Burning Love: Mastering Your Wood-Fired Oven with Ben Guilford

Building your own wood-fired pizza oven? Yeah, that’s the dream, and in this episode, Eric G chats with Ben Guilford from the Fire Brick Company to spill the beans on just how easy-peasy it can actually be. We dive deep into the nitty-gritty of constructing your very own oven and trust me, it's not just for pizza—think roasting, baking, and a whole lot of deliciousness. Ben's got tips for mastering the art of wood-fired cooking, and we tackle the hilarious reality of your first pizza cookout—spoiler alert: it might just be a burnt offering. So grab a slice (or a whole pie) and tune in as we serve up all the juicy details on pizza perfection and oven building shenanigans! If you’re looking to transform your backyard into a gourmet pizza haven, then this chat with Ben Guilford from the Fire Brick Company is just the ticket! Ever wondered how to build your own wood-fired pizza oven? Eric G dives deep into the nitty-gritty with Ben, who shares the ins and outs of constructing these beauties. We’re talking about the joys and challenges of building something that not only cooks pizza but also turns your outdoor space into a social hub. And let's be honest, nothing says ‘I’ve got my life together’ like a wood-fired oven in your backyard. Ben explains how the process isn’t just about slapping some bricks together. Oh no, there’s a method to the madness! From the right materials to the all-important curing process, they cover it all with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of sarcasm. Plus, Eric shares his personal experience of building his oven and the learning curves that come with it. Spoiler alert: there’s pizza involved, and it’s delicious. The conversation takes a turn as they discuss the various types of ovens available and who should really be investing in one. Is it for the casual home cook, or are you planning to host a pizza party that rivals a small wedding? Eric and Ben break down the options, so you know exactly what you’re getting into. And let’s face it, this is not just a pizza oven; it’s a lifestyle choice. They also touch on the versatility of these ovens—think roasting meats and baking artisan bread, not just your classic Margherita. So for anyone who’s ever thought, “Wouldn’t it be cool to cook like a pro at home?” this episode is a treasure trove of insight and inspiration. And if you’re worried about building it yourself, fret not! Ben assures us that his kits are user-friendly and designed for the DIY-er in all of us. We’re talking about a build process that’s more like following a recipe than constructing a rocket ship. They even tackle the common fear of messing up the brick-laying process because let’s be real, who hasn’t made a mistake on a DIY project? So whether you're a seasoned builder or someone who thinks ‘DIY’ stands for ‘Don’t Involve Yourself’, this episode is packed with laughs, tips, and maybe even a few cravings for pizza. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and start your wood-fired adventure! Takeaways: Building your own wood-fired pizza oven is easier than it sounds, just grab some patience and a sense of adventure! The Fire Brick Company offers tons of resources, including free video guides, to help you nail that pizza oven build. Cooking with a wood-fired oven isn't just about pizza—think roasted veggies, lamb, and even baking bread! Don't rush your oven build; it's a labor of love that requires time and care to get it just right. Hosting a pizza party? Make your guests do the work! Cooking together is way more fun than being a one-person show. If you think you can't build a pizza oven, just remember: if you can handle Lego, you can handle this! Links referenced in this episode: aroundthehouseonline.com monumentgrills.com thefirebrickco.com aerobroom.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Monument Grills Firebrick Company