When making pizza in an oven, the ideal mode to use depends on the type of pizza you want to achieve. Both convection mode and grill mode have their advantages, so let's explore each option:
Convection Mode: Convection mode uses a fan to circulate hot air evenly throughout the oven, promoting even cooking and browning. It can be a good choice for baking pizzas, especially if you prefer a pizza with a crisp and evenly browned crust. The circulating air helps to distribute heat more evenly, resulting in a well-cooked pizza with a nicely browned crust.
Grill Mode: Grill mode, also known as broil mode in some ovens, uses direct heat from the top heating element to cook the food. This mode is useful for quickly achieving a nicely browned and charred topping, mimicking the traditional pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. If you prefer a pizza with a charred or blistered topping, using the grill mode can help achieve that effect.
Here's a suggestion for combining both modes:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to a high temperature, typically around 450-500°F (230-260°C). This ensures a hot oven for baking the pizza.
Start with convection mode: Begin by baking the pizza in convection mode. This allows the crust to cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture while ensuring that the toppings and cheese cook through.
Finish with grill mode: Once the crust has cooked and the toppings are almost done, you can switch to grill mode for a short duration to give the pizza a charred or blistered appearance. Keep a close eye on the pizza during this step to avoid burning the toppings or crust.
Remember, oven settings and temperatures can vary, so it's always a good idea to follow the instructions provided in the pizza recipe you're using. Additionally, it's recommended to use a pizza stone or a baking sheet placed on the middle rack of the oven to help achieve a crisp and evenly cooked crust.