Homemade Pizza Dough
4 cups (500 grams) flour
2 teaspoons (8 grams) salt
1 teaspoon (5 grams) sugar
1 package (7 grams) active dry yeast
1 cup (250 ml) warm water
2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
In a large bowl mix together flour, salt, sugar and yeast. In a liquid measuring cup measure out the warm water then add the olive oil. Pour the liquid over the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together. Dump all the clumps and bits on to your counter top and knead the dough until it comes together and a smooth ball forms.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl (how about the one you used for mixing – less dishes!), turn to coat and cover with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise for an hour or two or until it doubles in size. When it is ready or you can’t wait any longer, place the dough on your lightly floured countertop (it is still messy, right?) and gently punch out the air from the dough. Shape the dough into a ball and let rest for about 20 minutes under the plastic wrap. Oh look! This is the perfect time to get ready for the pizza party you are about to have!
Heat the oven to 500 or as high as it will go. Find your rolling pin (if you are without pin – an unopened wine bottle works spectacularly well in this situation) and get a baking sheet out. Prepare your toppings.
Sprinkle the pan with cornmeal, roll out your dough, and add your toppings. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is lightly brown and the cheese is bubbling with delicious-ness.
