DeliVita Wood-Fired Oven (Chilli Red)

How long does it take to heat up the DeliVita oven?

The oven reaches its maximum temperature of 550°C in approximately 25 minutes. This rapid heating time is achieved through the efficient clay and stone interior design that absorbs and retains heat quickly. Start with small kindling and gradually add larger pieces of seasoned hardwood for best results. The oven is ready for cooking when the interior walls turn from black to clear white.

What size pizza can I cook in this oven?

The cooking area measures 540mm x 500mm, which comfortably accommodates a 12-inch pizza. This size is perfect for individual pizzas or sharing between two people. The circular cooking area allows for easy pizza rotation during cooking, ensuring even browning. You can also cook multiple smaller pizzas simultaneously if preferred.

What types of food can I cook besides pizza?

The oven excels at cooking spatchcock chicken, whole sea bass, leg of lamb, joints of beef and vegetable roasts. It functions as a BBQ for steaks and burgers, a hot smoker for fish and meats and a tandoor for naan bread and marinated meats. The high temperatures are perfect for searing whilst the retained heat allows for slower roasting. Vegetables, bread and desserts also cook beautifully.

What type of wood should I use?

Use only seasoned hardwoods such as oak, beech, birch, or fruit woods like apple and cherry. Avoid softwoods like pine or treated timber which can produce harmful chemicals and poor flavours. The wood should be dry with moisture content below 20% for clean burning. Split the wood into pieces that fit easily through the oven door opening.

How portable is the oven and can I move it easily?

Weighing 30kg with dimensions of 64 x 37 x 35cm, the oven is designed for portability whilst maintaining cooking performance. Two people can lift and move it safely when cool. The tabletop design means no permanent installation is required. It fits in most car boots and can be transported to different locations for outdoor events or camping.

Do I need any special installation or setup?

No special installation is required. Simply place the oven on a stable, level, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials. Ensure adequate clearance above and around the oven for safety. A sturdy table or purpose-built stand works well. The oven is ready to use immediately after positioning - just add wood and light the fire.

How do I maintain and clean the oven?

Allow the oven to cool completely before cleaning. Remove ash and debris with a brush or vacuum. The clay interior is self-cleaning at high temperatures, burning off food residues. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth when cool. Store in a dry location or use a weather cover if keeping outdoors. Regular use actually improves the oven's performance as it seasons the interior.

What's the difference between this and gas pizza ovens?

Wood-fired ovens reach higher temperatures than most gas alternatives and provide authentic smoky flavours impossible with gas. The radiant heat from the clay and stone creates superior cooking conditions for pizza bases. Wood firing requires more skill and attention but delivers restaurant-quality results. Gas ovens offer convenience but cannot match the flavour complexity and cooking performance of wood-fired cooking.