When making pizza, one of the most important steps to achieve the perfect slice is sliding the dough onto the oven. To do this, many chefs use metal peels. However, as anyone who has ever tried making pizza at home knows, getting the dough to slide off the metal peels can be tricky. No one wants to end up with a pizza stuck to the peel! Thankfully, there are some simple techniques that can help you achieve a perfectly-smooth slide.
In this blog post, we will explore how to get the pizza dough to slide off metal peels. We will discuss the importance of prepping the peel, the different types of materials to use, and the most effective techniques for sliding the dough. By the end of this post, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tips you need to get your pizza crusts sliding off the peel with ease.
How do you get pizza dough to slide off metal peels?
1. Use a flour-based dusting
One of the best ways to get the pizza dough to slide off metal peels is to use a flour-based dusting. Before placing your dough on the peel, lightly sprinkle a layer of flour over it. This will help create a barrier between the dough and the metal, making it easier for the dough to slide off. It’s important to use a light hand when dusting, as too much flour can make the dough dry out and stick. If you’re having difficulty getting the pizza off the peel after dusting, add a bit more flour to the top of the dough.
2. Generously sprinkle cornmeal
Before you get to the fun part of stretching out your pizza dough and topping it with your favorite toppings, you need to be sure you can get it off the metal pizza peel. To do this, you will need to generously sprinkle cornmeal on the metal peel before you place the pizza dough on it.
The cornmeal will act as a barrier between the metal peel and the dough, allowing the pizza to slide off it without sticking. Make sure to spread the cornmeal evenly across the entire metal peel and use enough so that the pizza dough won’t stick to it.
3. Use a dough docker
Using a dough docker can be an effective way to make sure your pizza dough slides off a metal peel. A dough docker is a rolling pin-like device with small spikes on its surface. To use it, roll it over your dough and it will poke small holes into it, which will help the dough release from the peel more easily.
This is an especially useful tool if you’re making a thicker crust, as it will help reduce sticking. Be sure to use a light touch when rolling the docker, as too much pressure can cause the dough to tear.
4. Create a slicker surface
If you’re having trouble getting your pizza dough to slide off a metal peel, there are a few things you can do. One of the easiest is to create a slicker surface. You can do this by lightly sprinkling some semolina flour or cornmeal over the peel. This will provide a small amount of lubrication, which can help the dough slip off more easily.
Additionally, you can lightly spray the peel with oil or use a pastry brush to spread a thin layer of oil over the peel. This will provide even more lubrication and make it easier for the dough to slide off.
5. Grease the metal peel
The fifth step in getting your pizza dough to slide off a metal peel is to grease it. Greasing the metal peel helps reduce friction, which in turn helps the dough slide off more easily. Before each use, be sure to grease your peel with a thin layer of oil. Olive oil or vegetable oil works best, but you can also use butter or shortening. When greasing the peel, make sure to avoid using too much oil as this can damage the pizza. If you do use too much oil, use a paper towel to wipe away the excess before using the peel.
6. Apply a non-stick pizza dough solution
The sixth step of getting pizza dough to slide off metal peels is to apply a non-stick pizza dough solution. This solution helps reduce the amount of sticking that occurs when the dough rests on the metal peel, which makes it easier to slide off.
The solution is applied before the pizza is rolled out and before it is placed on the peel. To apply the solution, use a pastry brush to lightly coat the peel with the solution and then let it sit for a few minutes before rolling out the pizza dough. This helps to ensure that the dough won’t stick when it’s time to slide it off the peel.
7. Sprinkle more flour
The seventh step to get the pizza dough to slide off the metal peels is to sprinkle more flour. Sprinkling a light layer of flour on your metal peel before placing the pizza dough on it will reduce friction between the two surfaces. The flour will act as a buffer and make it easier to slide the dough off the peel. If the dough still sticks, you can add a bit more flour until the dough slides off easily. Keep in mind, however, that too much flour will dry out the dough, so use it sparingly.
8. Rotate the peel as you slide it off
After you’ve placed the pizza dough on a metal peel, turn the peel slightly while gently sliding it away from the dough. This will help keep the dough from sticking to the metal surface. If necessary, you can also use a little bit of cornmeal or flour to help keep the pizza dough from sticking. Be sure to rotate the peel as you slide it off; this will help ensure that the pizza dough slides off the metal peel evenly and without sticking.
In conclusion, getting pizza dough to slide off metal peels can be a tricky process. However, with the right combination of cornmeal and flour, the dough should be able to slide off with ease. Additionally, heating the peel and taking the time to properly shape the dough can also help it to slide off with ease. With these tips, you’ll be able to get your pizza dough off the peel in no time!
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