First Proving or Rising

When the dough has been fully kneaded it is ready for the first proving or rising. Place 1 tsp sunflower or vegetable oil in the bottom of a bowl large enough to hold the dough when it has doubled in size. I prefer not to use a huge bowl as it can be difficult to judge when the dough has risen sufficiently.

Gather the dough together into a ball and place it in the bowl, turning it to coat the dough fully in the oil. Doing this means that it won’t stick to the dish towel or cling film (plastic wrap) that is used to cover it.