Dough — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

The best dough, whether for bread, pizza, or pastries, should be elastic and smooth, easy to stretch without tearing. Press the dough gently; it should spring back slightly, indicating good fermentation.

Reject dough that is overly sticky or stiff, as these textures can make it difficult to work with and could result in a heavy, dense baked product. Well-prepared dough should be pliable and have a neutral, slightly yeasty scent.

Dough should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from rising too much. Keep it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Properly stored, dough can last up to three days.

Leaving dough uncovered can cause it to dry out and form a crust. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain its elasticity and freshness.

Dough can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Properly wrap the dough to prevent freezer burn.

Leftover dough can be used in a variety of creative and delicious ways. In the kitchen, dough can be repurposed into different baked goods, such as turning leftover bread or pizza dough into breadsticks, rolls, or even pretzels. Dough can also be shaped into cinnamon rolls or flatbreads, providing a versatile base for both sweet and savory toppings.

Beyond baking, dough can be used for fun and educational activities, especially with children. Homemade play dough can be made by mixing leftover dough with food coloring and additional flour to create a pliable, non-toxic clay for kids to play with. Dough can also be used in craft projects to create ornaments, beads, or sculptures that harden when baked or air-dried. Additionally, dough can be used as a natural cleaning tool; for example, it can help remove dust from hard-to-reach places like the cracks in keyboards or between tiles when pressed into the area and lifted away.