and completely pre-heat.
You may wish to check the temperature with an oven thermometer.
When the oven is at temperature, place a prepped pizza in the center
of the middle rack to allow for maximum air circulation around the pan.
A simple cheese and pepperoni pizza prepared in the Classic pan will bake
evenly and thoroughly in a 450°F oven on the middle rack in only
12 minutes.
ALWAYS use hot mitts when handling hot pans in and around the oven.
Also, a wooden pizza peel with a short handle is terrific for handling
hot pans in the home kitchen. Open the oven, slide the rack and pan out
for access and remove the pizza to a counter-top.
Signs to look for that
the pizza is ready are: 1) The cheese has melted on top and is beginning
to brown, 2) The crust edge has browned, from a medium to a golden brown,
and, 3) Carefully lift the edge of the pizza to inspect its bottom. The
bottom dough should be evenly browned. If these signs are evident, your
pizza's done!
The following are suggested baking recommendations for various pan and pizza styles using
the 12" diameter pan system:
Pan Type - Pizza Style - Rack Position - Oven Temp. - Baking Time (Minutes)
- Thin Crust, Plain Cheese, Middle Rack, 450° F, 10:00 Mins.
- Classic, Cheese/Pepperoni, Middle Rack, 450° F, 12:00 Mins.
- Classic, Deluxe (7-Item), Middle Rack, 375° F, 20:00 Mins.
- Rustica, 5-Item Veggy, Bottom Rack, 400° F, 15:00 Mins.
- Rustica, Seafood Quiche, Bottom Rack, 375° F, 25:00 Mins.
- Deep-Dish, Meat-Lovers, Bottom Rack, 350° F, 30:00 Mins.
~ END ~
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