1. If using active dry yeast, whisk 3 heaped tablespoons of bread flour into a large bowl of lukewarm water.
Once well mixed, add the yeast and whisk again. Leave in a warm place for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is frothy. (For instant dry yeast and fresh yeast, simply add to flour and mix.)
2. If mixing by hand: In a large bowl, add half the remaining flour and the yeast mixture and mix well.
If mixing by hand: In a large bowl, add half the remaining flour and the yeast mixture and mix well. Then add the salt and remaining flour. Dump the mixture onto a lightly-floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. Drizzle the bottom of the bowl with olive oil, place the dough back into the bowl and dash a bit more olive oil on top.
If using a stand mixer: Dump the mixture into the bowl, turn on low and mix for 4 minutes, or until the dough is formed. Drizzle the bottom of a separate bowl with olive oil, place the dough into the bowl and add more olive oil on top.
3. Cover the bowl with a dishcloth and set in the sun or another warm place for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size — whichever comes first.
4. Divide the bulk-proofed dough into five 250-gram or four 330-gram pieces.
Ball up the dough, ensuring the tops of the balls are smooth. Brush each ball with olive oil or warm water, cover with a dishcloth and rest in a warm place for 15 to 20 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Tip: Use your Ooni Pizza Bench Scraper to divide the bulk-proofed dough into balls. Always start with a perfectly rounded ball of dough, which will help keep the shape of the base during the stretching process.
5. While the dough balls are resting, set up your toppings, then fire up your oven and let it preheat for 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches between 450 and 500 °C.
Use an infrared thermometer to quickly and accurately check the temperature of the baking stone.
6. Place the dough ball on a lightly-floured surface, flour your hands and, working from the centre out, use your fingertips to press the dough into a small, flat disc.
Continue pushing the dough outwards while spreading your fingers to enlarge the disc. Pick up the dough and, holding it gently along the edge, “steer” it in a circle, allowing gravity to pull it evenly downwards until it reaches the desired size.
Tip: Read our four top dough-stretching tips.
7. When the dough is fully stretched, lightly flour your pizza peel and lay the dough base on top.
If you see any small holes or tears, gently pinch them back together. Once you’re happy with your base, add your toppings.
8. Once the oven is hot, launch your pizza and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes, turning every 20 seconds to ensure an even bake.
9. Slice, serve and enjoy!.
