Our tips and tricks for baking bread perfectly in a wood-fired oven

Nothing beats the authentic flavor of wood-fired bread, with its golden crust and soft center! To achieve this result worthy of the best bakers, it's essential to master the art of wood-fired baking. My Barbecue reveals its best tips!

Are you the proud owner of a wood-fired oven purchased online from My Barbecue? Discover our comprehensive FAQ for tips on how to successfully make homemade bread, from preparing the dough to using your oven to its full potential, including choosing the essential accessories.

Buy your wood-fired oven online!

1. Prepare your wood-fired oven

Before baking your bread, it is crucial to heat the oven properly.

Preheating: Allow the oven to reach a temperature of 250 to 300°C. This can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of your oven and the wood used. Use hardwood, such as oak or beech, to ensure a slow, even burn. When the inner dome turns white, it is a sign that the temperature is correct.

Then let the heat distribute evenly by closing the door for a few minutes.

My Barbecue tip: Before sliding your bread in, check the temperature of the oven floor with a laser thermometer. A floor that's too hot could burn the base of the bread, while one that's too cold may not cook it thoroughly.

Our tips for preparing your wood-fired oven

2. Master the art of cooking

When baking your bread, remove excess ash with an oven brush to avoid any bitter taste.

Using Steam: For a crispy crust, add a container of water or throw a few ice cubes onto the oven floor before baking. This will create steam that hydrates the dough and helps form a beautiful crust.

Baking Time: The bread should bake for 20 to 40 minutes, depending on its size.

My Barbecue tip: You can test the doneness by tapping the bottom of the bread: it should make a hollow sound. If necessary, rotate the bread to ensure even cooking, as some wood-fired ovens may have hotter spots than others.

3. Adjust the temperature

Baking in a wood-fired oven requires some adjustment. Heat management: If your bread cooks too quickly on top, you can lower the temperature by opening the door slightly or removing a few embers. Conversely, if you need more heat, add more wood and let the temperature rise before closing the door.

My Barbecue tip: Invest in an oven thermometer to monitor internal temperatures and avoid surprises.

4. Buy the right accessories for success

For perfect bread baking, certain accessories are essential. Here's a must-have selection available on my-barbecue.com:

Bread peel: Essential for putting bread in and taking it out without damaging the dough or burning yourself.

Oven thermometer: To accurately monitor internal temperature and adjust cooking as needed.

Oven brush: Ideal for cleaning the oven floor before baking, removing ash and debris.

Protective gloves: To handle accessories safely, as the heat of the oven can be intense.

My Barbecue advice: Choose accessories made from durable, high-quality materials to ensure their durability, especially if you cook frequently.

Buy the best accessories for your wood-fired oven online!

Baking bread in a wood-fired oven requires patience, practice, and the right tools. By following these tips, you'll end up with a delicious loaf that will impress your family and friends.