A pizza maker is a specialized appliance designed to prepare pizza, simplifying the cooking process and saving considerable time. There are numerous models available on the market, ranging from budget-friendly options to more expensive ones. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right pizza maker and explore its versatility beyond pizza preparation.
What is a Pizza Maker?
A pizza maker features a two-lid design resembling a pan with a tightly sealed cover. The built-in heating elements in both the base and upper lid ensure the dish is cooked evenly.
The body of the pizza makers is crafted from heat-resistant materials like plastic or stainless steel. Depending on the model, the lower cooking surface may be solid or divided into sections, typically circular in shape.
All cooking surfaces are coated with a non-stick layer, allowing you to cook with minimal or no oil. Some models even come with natural stone surfaces for an enhanced baking experience.
Compact pizza makers are equipped with indicator lights located on the lid or handle. Many models also feature built-in timers and temperature regulators for added convenience.
This appliance can prepare a wide variety of dishes typically cooked in a conventional oven. However, the pizza maker operates much faster than traditional ovens.
What Can You Cook in a Pizza Maker?
The capabilities of a pizza maker extend far beyond pizza. You can also prepare:
- Breakfast favorites: Eggs, diced or sliced potatoes, meats, or patties.
- Quick meals: Sandwiches (fits up to four large toasts), grilled vegetables like zucchini, cabbage, bell peppers, and pumpkin that retain their flavor and aroma.
- Baked goods: Pies, cookies, flatbreads, khachapuri, pancakes, and croissants made from puff pastry.
Unlike gas or electric ovens, which require preheating, the pizza maker starts cooking almost immediately after being powered on. This allows you to prepare your favorite dishes quickly without compromising on taste.
How to Use Pizza Makers to Make Pizza
Preparing pizza with an electric pizza maker is straightforward, even for first-time users. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the base. Make pizza dough from scratch or thaw a store-bought version.
- Gather toppings. Chop and arrange the ingredients for your pizza.
- Grease the surface. If the cooking surface is made of natural stone, greasing is optional.
- Shape the dough. Place the dough carefully inside the circular mold, folding the edges to prevent melted cheese from spilling over during baking. This also helps avoid burning.
- Add toppings. Spread ketchup or a pizza sauce over the base, arrange the toppings, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Cook the pizza. Close the pizza maker and switch it on.
- Serve the pizza. Once cooked (15–20 minutes, depending on the model and power), use a wooden spatula to remove the pizza.
The pizza maker ensures ingredients don’t dry out or burn during cooking.
How to Choose a Pizza Maker
Choosing the right pizza maker can be tricky due to the variety of models available. Key factors to consider include:
- Cooking surface material and depth:
Models with deeper metal cooking surfaces are versatile and can handle pies, casseroles, and other baked goods. Natural stone surfaces are ideal for pizza, offering authentic flavor and texture. - Power:
The power of pizza makers ranges from 1000 to 1800 watts. Higher power ensures faster cooking. - Temperature control:
Not all pizza makers have a temperature regulator. However, having one simplifies cooking by allowing you to set the ideal temperature. Timers further enhance convenience by letting you customize cooking conditions. - Additional features:
Look for features like heat-resistant casing, a tightly sealing lid (to prevent batter from leaking), cable storage compartments, and non-slip feet for stability.
A pizza maker is a fantastic appliance for pizza lovers, simplifying the cooking process while saving time. Moreover, its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.