The Granite Baking Stone


BAKING STONE The baking stone is for every one who likes baking and producing pizzas. Only very few households will have a stone oven. The baking stone is therefore the closest you are likely to get to the magnificent and tasty results from an Italian stone oven. Here are a couple of endorsements from acknowledged chefs: Kille Enna: " The baking stone represents a desire for the authentic Italian stone ovens. But it is so practical and gives the bread a stable and crusty body far superior to ordinary baking." Carol Field: (the Italian baker) " The baking stone is one of three basic requirements ( the others are a set of scales and a dough scraper). It is an excellent replacement for the stone base of a professional stoneoven. It will distribute strong heat evenly and absorb the moisture of the dough, which will give your bread a deliciously firm crust." The granite baking stone measures approximately 35 x 40 cm. and will fit into most ovens. It can also be supplied to measure. Tip: Place the bakingstone on a tray in the lowest part of the oven. In a gas oven place directly on the bottom. Tip: The baking stone will absorb the heat very slowly but also cool down very slowly. Therefore add an extra 20 minutes to the preheating time. On the other hand it will retain the heat for quite a while. This is a clear advantage in many situations. For example a pizza will remain warm and crusty if left on the stone.
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		Back to Index Tip: Bread baked with yeast gets an extra "push" and expands more than usual when baked on the stone. Tip: When you are baking bread or pizza leave the stone in the oven also , because the stone will provide an even distribution of the radiant heat and compensate for the imperfections of most ovens. Tip: When the bread/pizza is placed directly on the stone, the slightly porous surface will absorb moisture from the dough giving you a firm and crusty surface. This moisture will again be released as steam improving the overall result. Tip: Try making bisquits on the baking stone. They are very good.