2 teaspoons sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
2 cups warm water (about 110° F), plus another 1/4 cup or so
1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or safflower
2 teaspoons salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
5 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
Optional toppings such as chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, za’atar mixed with olive oil (1:1), or sesame seeds