Sicilian Pizza Crust

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water , 95 to 110 degrees F/35 to 43 degrees C
• 1 package active dry yeast , .25 ounce
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine warm water and yeast in a small bowl; stir until yeast is dissolved. Let stand until yeast forms a creamy foam, about 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Pour yeast mixture into a large bowl; add shortening, salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Stir in flour by hand until dough comes together.

3. 3

   Turn dough out on a floured work surface and knead until smooth, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a large greased bowl. Cover with a moist towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

4. 4

   Punch dough down gently. Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes for air to release. Roll into a ball; spread and stretch over the bottom of a pizza pan. Let rise for 15 minutes before topping and baking.