ProCook Outdoor Pizza Oven: A Budget Performer Bringing Pizzeria Flavours Home
The ProCook outdoor pizza oven emerges as a competitive choice for those seeking an affordable yet capable pizza oven. Priced at £249, this compact and portable model is equipped to deliver a functional pizza-making experience, often outperforming its price category.
Features and Performance
This oven’s design allows it to cater up to 12-inch pizzas, featuring a manual rotating stone to ensure even cooking. Weighing 12kg and benefiting from foldable legs, it is easily transportable for social gatherings or camping trips. In our tests, the ProCook reached 430°C in approximately 25 minutes, a standard duration for compact gas-powered models. However, optimal use requires an additional investment in an infrared thermometer.
Testing Methodology
We evaluated the ProCook by preparing pizzas with varied toppings at different temperatures: a classic cheese and tomato pizza at 430°C, a vegetable pizza at 350°C, and a salami pizza at 400°C. The oven’s usability, assembly, and temperature control were scrutinised alongside its storage capabilities. It was noted that the test occurred during colder months, potentially affecting heat-up times.
Potential Drawbacks
While the ProCook oven offers a competent cooking experience for pizza enthusiasts, its narrow mouth can pose challenges when placing and retrieving pizzas. Additionally, the gas control is positioned at the back, necessitating assistance to observe the flame when adjusting heat.
Durability and Maintenance
The product is backed by a two-year warranty, with certain replacements available post-warranty. Users are advised to store it indoors to protect it from severe weather conditions. However, the rotating stone is irreplaceable, which may be a consideration for long-term users.
Final Verdict
The ProCook outdoor pizza oven is worth considering for those entering the pizza-making world on a budget. While not as versatile as higher-end options for diverse culinary uses, it stands out as a cost-effective choice for families and pizza aficionados wishing to enjoy homemade creations without the complexity or high expense of premium models.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.