Question

What is the best way to pre-steam a deck oven?

Answer 1

Pre-steaming a deck oven is an essential step to create a proper baking environment for certain types of bread and other baked goods. The steam helps to form a thin, crisp crust on the bread while allowing it to expand and rise properly. Here's a step-by-step guide on the best way to pre-steam a deck oven:

1. Fill a steam pan or tray:

   • Start by filling a steam pan or a shallow, oven-safe tray with water. Make sure it fits comfortably inside your deck oven.

2. Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your deck oven to the desired baking temperature. The exact temperature will depend on the recipe and the type of baked goods you are making.

3. Place the steam pan in the oven:

   • Once the oven reaches the desired baking temperature, place the filled steam pan on the oven's bottom or floor. Some deck ovens have dedicated steam injection systems, so you might need to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using the system.

4. Close the oven door:

   • Close the oven door immediately after placing the steam pan inside to prevent steam from escaping.

5. Allow steam to generate:

   • Let the steam pan remain in the oven for several minutes (usually 5-10 minutes) to allow sufficient steam to generate. The time needed for steam generation will depend on your oven's design and how much steam is required.

6. Remove the steam pan:

   • After the desired steaming time has elapsed, carefully open the oven door and remove the steam pan. Be cautious as the oven and steam pan can be hot.

7. Load the bread or baked goods:

   • Quickly load your prepared bread or baked goods onto the oven deck for baking. The deck should be hot, and the steam will create the optimal baking environment.

8. Bake as usual:

   • Proceed with the regular baking process, following your recipe's instructions for temperature and baking time.

Keep in mind that not all baked goods require steam, so you may only need to pre-steam the deck oven for specific bread recipes or other items that benefit from a crispy crust and proper oven spring. Always refer to your recipes for guidance on whether steam is necessary and how to pre-steam your deck oven effectively.