Turkish Simit

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 45

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 1 5

Servings:

Calories: 689kcal

Cost: $6

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Course: Bread

Cuisine: Turkish

Keyword: Sesame bread, Simit, Street food, Turkish bread, Turkish Simit

Ingredients

For the Dough:

500 g flour high-protein flour recommended for better texture and flavor
2 teaspoons dry instant yeast instant yeast for quicker rise
1 teaspoon salt to balance flavor
300 ml water lukewarm lukewarm water helps activate the yeast

For the Coating:

½ cup molasses grape or date molasses for authenticity
¼ cup water to thin the molasses
1 tablespoon flour helps thicken the coating mixture
300 g sesame seeds toasted for the best flavor and crunch

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water, mixing with your hands. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth, non-sticky, and elastic.
Cover the dough and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the molasses, water, and flour. Set this mixture aside.
Toast the sesame seeds in a non-stick pan by stirring them occasionally until they turn light brown and release a nutty aroma.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape the dough into a log and cut it into 6 equal pieces. Cut each piece into two, resulting in 12 pieces total. Shape each piece into a rope, 20 inches (50 cm) long. Twist two ropes together to form a braid and pinch the ends together to create a ring. Repeat for all dough balls.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Dip each dough ring into the molasses mixture, then coat it with sesame seeds. Arrange the coated rings on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

Simit is perfect with tea or yogurt. For a richer flavor, make sure to use high-protein flour (13g protein or higher). Toast the sesame seeds for extra crunch, and consider spraying water in the oven to create a crunchy crust!

Nutrition