What are the main components of dough?

The main components of dough are flour and a liquid, which typically includes water. Flour serves as the primary structure and backbone of the dough, providing the necessary protein and carbohydrates. The liquid, on the other hand, is essential for hydrating the flour and activating gluten formation, which gives the dough its elasticity and strength. This combination allows the dough to develop the right texture, enabling it to rise and maintain its shape during baking.

While other ingredients such as sugar and yeast may play significant roles in specific types of dough—like in sweet doughs or yeasted breads—they are not universally necessary for all types of dough. For instance, certain doughs, such as pasta dough, primarily rely on flour and water without the need for sugar or yeast. Therefore, the broadest and most fundamental answer focuses on flour and a liquid as the essential components for creating a dough.