Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Combine Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead the Dough: Mix everything together until a dough forms. Then, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air bubbles.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into portions depending on your recipe needs. You can shape it into a pizza crust, breadsticks, or any other desired shape.
- Second Rise (Optional): If your recipe calls for it, let the shaped dough rise for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to the required temperature according to your recipe. Bake the dough according to your specific recipe instructions until golden brown and cooked through.
- Enjoy: Once baked, let the dough cool slightly before enjoying with your favorite toppings or accompaniments.
This versatile dough can be used for various recipes, from pizza bases to breadsticks, and even savory or sweet pastries. Experiment with different toppings and fillings to customize your creations!