Flipping pizza dough is also called "tossing" and refers to the way a pizza maker throws the dough into the air to shape it before it is topped and goes into the oven. Pizza tossing has evolved into somewhat of a sport, with competitions and demonstrations around the United States. Using the proper technique to flip pizza dough helps ensure an even crust with no holes or tears that will accept your toppings and bake well in the oven.
Step 1
Remove any jewelry such as rings, bracelets or watches before you begin.
Step 2
Dust your pizza dough with flour, then place it on a floured surface and press it down with your fingers to spread it out. Roll it out with a rolling pin until it's approximately 10 inches in diameter.
Step 3
Pick up the dough and position your dominant hand under the dough with the palm facing up. Hold your other hand under the dough in a fist with your palm down.
Step 4
Rotate the dough so your dominant hand moves over toward your other side. If you're right-handed, your right hand rotates around to your left side.
Step 5
Rotate the dough quickly back toward your dominant side and raise your hands up at the same time, throwing the dough into the air. The dough should spin like a disc as it sails in the air.
Step 6
Catch the dough with both hands in a fist, with palms facing down. Flip your dominant hand back over so the palm is up and repeat. Stop when the dough is 12 to 14 inches in diameter, or whatever size you want your pizza to be.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your fingers together on your dominant hand when it is in a palms-up position. Space your hands farther apart as the dough gets bigger so it doesn't flop over or tear, champion tosser Tony Gemignani recommends.
Things You'll Need
- Pizza dough
- Flour
Member Comments