First, activate the yeast.
Warm a large glass or ceramic bowl by running it under hot water for a minute.
Add the optional soy milk, olive oil, sugar, and warm water to the bowl and stir.
Sprinkle the yeast over the top.
Let the yeast bloom.
Place the bowl in a sink filled with about an inch of warm water (around 100°F / 38°C).
Let it sit for 10 minutes, or until the yeast mixture is foamy and has expanded.
Form the dough. Slowly stir 1 cup / 250 mL of the flour into the yeast mixture until it has a porridge-like consistency.
Stir in the salt. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a shaggy ball of dough forms.
Knead the dough.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise.
Form the dough into a ball. Lightly oil the bottom of your bowl and the surface of the dough ball. Return the dough to the bowl and cover it with a clean cloth.
Place the bowl back in the sink of fresh warm water and let it rise for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Your dough is now ready! Proceed with your favorite pizza recipe.
Adding a small amount of plant-based milk and sugar isn't just for flavor; it provides food for the yeast, resulting in a faster, more vigorous rise.
When kneading, use as little extra flour as possible.
Adding too much flour can result in a tough, dry crust.
