With over a decade of experience as a chef, I’ve served countless pizzas at my restaurant, Dequte Restaurant LironBoylston. Throughout the years, I’ve worked with various pizza ovens, and after putting the Ooni Koda 12 to the test for several months, I’ve discovered some key aspects that set it apart.”
In my review of the Ooni Koda 12 pizza oven, I evaluated its quality and materials, temperature control, shape, first-time usage impressions, power source, size, ease of cleaning, and conducted a real pizza cooking test to measure how quickly it cooks. For a detailed look at my testing methodology and expertise, please refer to my article: “How I Test Pizza Ovens.”
Disclaimer: This review includes affiliate links to the Ooni Koda 12 pizza oven. If you choose to purchase through these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. However, my opinions are based solely on my real hands-on experience as a professional chef with over a decade in the restaurant industry. The affiliate links do not affect the honest and unbiased feedback I’m sharing in this review.
How Ooni Koda 12 Works and How To Use It
I find the assembly of Ooni Koda 12 a breeze. It is perfect for individuals who appreciate simplicity without compromising quality. Its user-friendly design ensures that even those new to outdoor pizza ovens can effortlessly set it up and start cooking in no time.
I set up the pizza oven by placing it on a table, extending the three stand legs, sliding the stone board into the oven, and attaching the gas regulator and hose to a propane tank. It only took me 10 minutes to assemble everything.
The rear-mounted gas burner on the Koda 12 is a distinctive feature. Compared to the Ooni 3 gas burner, which had two spherical holes through which the gas went directly down into the oven, it’s a significant improvement.
Unboxing Ooni Koda 12 and My First Impression
After unboxing the Ooni Koda 12, my first impression was impressive. The sleek and compact design immediately communicates the oven’s commitment to efficiency and style. It’s a device that promises excellent functionality and an aesthetically pleasing addition to your backyard.
Quality and Materials
Being a chef for a long time taught me that the materials of your cooking vessel also contribute to the overall quality of your dishes. Pizza is one of the best sellers in my restaurant, so it is important that I have a quality pizza oven. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the Ooni Koda 12 boasts top-notch quality and durable materials, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
The shell is made of robust powder-coated carbon steel and is insulated with ceramic to ensure exceptional heat retention. The undercarriage is also comprised of stainless steel—these quality materials help create the perfect pizza crust that my customers love.
Shape of Ooni Koda 12
The oven’s thoughtful design sets it apart, focusing on the ideal pizza cooking environment. The shape of the Ooni Koda 12 plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect, crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings.
Temperature Control
Being a chef for more than ten years, I know how important it is to control the temperature when cooking. The Ooni Koda 12 does an excellent job in this aspect. It lets you adjust the heat precisely, making sure your pizzas turn out just the way you want them – perfectly crispy and full of flavor. This control is like being an orchestra conductor, allowing you to create different styles of pizza at home, just like the pros.
Using it For the First Time
Trying out the Ooni Koda 12 for the first time felt like making pizza magic. Setting it up was easy, and it was ready to make pizzas in no time. As I preheated the oven, I could almost taste the deliciousness about to happen.
I tested it first by making a classic Margherita pizza. I stretched the dough and added tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. The Ooni Koda 12, with its cool burner at the back, promised an even bake. I popped the pizza in, and soon enough, the restaurant was filled with a delicious aroma.
I turned the pizza consistently for a perfect, golden finish. When it’s done, it comes out with my ideal crispy crust and melted cheese.
Ooni Koda 12 Power Source
Powered by gas, the Ooni Koda 12 proves that the best pizzas come from the best power sources. The consistent and reliable heat contributes to the oven’s overall stellar performance.
Size
Most pizza enthusiasts love Ooni Koda 12 for its size and portability. It has a compact design that makes it easy to transport and set up in your backyard. This pizza oven is an ideal choice if you have limited space at home.
How To Clean Ooni Koda 12 Pizza Oven
Cleaning the Ooni Koda 12 is a straightforward process. Here’s a simple guide to keep your Ooni Koda 12 spick and span:
Cleaning the Exterior
After making my pizza, I let the oven cool down completely. Once cooled, I took a dry paper towel and effortlessly wiped away any soot that may have accumulated during cooking.
A gentle cleaning with soapy water did the trick for more stubborn stains. Drying the exterior immediately after cleaning is important to preserve the oven’s sleek appearance.
Baking Stone Care
It is also crucial to maintain the pristine condition of the baking stone. After cooking, let the oven cool down and use the specially designed Ooni Pizza Oven Brush to scrape off any bits of food that may have adhered to the stone during cooking. This oven brush’s efficient design ensures a thorough cleaning without damaging the stone’s surface.
Can I Use Ooni Koda 12 Indoors?
Using the Ooni Koda 12 indoors is not advisable. This oven is best for outdoor use and is not safe to use inside your home.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Pizza in Ooni Koda 12?
To test the Ooni Koda 12, I decided to make a classic Margherita pizza. The process was seamless, and the results were outstanding. Here’s a guide on how to achieve the perfect Margherita pizza using the Ooni Koda 12:
- Preheat the oven for approximately 15 minutes.
- Stretch your pizza dough to your desired thickness.
- Add a generous layer of tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
- Insert the pizza onto the preheated stone in the Ooni Koda 12.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes, rotating the pizza as needed for an even bake.
- Enjoy your perfectly cooked Margherita pizza!
How Long It Takes For Ooni Koda 12 to Warm Up
The Ooni Koda 12 impresses with its rapid warm-up time, reaching optimal cooking temperature in less than 20 minutes. It can reach high temperatures of more than 450 degrees Celsius (900 degrees Fahrenheit).
Can I Cook Something Besides Pizza in it?
While the Ooni Koda 12 is designed for pizza, its high heat output makes it suitable for cooking various dishes, from flatbreads to roasted vegetables.
Downsides
No product is without its drawbacks. The Ooni Koda 12, while exceptional, has a limited cooking space. The interior is around 6 to 8 inches tall, which is meant to keep the Koda compact and portable but makes turning the pizza inside challenging.
Price
The Ooni Koda 12 pizza oven is priced at more than USD300. While its price is a bit hefty, it totally reflects on its quality and performance. I believe that the superior pizza-making experience it provides justifies its cost. Discover the current price on Amazon.
How Does it Compare to Other Outdoor Pizza Ovens?
Compared to other outdoor pizza ovens, the Ooni Koda 12 stands out for its efficiency, ease of use, and rapid heating capabilities.
What Others Say
Numerous reviews on platforms like Amazon, Reddit, and YouTube from home cooks and renowned chefs praise the Ooni Koda 12 for its exceptional performance and reliability.
One Reddit user emphatically declares the Ooni Koda 12 as a game-changer.
According to them, not only is it an affordable option for crafting delectable pizzas, but its compact size makes it easy to store. They highlight its versatility, emphasizing its portability for impromptu pizza gatherings at friends’ houses, camping trips, or any outdoor escapade. The absence of a need for a large table in the garden adds an extra layer of convenience, making it a go-to choice for those with limited outdoor space.
On Amazon, users are equally impressed with the Ooni Koda 12. One reviewer marvels at its rapid heating capabilities, boasting temperatures that soar to a scorching 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes. This quick warm-up time aligns with my observations, underlining the efficiency of the Ooni Koda 12 in delivering high heat promptly.
You can find more positive reviews about the Ooni Koda 12 on YouTube. Food bloggers and pizza enthusiasts are raving about the efficiency and convenience of the Ooi Koda 12 pizza oven. These content creators showcase the oven’s user-friendly design, rapid heating capabilities, and, most importantly, it is consistently delivering mouthwatering results.
My Cooking Tips for This Oven
To enhance your Ooni Koda 12 experience, consider these tips:
- Experiment with different pizza dough recipes to find your perfect crust.
- Preheat the oven thoroughly for optimal results.
- Rotate the pizza during cooking to ensure even browning.
Conclusion
As a seasoned restaurant chef with a discerning palate and over a decade of experience, my journey with various pizza ovens has led me to the undeniable conclusion that the Ooni Koda 12 is a game-changer.
The Ooni Koda 12 unquestionably earns its reputation as the best pizza oven. Its sleek design, high-quality materials, and outstanding performance make it a worthwhile investment for any home cook passionate about crafting the perfect pizza.
While it may have some limitations, the limited cooking space of the Ooni Koda 12 is a trade-off for its compact and portable design. The price tag reflects its quality and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a superior pizza-making experience.
The Ooni Koda 12 pizza oven enhances the joy of creating perfect pizzas at home. It’s a culinary investment that will take your pizza-making skills to new heights. If you choose to buy it, kindly use my referral link.