Knead a supple dough
Work the dough towards the feel the recipe describes, then give it its specified rest.
What this skill is for
Kneading works a mixed dough into a more cohesive mass. Use this lesson for doughs whose recipes ask for kneading; it is not a rule to knead every pastry or batter.
How to do it
- Mix the measured ingredients as the recipe directs. Bring loose pieces together before starting a regular kneading motion.
- Press the dough forward, fold it back and turn it, keeping the work controlled and comfortable.
- Continue towards the recipe's texture cue, such as a supple dough. Avoid adding flour simply to keep the surface perfectly dry.
- Cover and rest for the period specified by that dough's recipe before shaping or rolling.
Recognize success
- The dough forms a coherent piece and reaches the texture named in the recipe.
- After the prescribed rest, it is workable for the next step rather than a pile of dry fragments.
Common mistakes and what to do
- Adding flour repeatedly can leave a different dough from the measured recipe. Use only the handling flour it calls for.
- Skipping the rest can make rolling more difficult. Return to the recipe's resting step rather than forcing a resistant piece.
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Practice with a real recipe