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1. Place yeast in a large bowl and add heated water. Let stand for 6-8 minutes to allow yeast to activate.
2. Thoroughly stir in salt, sugar and oil.
3. Gradually stir in 2 cups of flour with a wooden spoon until mixture is smooth. Add remaining flour slowly until dough is slightly sticky. Do not add too much flour as this will result in a tough dough.
4. Lightly cover a smooth working surface with flour. Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until texture is smooth to the touch and slightly silky.
5. Shape dough into a ball, lightly cover with olive oil and place into a bowl. Cover with a light towel and allow dough to rise for about an hour in a warm area.
6. Punch down the risen dough until it is approximately half the original size. Let dough rest again for about five minutes as this will make it easier to stretch out and shape.
7. Transfer dough to a lightly floured working surface for stretching and shaping with hands or a rolling pin. Work out dough evenly into desired shape. Fold dough in half and transfer to baking sheet. Unfold and spread evenly onto baking surface, slightly crimping the edges with fingers. Add toppings and bake.
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