Turkish Simit
Enjoy traditional Turkish Simit, a delicious sesame-coated bread ring with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, chewy center. Made with simple ingredients and grape molasses, this flavorful Turkish bread is perfect for breakfast or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
For The Dough
- 4 cups 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups 360 ml warm water
- 2¼ tsp 7 g active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Sesame Coating
- ½ cup grape molasses pekmez
- ½ cup water
- 2 cups sesame seeds
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if the dough is too sticky, but avoid adding too much.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and leave it in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Sesame Seeds: Spread the sesame seeds on a large plate or shallow tray. For a deeper nutty flavor, toast them lightly in a dry skillet first and let them cool.
- Prepare the Molasses Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the grape molasses and water until well combined.
- Divide the Dough: Gently deflate the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape the Rings: Roll each piece into a long rope about 50–60 cm long. Fold the rope in half, twist the two strands together, then join the ends to form a ring. Pinch the ends firmly to seal.
- Coat the Simit: Dip each ring into the molasses mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then coat it thoroughly with sesame seeds on both sides.
- Arrange on Baking Trays: Place the coated rings on baking trays lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one. Let them rest for 15–20 minutes while the oven heats.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Bake the Simit: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rings are deep golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the simit from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy Turkish Simit warm or at room temperature, traditionally alongside Turkish tea, cheese, olives, or fresh tomatoes.
- Tip: Grape molasses gives simit its traditional color and distinctive flavor. If it is unavailable, a mixture of date molasses and water can be used, although the taste will be slightly different.