CLASSIC PIZZA DOUGH

Classic, works well for thin and crispy, or thick and crusty!

You will need:

Flour

Yeast

Salt

Sugar

Olive oil

Warm water

This is a classic pizza dough recipe, versatile enough to use for any type of pizza. I have also made this with whole wheat flour, and a combination of both. The texture changes slightly as the whole wheat flour increases.

I settled for a half and half version using wholewheat and all purpose flour.

There are plenty of types of yeast available. I use dry instant yeast, which simply has to be mixed with the dry flour mixture. Its best to check on the packet you use, for the quantity of yeast required, and best method of using it.

Once the dough is mixed, slathering it with oil and keeping it covered in a glass utensil will allow it to rise without drying up. Allow for 1-4 hours to rise. This dough can be stored in the fridge or even frozen, but we have never had enough left over!

So, give it a try - it is well worth it!

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Recipe:

Ingredients:

500g all purpose flour ( can substitute half with whole wheat flour if desired)

Yeast (as per instructions)

1 1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 tsp fine sugar

5 tbsp olive oil

1 cup warm water

3-4 tbsp olive oil extra for resting dough and preparing baking tray

Extra flour to dust and roll

Method:

Mix dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl ( I use instant yeast that can be mixed with the flour, and simply mixing with warm water will activate the yeast. Please follow the instructions on the box to get the best results)

Add 1/2 the water, and mix well.

Add oil and rest of the water alternately, incorporating all the flour into a sticky dough.

In another clean bowl, add 1 tbsp oil and spread thoroughly. Place the ball of sticky dough in the bowl, and slather with some oil and roll the dough to ensure the entire surface is covered with oil. Cover the glass bowl and let the dough rest for at least 2 hours. Try and keep it in a warm place if possible.

When ready to roll the bread, poke holes in the dough to release the air.

Knead the dough with flour, portion it into 2 or 3 parts and keep aside.

To roll, dust with flour and roll out using a pin. For more texture, roll by hand.

Prepare the baking tray with oil and dust with flour before laying the pizza dough and toppings.

This recipe makes 2 medium pizza bases and takes around 30-45 mins in a pre-heated oven