2 tbsp. yellow cornmeal (optional)
2 1/2 c. flour
1 pkg. active dry yeast or quick rise yeast
1 tsp. salt
1 c. very warm water (120-130 degrees)
2 tbsp. solid vegetable shortening

Place a baking sheet on middle rack of oven. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Generously grease two 12 inch round pizza pans. Sprinkle each with cornmeal if desired.

In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup of flour, yeast and salt until well blended. Add very warm water and shortening. Mix by hand until almost smooth. Gradually stir in remaining 1 1/2 cups flour to make a firm dough. Cover; let rest for 15 minutes.

Divide dough in half. With well floured fingers, press half of dough into each pizza pan. Generously prick dough with a fork. Add desired toppings and bake at 400 degrees for approximately 15 minutes. (For an herb pizza crust, add 2 teaspoons dried Italian herb seasoning. Also, stir 1 minced garlic clove in with the warm water.)