Knead: A technique used to mix and work a dough in order to form it into
a cohesive, pliable mass. During kneading, the network of gluten strands
stretches and expands, thereby enabling a dough to hold in the gas bubbles
formed by a leavener (which allows it to rise). Kneading is accomplished either
manually or by machine — usually a large mixer equipped with a dough
hook (some machines have two dough hooks) or a food processor with a
plastic blade. By hand, kneading is done with a pressing-folding-turning action
performed by pressing down into the dough with the heels of both hands,
then pushing away from the body. The dough is folded in half and given
a quarter turn, and the process is repeated. Depending on the dough, the
manual kneading time can range anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes (or more).
Well-kneaded dough is smooth and elastic.