Our Ambassador: Max from Grill Hunters
Max from Grill Hunters is one of our most exciting and creative influencers! With over 1.2 million Instagram followers, Max has built a dedicated community by sharing his passion for live-fire cooking in ways that resonate with outdoor cooking enthusiasts of all levels.
Known for his authenticity and knack for making grilling accessible and fun, Max has partnered with several well-known brands, and we are thrilled to be one of them.
His content not only showcases mouth-watering meals but also celebrates the tradition of cooking with fire—an approach perfectly aligned with the spirit of Authentic Pizza Ovens.
We're lucky to have Max on board, bringing his unique flair and love for wood-fired cooking to our ovens!
Make sure to follow Max on Instagram.
Meet Max of Grill Hunters
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Max, it’s great to have you as our Ambassador! You’ve created such a dedicated community around live-fire cooking. Can you tell us a bit about how your journey with grilling and outdoor cooking started?
Max: Thanks for having me! My journey with live-fire cooking began at our family cabin. Growing up, we lived off the land, growing our own food, and spending hours prepping and cooking meals.
There’s a kind of magic in cooking with fire—it’s deeply connected to nature and tradition. Those experiences instilled a passion for the entire process, from farm to flame.
Now, as a father, I’m passing these traditions on to my children, teaching them not just how to cook but the patience, creativity, and resourcefulness it brings.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: That’s such a rich experience. How did it evolve into Grill Hunters and your massive following?
Max: Over the years, I turned my passion into a community by sharing my journey on social media. I wanted to show people that live-fire cooking is for everyone, not just professional chefs.
It’s something you can do in your backyard, at the beach, or even in the woods. The goal with Grill Hunters has always been to inspire people to embrace outdoor cooking and make it accessible to all levels.
I’ve also partnered with brands that believe in quality and innovation, which has allowed me to grow and connect with even more outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Speaking of partnerships, we’re thrilled to have you as part of the Authentic Pizza Ovens family. What led you to choose an Authentic Pizza Oven?
Max: I love working with brands that share my passion for quality, and Authentic Pizza Ovens definitely does. I started with a Traditional Authentic Pizza Oven and was so impressed that I decided to add a Maximus PRIME Portable Pizza Oven for my other space.
The Maximus PRIME is perfect for events and gatherings because it’s portable and offers that genuine wood-fired cooking experience. And I have to say, the bold red color of the Maximus PRIME looks fantastic in my outdoor setup! It’s a showstopper.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: That’s awesome to hear! How has the Maximus PRIME changed your approach to outdoor cooking?
Max: It’s been a game-changer. The oven heats up quickly, and I get perfect pizzas in just a few minutes, complete with that crispy, smoky crust you can only get from wood fire.
But what I love most is its versatility. It’s great for pizza, of course, but I’ve cooked everything from Tomahawk steaks to lobster tails in there. It’s amazing how the Maximus PRIME brings out deep, rich flavors whether I’m grilling, roasting, or smoking.
The wood-fired oven really does take outdoor cooking to another level.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: It sounds like you’ve explored a lot with this pizza oven! What are some of your favorite dishes to cook besides pizza?
Max: While I love making pizza, I also like to experiment. I’ve made slow-braised brisket, wood-fired apple crumble, and roasted vegetables. I even baked bread in it!
The oven holds heat really well, so it’s perfect for slow-cooked meals. For me, it’s about pushing the boundaries and seeing what this oven can do.
Each time, I’m discovering new ways to elevate the flavors of the ingredients I use, and that’s what makes it so exciting.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Your creativity is inspiring! What’s one tip you’d give to someone new to using a pizza oven?
Max: I’d say don’t be afraid to experiment! A wood-fired pizza oven isn’t just for pizza—it’s incredibly versatile. Start with something simple, like a margherita pizza, to get a feel for the heat and cooking process.
Once you’re comfortable, try roasting vegetables or grilling a steak. The best part is discovering the unique flavors that wood-fired cooking brings out in all kinds of food.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: That’s great advice. With over 1.2 million Instagram followers, you’ve built a community of outdoor cooking enthusiasts. How has the community shaped your approach to content?
Max: The community means everything. Seeing their excitement and passion for live-fire cooking keeps me motivated. I get messages from people who’ve tried cooking with fire for the first time and are amazed by the experience.
That’s why I keep sharing my recipes, tips, and outdoor cooking ideas. It’s about inspiring others to try something new, and knowing I’m helping others discover the joy of cooking with fire is incredibly rewarding.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Your authenticity is what makes your content so engaging. Why do you think people resonate so strongly with your approach?
Max: I think people connect with authenticity, and that’s something I strive to bring to everything I do. Live-fire cooking is genuine and raw, and it doesn’t require fancy equipment.
I always emphasize that anyone can grill, no matter where they are. It’s a universal experience, and the joy of cooking with fire is something we all share. I’m just happy to play a part in bringing that experience to more people.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: That connection really shines through. In your opinion, what makes Authentic Pizza Ovens a standout in the outdoor cooking space?
Max: Authentic Pizza Ovens is dedicated to quality and craftsmanship. They aren’t just selling ovens—they’re selling an experience. The materials, the design, the heat retention—everything is thought through to create a product that performs at the highest level.
I appreciate that they care about the traditions of wood-fired cooking. And let’s not forget, they offer free shipping across the country, which makes these high-quality ovens accessible to more people.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Speaking of tradition, you’re also passing down these traditions to your kids. How has live-fire cooking influenced your family life?
Max: Live-fire cooking is a great way to teach kids patience, creativity, and respect for food. It’s hands-on, and they get to see the process from start to finish.
I’m grateful to share that with them and show them the value of cooking from scratch. It’s a bonding experience and a way for us to spend quality time together outdoors.
Plus, they love eating what they helped make, especially the pizzas!
Authentic Pizza Ovens: That’s wonderful. For anyone inspired by this interview, what’s one piece of advice you’d offer to someone thinking about starting their own outdoor cooking journey?
Max: Start small and keep it simple. You don’t need a ton of equipment or experience to enjoy outdoor cooking. If you’re new, start with basic recipes, like a classic pizza or grilled vegetables.
A wood-fired pizza oven like the Maximus PRIME is a great investment because it’s versatile and easy to use. And most importantly, enjoy the process—it’s not just about the food but the experience and the memories you create.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Thank you so much, Max. Before we wrap up, where can people follow you and see your latest creations?
Max: Thanks for having me! You can find me on Instagram at @GrillHunters, where I post recipes, tips, and all my latest adventures in live-fire cooking. Whether you’re new to grilling or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone in the Grill Hunters community.
Authentic Pizza Ovens: Thanks again, Max! We’re so glad to have you as part of the Authentic Pizza Ovens family, and we can’t wait to see what you cook up next!
Max’s passion for live-fire cooking is contagious. With the Maximus PRIME Pizza Oven, he’s showing us that cooking outdoors is more than just making meals—it’s an experience that brings people together and adds excitement to every dish.
Follow Max on Instagram for endless inspiration, and check out Authentic Pizza Ovens to start your own journey with a wood-fired pizza oven.
Follow Authentic Pizza Ovens & Grill Hunters on Instagram for inspiration.
Recipes
Here’s a fiery and flavorful recipe for Spicy Drumsticks and Chicken Wings cooked in a wood-fired oven.
The intense heat creates crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy, and the wood smoke adds an irresistible flavor.
Ingredients:
• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 8 chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite spicy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a sweet-spicy kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Wood-Fired Oven:
• Heat your wood-fired oven to about 450°F to 500°F (230°C to 260°C). You want a steady, high heat for crisping the chicken skin. Ensure the coals are evenly spread, and the flame isn’t too intense.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
• In a large bowl, combine olive oil, hot sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to create a spicy marinade.
• Add the drumsticks and chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors, or refrigerate for a few hours for deeper seasoning.
3. Cooking in the Pizza Oven:
• Place the marinated chicken drumsticks and wings on a cast-iron skillet or grill-safe baking tray. For extra crispiness, you can put them on a wire rack over the tray to allow the heat to circulate around the chicken.
• Place the tray in the wood-fired oven. The high heat will crisp the skin quickly, so watch them closely to avoid burning.
• Cook the drumsticks and wings for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should have a crispy, golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Finishing Touches:
• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh contrast to the spice.
5. Serving Suggestions:
• Serve the spicy drumsticks and wings with cool dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, and alongside grilled veggies or corn on the cob.
• If you like more heat, drizzle some extra hot sauce on top or serve with a side of spicy dipping sauce.
Pro Tips:
• Adjust the spice level: Increase or decrease the cayenne pepper and hot sauce based on your heat tolerance. Adding honey to the marinade balances out the heat and adds a nice caramelization.
• Wood choice: For extra flavor, use hardwoods like oak, cherry, or hickory, which infuse the chicken with a subtle smoky aroma.
These Spicy Wood-Fired Chicken Drumsticks and Wings are perfect for game days, pizza parties, or any outdoor gathering! Enjoy!
Here’s a delicious recipe for Wood-Fired Pizza with Prosciutto, Burrata, and Fresh Basil.
The combination of creamy burrata, salty prosciutto, and aromatic basil makes for an elegant yet simple pizza that highlights the benefits of cooking in a wood-fired oven.
Ingredients:
Pizza Dough
- 1 ball of pizza dough (about 250g) – store-bought or homemade
Toppings
- ½ cup tomato sauce (or crushed San Marzano tomatoes)
- 1 ball of burrata cheese, drained and torn into chunks
- 4-6 slices of prosciutto
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Wood-Fired Oven
- Heat the wood-fired oven to around 700°F to 800°F (370°C to 425°C). The high temperature will cook the pizza quickly, creating a crisp crust with a charred, smoky flavor.
- Make sure the oven floor is hot, and the flames are steady but not too aggressive.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a thin round (about 10-12 inches in diameter). Try to leave a slightly thicker edge for a nice puffy crust.
- Transfer the dough onto a pizza peel dusted with flour or semolina to ensure easy sliding into the oven.
3. Add the Tomato Sauce
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch of the crust uncovered.
- Lightly drizzle some olive oil over the sauce and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Bake the Pizza in the Wood-Fired Oven
- Slide the pizza onto the hot oven floor, positioning it where the heat is strong but not too close to the flames.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 3 minutes, rotating the pizza halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pizza should have a blistered crust with some charred spots, and the base should be crisp.
5. Add the Prosciutto and Burrata
- Once the pizza is out of the oven, immediately tear and place the burrata chunks evenly over the pizza. The residual heat will slightly melt the burrata, making it creamy.
- Drape the prosciutto slices on top of the burrata.
6. Finishing Touches
- Garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and aroma.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the pizza and season with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, if desired.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to taste.
7. Serve
- Slice and enjoy your Wood-Fired Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza immediately while it’s fresh and hot.
Pro Tips:
- Work quickly: The high heat of the wood-fired oven means the pizza cooks in just a few minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Freshness matters: Use high-quality ingredients like fresh burrata, good prosciutto, and fragrant basil to let the simple flavors shine.
- Balance the burrata: Since burrata is rich and creamy, you don’t want to overdo the tomato sauce. Keep it light to let the flavors complement each other.
This Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza is perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to a gourmet wood-fired meal!
Here’s a delicious and simple recipe for Wood-Fired Lobster Tails using your pizza oven.
The high, intense heat of a wood-fired oven brings out the natural sweetness of lobster, giving it a beautiful smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 lobster tails (around 6-8 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Wood-Fired Oven
- Preheat your wood-fired oven to around 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C). The goal is to have a steady medium-high heat with a nice bed of hot coals. Make sure the flame is not too strong, as you want to roast the lobster tails without burning them.
2. Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the base of the tail. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the meat, keeping it still attached at the base.
- Lift the lobster meat slightly out of the shell and rest it on top, fanning the tail. This helps cook the meat evenly and gives a beautiful presentation.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
4. Baste the Lobster Tails
- Brush the lobster tails generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat the exposed lobster meat thoroughly.
5. Roast in the Pizza Oven
- Place the lobster tails on a cast-iron skillet or grill-safe tray. Transfer the tray into the wood-fired oven. Keep an eye on the lobster as the wood-fired heat will cook them quickly.
- Roast for about 8-10 minutes, basting once halfway through, until the lobster meat is opaque and firm to the touch. The shells should have a nice charred look, while the meat should remain juicy and tender.
6. Finish and Serve
- Remove the lobster tails from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.
Pro Tips:
- Monitor the heat: Pizza ovens can cook at high temperatures quickly, so adjust the placement of the tray or skillet as needed to avoid overcooking.
- Other seasonings: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use a splash of white wine in the butter mixture for extra richness.
Enjoy your wood-fired lobster tails with your favorite side dishes like grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING FEATURED AS CUSTOMER OF THE MONTH - please email Amber@authenticpizzaovens.com
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