Pizza stones arrive in various shapes and estimates and are somewhat modest to purchase – at any rate, contrasted with developing a block broiler on your terrace!
I like square or square shape stones since they fit well in my stove and proposition a touch of room on one or the other side of my pizza. So, how o use and clean pizza stone?
(I used to have a round pizza stone. However, I occasionally spill pizza fixings into my stove because there wasn’t much additional room around the edges.)
How To Clean a Pizza Stone
Cleaning a pizza stone is a simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to ensure the stone remains in good condition and doesn’t retain any unwanted flavors.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a pizza stone:
Allow the Stone to Cool
After using your pizza stone, please turn off the oven and allow it to cool completely. Please do not attempt to clean the stone while it’s still hot, as it can cause damage and increase the risk of burns.
Remove Excess Residue
Use a spatula or a stiff brush to scrape off any excess food, cheese, or burnt bits from the surface of the pizza stone. Be gentle to avoid scratching the stone.
Avoid Soap and Water
Pizza stones are porous and can absorb liquids, including soap. Never use soap or submerge the stone in water; this can ruin the stone and create a soapy taste in your future pizzas.
Dry Cleaning
To gently remove stubborn or stuck-on residue, use a dry cloth or a soft brush to scrub the surface. Don’t worry if some discoloration remains; it’s normal for a well-seasoned pizza stone.
Salt Paste (if Needed)
If there are stubborn stains or grease on the stone, create a salt paste by mixing water and coarse salt. Spread the paste on the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth. Once clean, wipe away any excess salt residue.
Baking Soda Paste (If Needed)
Another option for tough stains is to create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains, leave it for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth. Wipe away any remaining paste.
Season the Stone (Optional)
Over time, the seasoning on the pizza stone may wear off. To maintain its non-stick properties, you can season the stone occasionally by lightly rubbing it with a thin layer of cooking oil before heating it in the oven for an hour.
Rinse (Optional)
If you use a salt or baking soda paste, rinse the stone under running water. However, make sure to dry the stone thoroughly before using it again.
Storage
Store the pizza stone in a cool, dry place once it is clean and dry. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of it to prevent any potential damage.
What is the Best Way to Clean a Pizza Stone?
The best way to clean a pizza stone is without soap or water. After using the pizza stone, allow it to cool completely. Then, remove any excess residue or stuck-on food by gently scraping it off with a spatula or stiff brush. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the stone.
You can create a paste using coarse salt and water or baking soda and water for stubborn stains or grease. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth to lift the stains.
Rinse the stone under running water only if necessary, but dry it thoroughly before using it again.
Avoid soap, as pizza stones are porous and absorb liquids, leaving unwanted flavors in your future pizzas. Also, never submerge the stone in water, damaging it and compromising its integrity.
For periodic maintenance, you can season the pizza stone by lightly rubbing it with a thin layer of cooking oil before heating it in the oven for an hour. This will help maintain its non-stick properties.
Store the clean and dry pizza stone in a cool, dry place, ensuring not to stack heavy objects on top of it to prevent damage.