Unveiling The Secrets: How To Make A Calzone In Your Ooni Oven

Making calzones in your Ooni oven is a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or indulging in a cozy meal. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the art of creating mouthwatering calzones in your Ooni.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Dough:

• 500g (3 1/2 cups) strong bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 200ml (1 cup) warm water

For the Filling:

• 500g (1 pound) ground beef or sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
• Add the olive oil and warm water and mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

• While the dough is rising, prepare the filling.
• Brown the ground beef or sausage in a skillet. Drain off any excess fat.
• Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Calzones

• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
• Roll out each piece of dough into a 12-inch circle.
• Spread 1/4 of the tomato sauce in the center of each circle.
• Top with 1/4 of the ground beef mixture, cheese, and vegetables.
• Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.

4. Preheat the Ooni Oven

• Preheat your Ooni oven to its highest heat setting.
• Use a pizza stone or baking board to insert the calzones into the oven.

5. Bake the Calzones

• Bake the calzones for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Let Cool and Serve

• Remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

7. Enjoy Your Homemade Calzones!

Savor the deliciousness of your homemade calzones. The crispy crust, savory filling, and melted cheese will leave you wanting more.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
• Preheat the Ooni oven thoroughly to ensure an even bake.
• Rotate the calzones in the oven halfway through baking to prevent burning.
• Let the calzones cool slightly before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.

Variations

• Experiment with different fillings, such as spinach and ricotta, pepperoni and cheese, or ham and pineapple.
• Add herbs and spices to the filling for extra flavor.
• Brush the calzones with olive oil or melted butter before baking for a golden crust.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What is the best type of flour to use for calzone dough?
A: Strong bread flour is recommended for its high protein content, which gives the dough its strength and elasticity.

Q: How can I prevent the calzones from burning?
A: Rotate the calzones in the oven halfway through baking and keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Q: Can I make the calzones ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the calzones and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow them to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.