Crossword Genius

Required to be worked like dough, we’re told (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

needed

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'required' is the definition.
(I know that required can be written as needed)

'be worked like dough we're told' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'be' could be 'need' (needing is a kind of being) and 'need' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ed' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for needed that I've seen before include "Missing" , "Essential; called for" , "'Lacked, required (6)'" , "Required; sounds like worked (dough)" , "'Wanted, required (6)'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app