Mixing the dough

Activity

Ingredients:

2 cups plain flour
1 cup salt
1 cup water.

Utensils:

Small straight edged knife
Rolling pin
Toothpicks
Garlic press
Tin foil
Small paint brush
water

Occasionally you will see recipes for dough suggesting the addition of a tablespoon of cooking oil. I have found no difference in the quality of the dough, but you can decide for yourself if you wish. Also I have seen recipes using wallpaper paste. I am not very keen on this as most of these pastes have a fungicide in them and I would prefer not to put in the way of children.

Method

Mix together the flour, salt and water. Be careful with the water, you may not need the full cup. Add most of the water at first. You can add the rest if you need it. It is easier to add more water if the mix is dry, than flour if the mix is too wet.

Once you have gathered the flour, salt and water to make the dough, turn out onto the work surface and knead well. It will take at least 10 minutes kneading to achieve the correct consistency. You are aiming to have a smooth finish. The dough will be slightly warm to the touch and have a putty like consistency.
If you have a heavy duty mixer you can use this to start the dough, but it is always best to finish by hand.

For a good finished product the dough must be well kneaded.

When you are happy with the dough, wrap in a plastic bag or cling wrap and allow to rest at room temperature for about 20minutes.

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