The Ultimate Guide To Pizza Turning Peels

Making pizza at home is a great way to enjoy your favorite dish and have fun in the kitchen. However, making perfect pizzas takes more than just ingredients, it takes the right tools. One of the most important tools you will need is a pizza turning peel. In this ultimate guide, we'll answer all your questions about pizza turning peels, including what they are, why you need them, how to use them, and what to look for when choosing one.

What is a Turning Peel?

A pizza turning peel is a flat, wooden or metal paddle that's used to transfer pizzas to and from the oven. It's similar to a shovel or spatula, but specifically designed for pizza making. The peel helps you keep your hands and arms safely away from the hot oven and prevents the pizza from sticking to the oven floor.

Why Use a Turning Peel?

Using a turning peel makes it much easier to move the pizza around in the oven, which is important for even cooking and for getting that perfect crispy crust. With a turning peel, you can easily move the pizza from the counter to the oven, turn it in the oven to cook both sides evenly, and remove it when it's ready.

How Do You Use a Turning Peel?

Using a turning peel is pretty simple. First, prepare your pizza dough and place it on a floured peel. Then, add your toppings and gently slide the pizza onto the oven floor. Use the peel to turn the pizza every few minutes to cook it evenly on both sides. When the pizza is ready, use the peel to remove it from the oven.

Do You Really Need a Pizza Turning Peel?

Yes, a pizza turning peel is an essential tool for anyone who wants to make great pizza at home. It makes the process much easier and safer, and it also helps you achieve better results.

What is the Difference Between a Pizza Peel and a Turning Peel?

A pizza peel is a flat, paddle-like tool used to transfer pizzas to and from the oven. A turning peel, on the other hand, is a peel with a long handle that's specifically designed for turning pizzas in the oven. A turning peel is a great option if you're looking for a tool that gives you more control and allows you to turn the pizza more easily.

What Should I Look for in a Turning Peel?

When choosing a turning peel, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the size. Choose a peel that's big enough to hold your pizza, but not so big that it's difficult to maneuver in the oven. Secondly, the material. Wooden peels are light and easy to use, but they can absorb moisture and bacteria over time. Metal peels are more durable and easy to clean, but they can be heavy and expensive. Thirdly, the handle length. A long handle makes it easier to turn the pizza, but a shorter handle is more convenient to store.

Can You Turn Pizza with a Rectangular Launching Peel?

You can definitely turn a pizza with a rectangular launching peel. However, it's not going to be the easiest or the best way to turn your pizza in the oven. With a turning peel, which has a smaller round head you gain far greater manoeuvrability of turning the pizza within the oven.  Whereas using a rectangular peel you most likely have to bring the pizza out of the oven, turn the pizza with your hands on the peel and then put back into the oven.  This could result in you burning your hands touching the hot pizza, so we don't advise that you do this method.  

In conclusion, a pizza turning peel is a must-have tool for anyone who loves to make pizza at home. It makes the process easier, safer, and helps you achieve better results. When choosing a turning peel, consider the size, material, and handle length to find the one that's right for you. Happy pizza making!