Homemade pizzas

Step 1

To make the pizza the dough, place 150ml lukewarm water in a bowl. Sprinkle over yeast and sugar, then whisk with a fork. Stand at room temperature for 15 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface. Sift flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt into a bowl.

Step 2

Make a well in the centre, then add yeast mixture and mix with oiled hands until the dough comes together in a ball. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use an electric mixer with a dough hook attachment). Place in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Stand in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 3

On a floured surface, gently roll dough into a 3mm-thick rectangle (you don't want to expel all the air from the dough). Transfer to an oiled baking tray, cover with a tea towel and stand in a warm spot for a further 30 minutes until slightly risen.

Step 4

Spread the tomato sauce over base, leaving a 2cm border. Top with the cheese and your choice of toppings. Bake the pizzas for 8-10 minutes until cooked and golden, then slice and serve with rocket and basil or pesto and watercress.