Okay, so I decided to build an outdoor brick oven for making pizza. I’ve always loved a good wood-fired pizza, and I figured, “How hard could it be?” Turns out, it’s a bit of a project, but totally worth it!
Getting Started
First, I spent a good chunk of time watching videos and reading stuff online. I needed to figure out the basics, like what kind of bricks to use, how to build a solid base, and the general shape of the oven.
Then I gathered all materials that I probably need:
- Firebricks (the ones that can handle super high heat)
- Regular bricks for the outside
- Cement and mortar
- Sand and gravel for the foundation
- Some metal pieces for support and the oven door
- A shovel, trowel, level, and other basic tools
Building the Base
The base is super important. I dug out a good-sized area in my backyard and filled it with gravel and sand. I made sure it was all level and compacted really well. This is what the whole oven is going to sit on, so it has to be solid.
Then, I built a basic brick structure for the base. I used regular bricks and mortar, nothing fancy. I just made sure it was the right size and shape for the oven I had in mind. I checked it every few layers, make sure every part is level.
Building the Oven
This is where the firebricks come in. I started laying them out in a dome shape. It’s kind of like building an igloo, but with bricks. I used a simple wooden form to help me get the shape right. It was tricky, and I had to cut some bricks to make them fit.
I mixed up the mortar, it should specifically used for high heat. And carefully put it between the bricks. I worked slowly, making sure each brick was in the right place. It took time, but gradually the dome started to take shape.
Finishing Touches
Once the dome was done, I added a chimney. It’s important for letting the smoke out. I also built a small brick archway at the front for the oven opening.
I fashioned a simple metal door to help keep the heat in. And I added some extra bricks around the outside of the dome, just to make it look nicer. It’s kind of rustic, but I like it.
First Firing!
After letting the mortar dry for a few days, it was time for the first firing. I built a small fire inside the oven and gradually increased it over a few hours. It should be heated up slowly to cure the mortar and bricks.
Finally, I cooked my first pizza! It was amazing! The crust was crispy, the cheese was bubbly, and it had that delicious smoky flavor. All that work was definitely worth it. Now,I can cook pizza, bread and even roast meat and so on!
