-
1
Using your hands, combine flour, shortening and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and set aside.
-
2
In a small bowl, mix sugar and 1/2 cup warm water.
-
3
When completely dissolved, add yeast and allow to foam up.
-
4
Add wet mixture into the well of dry ingredients.
-
5
Using hands, slowly bring flour mixture into the center, combining and kneading.
-
6
Gradually add 2 cups of lukewarm water as you continue to knead. If dough sticks to your hands, add more flour a little at a time. If it feels hard and resistant, add a little water. When this forms a ball, coat with a thin film of olive oil.
-
7
Cover loosely with a towel and let dough rise in a warm place 2 hours.
-
8
When risen, with dough still in the bowl, punch it in the center.
-
9
Separate into halves, and place each half oil side down on two pizza pans or cookie sheets.
-
10
Spread and stretch dough from the center out, being sure to leave a lip around the edge.
-
11
Cover loosely with a towel and allow to rise another hour.
-
12
When you're ready to cook, preheat oven to 400 degrees.
-
13
Spread a thin layer of one can crushed tomatoes over the dough.
-
14
Add salt, pepper, oregano and basil to taste.
-
15
Leave as is, or sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over tomatoes.
-
16
Bake 15 minutes, then check using a spatula to raise pizza and peek underneath.
-
17
Bake further until the crust is crispy and golden brown.
