Healthy Lifestyles

Discover Why the Ooni Fyra 12 is the Best Wood-Fired Oven on the Market

In the world of wood-fired ovens, the Ooni Fyra 12 stands tall. With its quick heat-up time, portable design, and authentic smokey flavor, it takes outdoor pizza cooking to new heights. Explore why it's considered the best wood pellet oven on the market and unlock a world of delicious possibilities.

Jan E.M.
May 17, 2023
17 min read
Lakeside Home and GardenSeasonal - SpringSeasonal - Summer
Ooni Fyra 12 Portable Wood Fired Pizza Oven
Ooni Fyra 12 Wood Fired Pizza Oven

Gas-powered pizza ovens are great. But we're here to talk about the Ooni Fyra 12-wood pellet pizza oven. Cooking with the Ooni Fyra takes some time getting used to but once you've gotten the hang of it, you'll be having one terrific pizza party after the other.

Editors Note:  It was only a few years ago my husband and I were first introduced to wood-fired pizzas.  Yummy locally grown toppings, a perfectly prepared dough and wood fired heat to just the right temperature.  The perfect personal sized pizzas. We were hooked.  And, you will be too.  Now, Ooni makes it possible for you to experience wood fired personal pizzas right from the comfort of your own home.

In this guide, we'll talk about how to use this outdoor pizza oven and we'll also throw in our opinion about the product at the end. We'll try to answer whether or not the Fyra is worth your investment.

Get Started Quickly Cooking Outdoor Pizza with Ooni Fyra 12

Ooni Fyra 12 Pizza Oven

Wood Fired Pizza Oven | Available with Several Accessory Bundles

Check Price on Amazon!

How to Set Up Your Ooni Fyra 12?

Setting up your Ooni Fyra 12 is a breeze! Start by finding a sturdy, level surface in your outdoor space. Place the oven on a heat-resistant base, such as the Ooni Fyra Carry Cover or a suitable tabletop. Insert the chimney on the back of the oven, and you're ready to go! Remember to use wood pellets as the fuel source, ensuring the pellet hopper is filled with pellets before starting the fire. Follow the instructions provided with the oven for a smooth and hassle-free setup process.

How Does the Ooni Fyra 12 Work?

The infamous Ooni Fyra 12 makes wood-fired pizzas.   It works on the principle of wood pellet-powered cooking. The oven features a hopper where you load the wood pellets, which then feed into the firebox. Ignite the pellets, and the fire will quickly reach optimal temperatures, heating the stone baking board inside the oven. This creates a perfect environment for cooking mouthwatering pizzas. The design of the oven ensures efficient heat retention and distribution, resulting in even and fast cooking.

How easy is it to cook a pizza in the Ooni Fyra? Benefits of Fast Heat Time

Cooking a pizza in the Ooni Fyra 12 is a delightfully easy and efficient process. One of the key benefits is its fast heat time, as the oven can reach temperatures of up to 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes. This means you can have a piping hot and perfectly cooked pizza ready to enjoy in just a few minutes.
The intense heat of the oven ensures a crispy crust, while the fast cooking time seals in the flavors and preserves the toppings' freshness. With the Ooni Fyra 12, you'll have the convenience of quickly cooked and delicious pizza right in your backyard.

One of the main benefits of fast heat time is that you can spread the sauce and toppings while you are preheating the oven. It takes most cooks about 15 - 20 minutes to get the cooking surface ready.


Infamous Neapolitan Pizza

How to Achieve the Perfect Neapolitan Pizza with Fyra Portable Pizza Oven

What makes Neapolitan Pizza different?  We are glad you asked.  The Neapolitan pizza style originated in Naples, Italy, and has been perfected over the centuries. What sets it apart from others is the traditional methods used to prepare the pizza and the specific ingredients used.

The key ingredient that sets Neapolitan pizza apart is the dough. It is made from a specific type of wheat flour known as "00" flour, which is finely ground and makes for a soft and elastic texture. The dough is then mixed with water, salt, and yeast, and left to rise for several hours. (see complete recipe below)  The sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, which have a unique flavor and are grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius. Fresh mozzarella cheese, usually made from buffalo milk, is then added on top of the sauce. The pizza is cooked at high temperatures for only 60-90 seconds, resulting in a crispy yet soft crust.

The Ooni Fyra 12 Pizza Oven is an essential component in creating the ideal cooking environment for Neapolitan pizza. Its innovative wood pellet burner allows the oven to reach temperatures up to 932°F (500°C), which is essential for making authentic Neapolitan pizzas. The oven design also incorporates a stone baking board, which helps to evenly distribute heat and create the perfect crust.

To achieve the best results with the Ooni Fyra 12 Pizza Oven when making Neapolitan pizza at home, it is important to follow a few tips. Firstly, use high-quality ingredients, especially the specific type of flour and tomatoes mentioned earlier. Secondly, make sure to preheat the oven for at least 20 minutes before cooking the pizza. This ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the pizza in the required amount of time. Additionally, it is important to rotate the pizza regularly while it is cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly.

By following a few simple tips, you can achieve restaurant-quality pizzas right in your own backyard with the Ooni Fyra 12:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating the Ooni Fyra with wood pellets, ensuring the hopper is filled. Allow the oven to heat up for approximately 15-20 minutes until it reaches the desired temperature of around 900°F (500°C). This high heat is essential for achieving a Neapolitan-style pizza.

Prepare the Dough: Use a traditional Neapolitan pizza dough recipe, which typically consists of flour, water, yeast, and salt. Allow the dough to rest and proof, following the recipe instructions. The dough should be soft, elastic, and easy to stretch.   We'll talk more about how to make dough from scratch in the next section.

Stretch the Dough: Dust your work surface with flour or semolina to prevent sticking. Gently stretch the dough into a round shape, aiming for a thin center and slightly thicker crust. Avoid overhandling the dough to maintain its lightness and airy texture.

Add Simple Toppings: Neapolitan pizzas traditionally have simple toppings to let the dough shine. Use San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Use a Pizza Peel: Dust a pizza peel or wooden paddle with flour or semolina. Transfer the stretched pizza dough onto the peel to prepare it for sliding into the oven. Shake the peel gently to ensure the dough slides freely.

Quick Cooking Process: Neapolitan pizzas cook quickly in the high heat of the Ooni Fyra. Slide the pizza into the preheated oven, and it should cook in just about 60-90 seconds. Rotate the pizza periodically for even cooking and a charred, blistered crust.

Practice and Experiment: Achieving a great pizza may take some practice. Adjusting the dough thickness, toppings, and cooking time can help you fine-tune your technique. Experiment with different combinations and flavors to create your signature Neapolitan masterpiece.

Remember, the key to Neapolitan pizza is simplicity, high heat, and high-quality pizza ingredients. With the Ooni Fyra portable pizza oven, you have the power to recreate the authentic taste of Naples in the comfort of your backyard. Enjoy the process, embrace the delicious results, and share the joy of Neapolitan pizza with family and friends.


BONUS:  No-Fail Dough Recipe for Ooni Fyra 12 At a Glance

For a no-fail dough recipe that works perfectly with your Ooni Fyra 12, try this simple and reliable formula:

500 grams of 00 flour

325 milliliters of water

10 grams of salt

3 grams of yeast

Making Neapolitan Pizza Dough from Scratch

Making Neapolitan pizza dough from scratch is a rewarding process that allows you to fully customize your pizza experience. Follow these steps to create delicious dough for your first pizza. Ooni Fyra 12:

Gather Your Ingredients: You'll need 00 flour, water, salt, and yeast for the dough. Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Mixing the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of 00 flour with 325 milliliters of water. Dissolve 10 grams of salt in the water, then add 3 grams of yeast. Mix the ingredients until they come together into a rough dough.

Kneading the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. This process helps develop the dough's structure and texture.

Proofing the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it proof at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Portioning and Resting: After proofing, divide the dough into individual portions, typically around 200 grams each. Shape the portions into balls and let them rest for at least 30 minutes, allowing the gluten to relax.

Your Neapolitan pizza dough is now ready to be shaped, topped, and cooked in your Ooni Fyra 12. Remember to use a light touch when stretching the dough to maintain its airy texture and delicate structure. Enjoy the process of creating your homemade Neapolitan pizzas with the authentic taste and texture that will impress your family and friends.


The Things We Like About the Fyra 12

The Fyra 12 by Ooni is a portable pizza oven that has garnered attention for its unique features and performance. Here are some of the things we like about the Fyra 12:

Compact and Portable Design: The Fyra 12 is designed with portability in mind. It's lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or simply enjoying homemade pizza in different locations. It has folding legs which makes storage much easier.

Wood Pellet Fuel: The Fyra 12 operates on wood pellets, which add a distinct smoky flavor to your pizzas. It offers an authentic wood-fired taste that enthusiasts appreciate.

Quick Heating Time: One standout feature of the Fyra 12 is its fast heat-up time. It reaches cooking temperatures of up to 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes, allowing you to bake pizzas in a matter of minutes.

Efficient Heat Retention: The Fyra 12 is constructed with thick stainless steel that helps retain heat, ensuring consistent and high temperatures for even cooking. This feature contributes to achieving a perfectly cooked crust with a nice char and melt-in-your-mouth toppings.


A Few of the Cons of the Ooni Fyra

While the Ooni Fyra has many positives, it's important to consider its potential downsides:

Learning Curve: Using the Fyra 12 may require some practice, particularly in terms of managing the fire and maintaining the desired temperature. Achieving the perfect balance can take a few attempts to get comfortable with the cooking process.

Limited Cooking Space: The Fyra 12's compact size limits the cooking area, allowing for smaller-sized pizzas. This may be a consideration if you often cook for larger groups or prefer to make multiple pizzas simultaneously.

Dependence on Wood Pellets: While wood pellets provide an authentic flavor, they require proper storage and a steady supply. If you don't have easy access to wood pellets or prefer the convenience of other fuel options, this may be a drawback for you.

Heat Retention: One common concern with the Fyra is that it tends to lose heat relatively quickly. The oven's compact size and lightweight construction make it susceptible to heat dissipation, especially in colder or windier conditions. This may require you to monitor and adjust the heat more frequently during longer cooking sessions.

Fuel Consumption: Another aspect to be aware of is the Fyra's fuel consumption. Due to its design and quick heating capability, it can burn through fuel, particularly wood pellets, at a faster rate compared to some other pizza ovens. This means you may need to have an ample supply of fuel on hand for extended cooking sessions or larger gatherings.


FAV Reviews' Verdict on the Ooni Fyra Pizza Oven

After carefully evaluating the Ooni Fyra pizza oven, we have concluded that it offers a compelling option for pizza enthusiasts who appreciate the convenience of a portable and wood-fired oven. With its compact design, quick heating time, and efficient heat retention, the Fyra 12 delivers delicious pizzas with a desirable wood-fired flavor.

While there may be a slight learning curve and some limitations in cooking space, the overall performance and portability make the Fyra 12 a strong contender in the portable wood-fired outdoor pizza oven market.

The Ooni Fyra 12 is worth considering if you're looking to elevate your pizza-making experience and would like to enjoy wood-fired goodness wherever you go.


Ooni Accessories to Consider

Ooni Accessories for your outdoor pizza oven and portable table

Ooni Premium Hardwood Pellets

When it comes to fueling your Ooni Fyra 12, Ooni Premium Hardwood Pellets are an excellent choice. These specially designed pellets are made from 100% hardwood, ensuring a clean burn and adding a delightful smoky flavor to your pizzas. They are carefully crafted to provide optimal heat and efficiency, allowing you to achieve the perfect cooking temperatures for your favorite recipes. With their consistent quality and performance, Ooni Premium Hardwood Pellets are a reliable fuel option that enhances your overall pizza-making experience.

You may also want to consider a weather-proof wood pellet storage bag.

Ooni Premium Natural Firestarters

Lighting up your Ooni Fyra 12 is a breeze with Ooni Premium Natural Firestarters. These firestarters are made from all-natural materials and are free from any chemicals or additives, ensuring a clean and safe ignition. They are designed to provide a quick and reliable flame, helping you get your pizza oven up and running in no time. Whether you're using wood pellets or other fuel sources, Ooni Premium Natural Firestarters are the perfect complement, making the startup process effortless and efficient.

Carry Cover for Ooni Fyra 12

Protect your Ooni Fyra 12 on the go with the Carry Cover designed specifically for this portable pizza oven. This durable and weather-resistant cover provides reliable protection against the elements, keeping your Fyra safe from rain, dust, and scratches. The cover features a handy strap that makes it easy to carry your oven wherever you want to take it. With the waterproof Carry Cover on, you can confidently transport your Ooni Fyra 12 to picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor gathering, knowing that it's well-protected and ready for delicious pizza-making adventures.   Why not consider an Ooni Fyra 12 bundle with cover included!


FAQs About the Ooni Fyra 12

Are you tired of ordering takeout every time you crave a delicious pizza? Or worse, spending a small fortune at fancy restaurants just to satisfy your taste buds?

Well, the Ooni Fyra 12 Pizza Oven is here to revolutionize the pizza-making experience for you. This compact and stylish oven has become the talk of the town among pizza lovers for all the right reasons. It simplifies the entire process, making it easy for beginners to create restaurant-quality pizzas right at home. With unique features such as its innovative wood pellet burner, this oven guarantees perfectly cooked pizzas in minutes.

In the following list of FAQ, we'll answer all of your questions about what makes the Ooni Fyra 12 Pizza Oven the ultimate solution to your pizza cravings.

How Big Is the Ooni Fyra Oven Space?

The Ooni Fyra oven has a cooking surface of approximately 12 inches in diameter, providing ample space to cook a personal-sized pizza or other delicious dishes.

How Easy Is the Ooni Fyra To Light?

The Ooni Fyra is designed for easy lighting. With the help of Ooni's recommended natural firestarters and hardwood pellets, you can quickly ignite the oven and have it up to cooking temperature in just 15 minutes.

Is The 12 Inch Ooni Big Enough?

Yes, the 12-inch cooking surface of the Ooni Fyra is sufficient for making personal-sized pizzas that are perfect for one or two people. You can also cook other foods like bread, vegetables, or small cuts of meat on the versatile cooking surface.

How Hot Does the Outside Get?

The outer surface of the Ooni Fyra remains relatively cool to the touch during use. While it can get warm, it is designed with insulation to minimize heat transfer and ensure safe handling.

Can You Keep the Ooni Fyra Outside?

While the Ooni Fyra is built with durable materials, it is recommended to protect it from the elements by using a cover or storing it in a dry place when not in use. This will help prolong the lifespan of the oven and ensure optimal performance.

Does The Ooni Fyra Come with A Pizza Peel?

The Ooni Fyra does not automatically come with a pizza peel included. However, on Amazon, Ooni offers a range of Fyra oven bundles, with the majority of them including a pizza peel to enhance your pizza-making experience.
The Fyra comes with a cordierite stone baking board. This pizza stone is durable, easy to clean, and distributes heat evenly.

Does Ooni Fyra 12 Come with Pellets?

The Ooni Fyra 12 does not come with pellets included. You will need to purchase hardwood pellets separately, which are readily available from various retailers and online stores.

What Can You Cook in The Ooni Fyra 12?

The Ooni Fyra 12 is not limited to only pizza recipes. You can also use it to cook a wide variety of foods such as bread, vegetables, seafood, and even desserts. Its high heat and versatility allow for endless culinary creations.

Are Wood Pellets the Best Fuel Choice?

Wood pellets are a popular and convenient fuel choice for the Ooni Fyra. They offer efficient heat and impart a smoky flavor to your dishes. However, personal preferences may vary, and you can't explore other fuel options such as charcoal or gas even with compatible accessories. It's not a multi fuel pizza oven... that said you can take the Fyra oven camping (or wherever) but you better not forget to bring a fuel hopper, a decent amount of fire starter, and have more pellets than you think you will use!

What's the Best Way to Store Wood Pellets?

It's important to keep your wood pellets dry. Some people will put their wood pellets in a plastic bin or barrel. We like the NUUK 20LB Water-Resistant Wood Pellet Storage Bag for Wood Pellets . Not only is it in an extra-large size, it is made of a durable material that is waterproof AND it has a carry handle so you can easily take your Pizza Oven fuel source with you.

How Long Does It Take to Cook A Pizza On The Ooni Fyra?

With its exceptional heat retention and powerful heat output, the Ooni Fyra can cook a pizza in as little as 60-90 seconds. The precise cooking time may vary depending on the specific recipe and desired crust crispness.

How Long Does It Take for The Fyra To Cool Down?

After cooking, the Ooni Fyra will start to cool down within a few minutes. However, it is recommended to allow for a sufficient cool-down period of approximately 1-2 hours before cleaning or handling the oven to ensure safety.


Up Your Backyard Pizza Experience with the Ooni Fyra 12

Ah, let me tell you why the Ooni Fyra 12 is the ultimate pizza lover's dream for outdoor cooking! It's like having your pizzeria right in your backyard, and here's how it can make cooking pizza outdoors super appealing:

  1. The Fyra 12 heats up in a flash, so you can go from dough to delightful pizza in no time. No more waiting around and growling stomachs—just quick and delicious pizza goodness in a matter of minutes!
  2. Whether you're planning a picnic, hitting the beach, or having a backyard shindig, the Fyra 12 is your trusty companion. It's lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, so you can take the pizza party wherever you please. Who doesn't love a portable pizza oven adventure?
  3. Don your chef's hat and unleash your creativity! The Fyra 12 gives you the power to experiment with toppings, sauces, and crusts. Become a pizza Picasso and surprise your taste buds with endless flavor combinations. Who said outdoor cooking can't be fun and fancy?
  4. Get ready for some serious flavor magic! The Fyra 12 uses wood pellets to infuse your pizzas with that unbeatable smoky taste. Every bite will transport you to a cozy Italian trattoria, and your friends will be begging for another slice.

So, my pizza-loving friend, if you want to upgrade your outdoor cooking game, impress your taste buds, and become the envy of your friends, the Ooni Fyra 12 is an absolute must-have.

Say goodbye to boring barbecues and hello to a whole new level of pizza perfection. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering pizza adventure with the Fyra 12—it's worth every delicious slice!

Happy Pizza Making!

Your Fav Reviews Team

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Thank you for reading our article on the Ooni Fyra 12!

P.S.S. - You may also be interested in our other articles about Ooni Ovens

Discover the Top Ooni Pizza Ovens: Which One is Right for You?
If you love making pizza and enjoy the unique flavors of Neapolitan-style pizza, then Ooni pizza ovens might be just what you’re looking for.
Delicious Ooni Pizza Oven Recipes: Try Them Now!
Learn how to make delicious pizza at home with our Ooni pizza recipes! We’ll show you how to make the dough, sauce, and pizzas. Enjoy.
The Best Ooni Pizza Oven Reviews: Find Out What People Are Saying!
Find out what other pizza lovers and home cooks are saying about Ooni pizza ovens and make an informed decision before you buy. Enjoy reading!
Get the Most Out of Your Pizza Oven with These Must-Have Ooni Accessories
Ready to take your Ooni pizza oven to the next level? Our latest blog post shares the must-have accessories that will elevate your pizza-making!

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