Pizza Dough

Ingredients (7)

• warm water120 ml
• active dry yeast2 tsp
• sugar1 tsp
• bread flour680 g
• kosher salt2 tsp
• olive oil1 tbsp
• water300 ml

Method

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast and sugar.

2. 2

   Stir gently and leave for 15–20 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.

4. 4

   Add the olive oil, yeast mixture and the remaining water.

5. 5

   Mix until a rough dough forms.

6. 6

   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface.

7. 7

   Knead for 5–8 minutes until the dough is smooth, soft and elastic.

8. 8

   Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl.

9. 9

   Cover with a damp cloth or cling film and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (approximately 1½–2 hours).

10. 10

    Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions, depending on the size of pizzas required.

11. 11

    Shape each portion into a smooth ball, dust lightly with flour and cover.

12. 12

    Allow the dough to rest for 30–45 minutes until it has increased to about 1½ times its original size.

13. 13

    Roll or stretch the dough into the desired pizza shape.

14. 14

    Add your preferred sauce, toppings and cheese.

15. 15

    Bake in a preheated oven at 240–250°C (or the hottest setting) for 10–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.