Last updated on August 6th, 2023 at 12:20 pm
As a passionate pizza lover, I have always been on the hunt for the perfect wood-fired pizza oven that could bring the authentic taste of Italy right into my backyard. After extensive research and exploring various options, I finally stumbled upon the Ooni Karu 12, a pizza oven that promised to revolutionize my pizza-making experience.
In this review, I’ll share my first-hand encounter with this marvelous oven and delve into its features, cooking performance, ease of use, support, and overall value for money.
Our Rating 4.7/5.0
Features:
Design and Build Quality
The Ooni Karu 12 boasts a thoughtful and sturdy design, constructed from brushed 430 stainless steel with glass-reinforced nylon components.
This combination not only ensures durability but also gives the oven a sleek and modern look. The folding legs add a touch of portability, making it easy to transport and store when not in use.
Size and Capacity
Measuring at 80 x 40 x 77 cm (31.5 x 15.7 x 30.3 inches) and weighing a mere 12kg (25.6 lbs), the Ooni Karu 12 strikes the perfect balance between power and portability. Its 33 cm (13 inches) cooking surface can easily accommodate 12-inch pizzas and more, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings and outdoor parties.
Heating Method
The Ooni Karu 12 offers the flexibility of using wood or charcoal for that traditional wood-fired experience. Additionally, you have the option to attach a gas burner (sold separately) if you prefer the convenience of a gas-powered oven. This multi-fuel system ensures that you can adapt the oven to your cooking preferences without compromising on taste or quality.
Temperature Range and Control
With a maximum temperature of 500°C/950°F, the Ooni Karu 12 can cook pizzas in an astonishingly quick 60 seconds, giving you those perfectly crispy crusts and deliciously cooked toppings. The oven reaches an ideal baking temperature of 450°C/850°F in as little as 15 minutes, making it incredibly efficient and time-saving.
Cooking Performance
The Ooni Karu 12’s heat-resistant stone baking board and heavily insulated firebox contribute to its top-notch cooking performance. It evenly distributes heat, ensuring that each pizza comes out with fantastic crust quality. Whether you’re aiming for Neapolitan-style pizzas or experimenting with your creative toppings, this oven delivers outstanding results every time.
Recommended Reading: The Environmental Impact of Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
Key Specifications
- Highly portable at just 12kg (26.5lb), with the power of a large pizza oven.
- Multi-fuel system: Use wood or charcoal for a traditional wood-fired experience, or attach a gas burner (sold separately).
- Maximum temperature of 500°C/950°F; cooks pizzas in just 60 seconds.
- Quick heat-up time: Reach 450°C/850°F in as little as 15 minutes.
- 33 cm (13 inches) cooking surface on a 15mm (0.6 inches) cordierite stone baking board.
- Constructed from brushed 430 stainless steel and glass-reinforced nylon.
- Folding legs for easy transport and storage.
Ease of Use:
The Ooni Karu 12 may require a slight learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, the experience is immensely rewarding. The assembly process is straightforward, and the clear instructions provided make it easy to set up. The oven’s control system is intuitive, allowing you to adjust the temperature and cooking time with precision.
NOTE: Enhance your pizza-making skills with our carefully curated collection of wood-fired pizza ovens. Each exceptional model has been handpicked to guarantee the perfect level of crunchiness, delivering an unparalleled pizza experience with every delightful bite.
Safety Features
The Ooni Karu 12 is designed with safety in mind. The heat-resistant handles prevent accidental burns, and the oven comes with a chimney cap to regulate airflow and minimize any risk of overheating. However, as with any high-temperature cooking device, caution is still advised, especially when children are around.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning the Ooni Karu 12 is relatively simple. The cordierite stone baking board can be easily removed and cleaned, while the stainless steel body requires only a quick wipe-down. The oven’s compact and portable design also means it can be easily packed down for storage when not in use.
User Experience and Feedback
Drawing from my personal experience and the feedback of other users, the Ooni Karu 12 has garnered high praise for its cooking efficiency and ability to deliver authentic wood-fired pizza flavor. Users appreciate the oven’s versatility, allowing them to experiment with various fuel options and cooking techniques.
Value for Money
The Ooni Karu 12 offers excellent value for money. Priced reasonably, it provides top-notch cooking performance comparable to high-end wood-fired ovens. Whether you are a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a beginner, investing in the Ooni Karu 12 will undoubtedly elevate your culinary adventures.
- A versatile multi-fuel system offers the choice between wood, charcoal, or gas.
- Quick heat-up time and rapid cooking ensure efficient pizza production for hungry guests.
- A portable and lightweight design allows for easy transport and storage.
- Outstanding cooking performance with fantastic crust quality.
- Slight learning curve for beginners in achieving the perfect pizza dough.
- Gas burner sold separately, adding to the initial investment for gas-powered cooking.
Don’t Buy The Ooni Karu 12 Pizza Oven if…
If you prefer the option of full temperature control. While the Ooni Karu 12 offers a multi-fuel system and efficient cooking, it lacks the specific feature found in the Ooni Fyra 12. With the Ooni Fyra 12’s ability to grant full temperature control, you can tailor your cooking experience for the perfect pizza every time, making it the recommended choice for those seeking precise heat management.
The Verdict
The Ooni Karu 12 has truly revolutionized my pizza-making experience. With its ability to cook food quickly and cleanly using wood, charcoal, or gas, it has become an indispensable part of my outdoor cooking arsenal. While there may be a slight learning curve for perfecting pizza dough, the rewards are well worth it.
The Ooni Karu 12’s high-fire temperatures, compact and portable design, and top-notch cooking performance have won me over completely.
If you’re a pizza enthusiast looking to elevate your culinary skills and indulge in authentic wood-fired pizzas, the Ooni Karu 12 is an ideal choice. Its impressive cooking efficiency, versatility, and superb build quality make it a worthwhile investment for any pizza lover.
So, why wait?
Embark on your own pizza-making journey with the Ooni Karu 12 and taste the revolution!
Click here to get your today!
About Author
Ethan Davis, a culinary arts graduate with a deep passion for pizza, is an esteemed author in the field. With a wealth of professional experience in diverse pizza restaurants, Ethan has honed his skills and expertise in the art of pizza making. His mission is to share his extensive knowledge with a wider audience, captivating them through engaging articles that showcase his profound understanding and unwavering enthusiasm for the subject. Through his writing, Ethan aims to inspire pizza enthusiasts worldwide, fostering a greater appreciation for the craft and encouraging others to explore the delicious world of pizza.
