I recently got my hands on the Ooni Karu 12 (Wood/Charcoal), and let me tell you, it’s been quite an adventure!
Here’s my down-to-earth review of this bad boy
Let’s start with the positives, shall we? First off, I’m absolutely in love with the portability of this oven. It’s lightweight and compact, making it super easy to move around and take on outdoor adventures. Whether it’s a camping trip or a backyard BBQ, the Ooni Karu 12 is a breeze to transport.
Now, onto the cooking experience. When this baby gets fired up, it heats up like nobody’s business! The wood and charcoal combo gives that authentic, smoky flavor that I crave in my pizzas. The oven reaches high temperatures quickly, allowing me to achieve that perfect crispy crust in no time. Plus, the adjustable flame control gives me the freedom to experiment with different cooking techniques and heat levels.
Challenges encountered
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows with the Ooni Karu 12. One downside I’ve noticed is that it can be a bit tricky to find the right balance in temperature control. Sometimes, despite my best efforts, the heat distribution can be uneven. This can result in certain parts of my pizza cooking faster than others, which is a bummer.
Another challenge I’ve encountered is the learning curve when it comes to mastering the art of pizza placement. Due to the smaller size of the oven, positioning the pizza correctly to avoid burning or sticking can be a bit of a hit-or-miss situation. It took me a few tries and some burned crusts to get the hang of it.
Cleaning Process
Lastly, I must mention the cleanup process. Let’s be real here, folks—it’s not the most enjoyable part. The ash and residue buildup from the wood and charcoal require a thorough cleaning post-cooking, and it can be a bit messy and time-consuming.
In conclusion
All in all, the Ooni Karu 12 (Wood/Charcoal) is a fun and adventurous addition to any outdoor cooking enthusiast’s arsenal. It’s portable, delivers that delicious smoky flavor, and allows for some creative culinary experimentation. Just keep in mind the temperature control challenges, the learning curve of pizza placement, and the cleanup process. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge and don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty, this oven might just become your new favorite toy!