Pizza is one of the favorite fast foods all across the globe. However, everyone likes to relish the authentic taste of a crispy pizza that can only be obtained when prepped on a pizza stone. While a conventional oven can provide the right environment for cooking pizza, what about the grilling enthusiasts? Is it possible to use a pizza stone on a BBQ?
When it comes to grilling, your BBQ is the go-to equipment for cooking juicy BBQ meats. However, pizza is not the first food item that comes to mind when thinking about BBQing. But with a pizza stone, you can enjoy delicious, crispy pizzas using your BBQ. In this article, we’ll answer the question of whether you can use a pizza stone on the BBQ and give you some tips on how to make a perfect pizza on a grill.
Benefits of Using a Pizza Stone on a BBQ
Pizza is a classic dish that everyone loves, and cooking it on a grill not only adds a unique flavor to the pizza but also makes it more fun to cook. Using a pizza stone on a BBQ has many benefits that you shouldn’t overlook.
Firstly, a pizza stone on a BBQ allows for even heating. The stone absorbs the heat and distributes it evenly throughout the pizza, preventing hot spots that could lead to uneven cooking. The result is a perfectly cooked crust with all the toppings cooked to perfection. Additionally, a pizza stone on a BBQ helps to achieve a crispy crust that’s impossible to replicate in an oven. The high heat from the grill and the porous nature of the stone combine to create a delicious crust that’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
Overall, using a pizza stone on a BBQ is a great way to elevate your pizza-making skills and impress your family and friends with delicious, perfectly cooked pizzas.
The Best Pizza Stones for BBQ Grilling
When it comes to grilling pizza on a BBQ, the type of pizza stone you choose can make all the difference. The best pizza stones for BBQ grilling are typically made from either ceramic or cordierite materials, both of which are capable of withstanding high temperatures without cracking or breaking.
Ceramic pizza stones are the perfect choice for those looking for a lightweight and affordable option. They heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly, resulting in a crisp crust and well-cooked toppings. Cordierite pizza stones, on the other hand, are a bit more pricey, but they can withstand even higher temperatures and are much more durable than ceramic stones. Whether you opt for a ceramic or cordierite pizza stone, investing in a good quality one will ensure that your pizza cooks evenly and to perfection every time!
How to Properly Prepare and Season a Pizza Stone for BBQ Use
When using a pizza stone on a BBQ, it is important to properly prepare and season it beforehand. The first step in preparing your pizza stone is to rinse it with warm water and use a brush to remove any leftover debris. Make sure to avoid using soap as it can leave a residue on the stone that will affect the taste of your pizza.
Next, place the stone on the BBQ and heat it up gradually, starting with low heat for around 15 minutes and gradually increasing the temperature. This will ensure that the stone is properly heated and will prevent it from cracking due to sudden changes in temperature. Lastly, season the stone with a light coating of olive oil to help prevent sticking and enhance the flavor of your pizza. Following these steps will help you get the most out of your pizza stone and ensure that your pizzas come out perfect every time.
Tips and Tricks for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Pizza on a BBQ
Achieving perfectly crispy pizza on a BBQ can be a tricky feat, but with the right tips and tricks, it’s definitely doable. Firstly, preheat your pizza stone on the BBQ for at least 30 minutes before placing your pizza dough on it. This will ensure the stone is hot enough to cook the pizza evenly and thoroughly.
Next, get creative with your toppings. Be cautious not to overtop your pizza, as too many toppings can weigh down the dough and prevent it from getting crispy. Rather, opt for light toppings and use them sparingly. Additionally, brush the crust with garlic butter before baking to enhance the flavor and, more importantly, give the edges a nice crispy texture. Finally, if you’re struggling to achieve the desired crust consistency, try adjusting the temperature of your BBQ or moving your pizza stone closer to or further from the heat source. With a little bit of trial and error, you’ll soon be able to create a perfectly crisp and delicious pizza on your BBQ.
Versatility of Pizza Stones for Non-Pizza BBQ Meals
Pizza stones are not just limited to cooking delicious pizzas. They also offer versatility when it comes to grilling meats and vegetables. With a pizza stone, you can grill meat, fish, and vegetables to perfection. The stone offers consistent heat and keeps the food from sticking, ensuring that the inside of your meat or vegetables are fully cooked. Additionally, cooking on a pizza stone gives your food that delicious smoky flavor that is hard to achieve with other cooking methods.
The pizza stone’s versatility is not only limited to grilling. You can also use it to bake bread, cookies, and pies outdoors, making your outdoor cooking experience more enjoyable. The stone is perfect for making flatbreads and tortillas, and with its even heat distribution, your baked goods will come out perfectly every time. Whether you want to enjoy a delicious pizza or grill juicy meat and vegetables to perfection, a pizza stone is a versatile tool that you cannot afford to miss in your outdoor cooking setup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Pizza Stone on a BBQ
Using a pizza stone on a BBQ can yield delicious results, but it is important to avoid some common mistakes. One of the most significant errors is placing a cold pizza stone onto the hot grates. Placing a cold stone on a hot grill can lead to the stone cracking or breaking. To prevent this, always make sure your pizza stone is at room temperature before placing it on the BBQ.
Another common mistake is not heating the stone before placing the pizza on it. A cold stone will not distribute heat evenly, leading to a soggy or undercooked crust. To avoid this, preheat the stone on the BBQ for at least 30 minutes before adding the pizza. Additionally, avoid using too many toppings as they can weigh down the crust and cause it to become soggy. With these tips in mind, you can avoid common pitfalls when using a pizza stone on a BBQ, and enjoy delicious, crispy pizza every time.
Cleaning and Storing Your Pizza Stone After BBQ Use
After using a pizza stone on your BBQ, it’s essential to clean it properly before storing it. You should not use soap or any other cleaning agents on the pizza stone as it will absorb the odor and taste, which can transfer to your pizzas in the future. Instead, you can scrape off any leftover food with a spatula or brush and then wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Once the pizza stone is cleaned, leave it aside to air dry completely. Do not put it back into its storage place while it’s still moist as it can cause bacteria and mold to grow. When it’s dry, store in a cool and dry place away from dust, and make sure it doesn’t come into contact with any other kitchenware to prevent scratches. Properly cleaning and storing your pizza stone will ensure that it lasts you a long time and helps create deliciously crispy pizzas every time you use it.
The Bottom Line
Using a pizza stone on a BBQ is definitely possible, but it requires some careful preparation. First, you should make sure that the stone you are using is rated for outdoor use and can handle high temperatures. Additionally, preheating the stone is essential to ensure that the pizza cooks evenly and thoroughly. Finally, using a pizza peel to transfer the pizza onto and off the stone will make the process much smoother.
While adding an extra appliance to your outdoor cooking setup might seem unnecessary, using a pizza stone on your BBQ can add a new level of versatility to your grilling menu. Whether you’re a fan of thin-crust or deep-dish, a perfectly cooked pizza can be a great addition to any backyard gathering. So next time you’re looking to switch up your BBQ routine, consider giving a pizza stone a try – your taste buds will thank you.
