The Fresh Loaf

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Lava Rocks for steam, how to use

Mark Sealey's picture
Mark Sealey

Lava Rocks for steam, how to use

Just bought these lava rocks and this pan.

To get steam, is it as simple as putting a handful of the (cold!) lava rocks into the pan at the same time as the (electric) oven is turned on, heating them up… 'blind'; then pouring over a cup of (cold/warm/boiling?) tap water as the dough is left in the oven?

Do I need to wash them first, please?

TIA!

therearenotenoughnoodlesintheworld's picture
therearenotenou...

Not an expert so I would encourage you to track down detailed guidance.  

However, just some thoughts that may help your search.  Probably best to ensure there is nothing unwanted in them if you are going to use them for baking.  You may also want to find details on a good initial heat cycle (At a minimum you would probably need to go well above the cooking temperature of your oven to ensure you burn of anything volatile at your baking temperature).  

I would also beware if there is any sulphurous odour when heated or steamed- even a small amount may transfer to your food and the steam may only enhance that.

When making steam, I find ice is easier to work with than water.

P.S. Personally I would only get something like this from a cooking supplier who warrants their stone for food.  Industrial processes can leave lots of unwanted traces - hence why food grade comes at a premium.

Mark Sealey's picture
Mark Sealey

Thanks, @therearenote!

Everything you say duly noted :-)

CalBeachBaker's picture
CalBeachBaker

I use the bottom of the broiler pan that came with the oven and some bbq lava rocks (food safe) I got from a home improvement store on the floor of the oven.

I rinsed the lava rocks 2-3 times to get rid of the dust and grit.

My gas stove vents pretty aggressively so I pour about 500ml/ pint of boiling water into the rock filled tray after loading the oven and final closing of the door. This works reasonably well considering the venting issue.

Good luck

Tony

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barryvabeach's picture
barryvabeach

Make sure you do not spill any water on the glass oven door - Peter Reinhart suggests laying a towel over the door to prevent errant drops of water, which can cause the glass to shatter. 

Mark Sealey's picture
Mark Sealey

Yes, and I read where he talks about the heart-rending reaction: "Oh the cost!"

Thanks :-)

Mark Sealey's picture
Mark Sealey

Thanks, Tony!

If I use, shall certainly wash first.