best wooden pizza peel
The best wooden pizza peel stands as an essential tool for both professional pizzaiolos and home cooking enthusiasts. Crafted from premium hardwood, typically maple or beech, these peels feature a smooth, flat surface with a tapered edge that effortlessly slides under pizzas. The long handle, typically 14-16 inches, provides optimal control and safety when maneuvering pizzas in and out of hot ovens. The wooden construction, measuring approximately 14x22 inches for the paddle, maintains a natural non-stick surface that allows raw pizza dough to release easily. Unlike metal alternatives, wooden peels absorb excess moisture from the dough, preventing sticking issues during transfer. The peel's lightweight design, typically weighing between 2-3 pounds, ensures comfortable handling during extended cooking sessions. The wood's natural properties also make it resistant to heat damage and warping, while its slightly porous surface creates the perfect amount of friction to hold cornmeal or flour for smooth pizza transfers. These peels often feature hanging holes for convenient storage and come pre-treated with food-grade mineral oil for durability and longevity.