Tom Lehmann: In Lehmann's Terms

How to Achieve the Perfect Dough Mix

To make sure your dough has been properly mixed, use the dough’s appearance as a guide. There are exceptions, though, for emergency dough and frozen dough. Related: Try this recipe for a Crispy Pepperoni and Egg Breakfast Pizza Question: How do I know when my dough has been properly mixed? Answer: The … More

this photo shows eggs being added to pizza dough
Food & Ingredients

Should I Add Eggs to My Pizza Dough?

Eggs can improve browning in your pizza crust, but does the cost outweigh the benefits? Although adding egg whites can yield a crispier crust, simply baking the pizza for a minute or so longer will usually give you the same results. Related: How to achieve the right dough temperature for … More

Dough Information Center

A Newcomer’s Guide to Pizza Dough Equipment

For smaller pizzerias looking to expand or newcomers to the pizza business, consider creating a checklist of the equipment you need and why you need it. Everything starts with choosing the right dough mixer, and several different types are available, depending on your needs. Every farmer needs a tractor. Every … More

Food & Ingredients

Making the Most of Mozzarella

Q: What’s the best way to store mozzarella, and how long will it last before it goes bad? A: Fresh mozzarella comes in a variety of ball- and loaf-shape sizes and is typically packaged in brine, whey or water/liquid packing solution, which helps retain its shape, moisture and soft, creamy, slightly elastic … More

Tom Lehmann: In Lehmann's Terms

Alternatives to the Standard Dough Box

Q: What are some viable alternatives to standard dough boxes? A: Last month, we discussed using dough boxes for storing dough balls. Now let’s explore other options. We’ll start with standard aluminum bakery-sheet pans, which typically measure 18” by 26”. Like dough boxes, they must be used correctly for best … More

Tom Lehmann: In Lehmann's Terms

The Secrets of Instant Dry Yeast

Q: We normally use fresh yeast, but our supplier recently told us that only instant dry yeast will be available. We’ve never used instant dry yeast before. What do we need to know about this type of yeast when formulating dough for our pizza operation? A: Instant dry yeast—or IDY, … More