How do I knead dough by hand?

Continue with the below once you've completed: How do I know when to stop mixing my dough before kneading?

There are many different ways to knead dough, and you will find your preferred method with practice.

Example method 1: Classic Pull and Push

1. Place the dough on a clean and dry work surface.

Pro Tip: Do not sprinkle flour on the surface or dough, as this will be kneaded into the dough and will change the recipe. You can always lightly oil your hands if the dough is sticking to them.

2. Using your fingertips, pull the dough towards you to create a fold. Then use the palms of your hands to push down and away.

3. Give the dough a quarter turn and repeat.

4. After some practice, you will get a feel for this technique and naturally speed up. Perhaps even use one hand to knead while using the other to guide the dough.

5. To ensure you stop kneading at the right time, check out: How do I know when I should stop kneading my dough?

Example Method 2: Slap and Fold - Used for higher hydration recipes

1. Place the dough on a clean work surface.

Pro Tip: Do not sprinkle flour on the surface or dough, as this will be kneaded into the dough and will change the recipe. You can always lightly oil your hands and work surface if the dough is sticky.

2. Using your fingers, pick up the dough in the middle so that both sides fall down and touch. Slap the dough down and away so the touching parts hit the surface first. Repeat to build up the gluten.

3. You can always tidy up the surface and dough with an Ooni Pizza Bench Scraper

4. To ensure you stop kneading at the right time, check out: How do I know when I should stop kneading my dough?