ooni detroit pizza recipe

Ooni Detroit Pizza Recipe: A Guide to Authentic Square Slices

Detroit-style pizza, known for its thick, airy crust, rectangular shape, and signature caramelized cheese edges, has taken the pizza world by storm. Ooni ovens, capable of reaching high temperatures, are ideal for replicating the unique baking conditions required for this style of pizza. This article will guide you through crafting the perfect Detroit pizza using your Ooni oven.

Understanding Detroit Pizza and Ooni Ovens

Detroit-style pizza distinguishes itself with a focus on a high-hydration dough proofed in a well-oiled rectangular pan, often steel. This creates a crispy, almost fried bottom and a light, airy interior. The cheese, typically Wisconsin brick cheese, is spread edge-to-edge, resulting in the characteristic caramelized crust. Ooni ovens provide the intense heat needed to achieve this effect quickly and efficiently. For a more in-depth understanding of Detroit-style pizza, you can read more about its history and characteristics on Wikipedia’s Detroit-style pizza page.

The Recipe: Detroit Pizza in Your Ooni

Ingredients:

• Dough:
  • 500g Bread Flour (high protein)
  • 400g Water (80% hydration)
  • 15g Salt
  • 2g Instant Dry Yeast
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for the dough)
• Toppings:
  • 300g Wisconsin Brick Cheese (or a blend of Mozzarella and Monterey Jack)
  • 200g Pizza Sauce (thick and chunky is preferred)
  • Pepperoni (optional)
  • Olive Oil (for the pan)

Instructions:

1. Dough Preparation: Combine flour, water, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add olive oil and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 2-3 hours at room temperature, or until doubled in size.
3. Second Proof: Gently deflate the dough and place it in a well-oiled 9×13 inch rectangular pan. Press the dough to the edges of the pan. Cover and let rise for another 1-2 hours.
4. Oven Preparation: Preheat your Ooni oven to around 700-750°F (370-400°C), aiming for a hot stone.
5. Assembly: Top the dough with the cheese, spreading it evenly to the edges. Add dollops of pizza sauce on top of the cheese. Add pepperoni if desired.
6. Baking: Launch the pizza into the Ooni oven. Bake for 2-4 minutes, rotating frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The crust should be golden brown and the cheese bubbly and caramelized.
7. Cooling and Serving: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t be afraid of the high hydration dough – it’s crucial for the airy texture.
• Ensure the pan is generously oiled to achieve a crispy bottom crust.
• Rotate the pizza frequently in the Ooni to prevent uneven cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is high-protein flour important for Detroit pizza?

High-protein flour provides the necessary gluten development for the airy and chewy texture characteristic of Detroit-style pizza.

Can I use a different type of cheese if I can’t find Wisconsin Brick Cheese?

Yes, a blend of Mozzarella and Monterey Jack can be a good substitute, providing a similar flavor and melt.

How do I prevent the bottom of the pizza from burning in the Ooni?

Ensure the stone is not excessively hot before launching the pizza. Rotate the pizza frequently and consider using a lower flame setting if necessary.

What if my dough doesn’t stretch to the corners of the pan during the second proof?

Give the dough a few more minutes to relax and then try gently pressing it towards the corners again. Avoid forcing it, as this can cause the dough to tear.

Can I add other toppings besides pepperoni?

Absolutely! Detroit pizza is very customizable. Try adding mushrooms, sausage, or olives, but avoid overloading the pizza.

Summary

Mastering the Ooni Detroit pizza recipe brings the iconic flavors of Detroit-style pizza right to your backyard. By following this guide and paying attention to details like dough hydration, proofing times, and baking temperatures, you can create authentic square slices with crispy edges and an airy interior that rivals the best pizzerias. Enjoy!