INGREDIENTS

250 g/8 oz unbleached strong plain flour
1 teaspoon fast-action dried yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
125-150 ml/4 fl oz-1/4 pint warm water

Basic Pizza Dough

Sift the flour, yeast and salt into a bowl. Make a well in the centre and add the oil. Gradually pour in the water, stir vigorously, drawing in the

flour a little at a time, to form a soft dough. Knead for at least 10 minutes until the dough feels silky smooth and springy.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning once so the surface is coated. Cover the bowl with a cloth and leave to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

When the dough has risen sufficiently, knock it back and turn it out on to a floured surface. Knead again for 2-3 minutes.