I’ve had the privilege of testing the Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer. As one of the few people in the UK to get my hands on this appliance, I’ve spent the past week pushing its limits, cooking everything from Southern feasts to artisan pizzas. The verdict? It’s a versatile outdoor cooking powerhouse with room for improvement.
First Impressions
Unboxing the Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 was a delight. The branded packaging set the tone, and the quick, hassle-free setup meant I was cooking within 15 minutes. The oven’s design is a step up from Ninja’s previous appliances, with a sleek, high-end look and a pop of colour that I’d love to see expanded (Ninja, if you’re listening—a bold orange would be smashing!).
Design and Build Quality
The oven feels solid and well-built, matching the quality I’ve come to expect from Ninja products. Its modern, eye-catching design makes it a standout in any outdoor setup. While it’s built to last, the oven’s functionality is where it truly shines.
Key Features
The Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven offers a range of cooking functions, making it a true multi-tasker:
- Smoking low and slow
- High-heat roasting
- Gourmet roasting
- Baking
- Artisan-style pizza cooking
However, the oven-style design means it’s not ideal for traditional grilling tasks like smash burgers, where you’d want to lift a lid for quick adjustments.
Ease of Use
Despite its multifunctionality, the oven is incredibly user-friendly. The controls are intuitive, and it heats up in just a couple of minutes. However, a word of caution—the oven gets HOT. Quality gloves and longer tools are essential for safely manoeuvring food inside.
Performance
The Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 excels in delivering consistent, high-quality results. Here are some standout dishes I’ve cooked:
1. Southern Comfort Feast
- Smoked ribs
- Sweetcorn
- Cornbread
The oven handled these different cooking methods simultaneously, although the tray was packed to capacity. A multi-level accessory rack would be a fantastic addition for larger cooks.
2. High-Heat Mediterranean Feast
- Charred lamb chops
- Blistered bell peppers
- Crispy potatoes
This meal highlighted the oven’s ability to deliver a perfect char while maintaining moisture and flavour.
3. Artisan Pizza
Cooking directly on the pizza stone, the oven produced crispy, woodfire-flavoured crusts that rivalled traditional pizza ovens.
While the cooking space is somewhat limited, the oven’s versatility more than compensates.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning is straightforward. The tray and rack wash easily in warm soapy water, and the interior wipes down with a damp cloth. Remember, it’s a smoker too, so don’t fret about keeping it pristine inside—it adds to the character!
Value for Money
Since I received the oven from Ninja UK for review, I can’t comment on its price. However, given its sturdy build, versatility, and performance, it’s a standout option in the outdoor cooking market.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Multi-Functionality: Smoke, roast, bake, and more—all in one appliance.
- Ease of Use: Quick setup and intuitive controls.
- Build Quality: Sturdy and sleek with a premium feel.
- Versatility: Handles everything from ribs to pizzas effortlessly.
Cons
- Accessories Needed: A tool for sliding trays in and out would be a lifesaver at high temperatures.
- Cooking Space: A multi-level rack would expand capacity.
- Cover Not Included: Essential for the unpredictable UK weather.
- No Temperature Probe: Adding one would make low-and-slow cooking easier to monitor.
Final Thoughts: Grill or Oven?
The Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven is a versatile, reliable companion for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. While it doesn’t replicate the hands-on thrill of managing a live fire, it offers convenience and exceptional results, especially for busy BBQers.
So, should you choose the Ninja Woodfire Grill or the 8-in-1 Oven? Here’s my take:
- The Grill is perfect for traditional BBQ tasks like burgers and quick sears.
- The Oven, however, wins for its versatility. From smoking to baking and making pizza, it does it all with ease.
If I had to pick one, the oven takes the crown—it’s like having a multifunctional outdoor kitchen at your fingertips.
Check out the Ninja Woodfire™ 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven here.
So, at the risk of seeming “picky”, where’s the ‘woodfire’ component? I don;t see an7y reference to actual burning of wood or anything else that makes me think this isn’t just another electric oven…
Good shout – let me clear that up! So, the “Woodfire” part comes from the little smoke box on the outside of the oven where you load wood pellets. You can use different types of wood or blends, depending on the flavour you’re after – think classic hickory, sweet applewood, or a cheeky mesquite mix for a proper punch.
Once you ignite the pellets (don’t worry, the oven does the hard work there), they smoulder and pump out this lush smoke that infuses your food while it cooks. It’s not a roaring bonfire – more like a controlled, steady smoke that brings the woodfire flavour without you having to lug around logs or babysit a fire.
Hope that clears it up! Let me know if you want to chat more about it – always happy to talk smoke and flavours.
Cheers,
Lee @ Smoke & Sear