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Turkish Simit (Sesame-Crusted Bread Rings)

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Crispy on the outside and soft inside, Turkish Simit is a sesame-crusted bread ring that’s a popular street food and breakfast staple, often enjoyed with tea, cheese, or olives.

Ingredients

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  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp instant dry yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 359 ml warm water (approx. 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 tbsp flour (for coating)
  • 1/2 cup molasses (grape or pomegranate)
  • 300g sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet until golden and fragrant, then set aside.
  6. Divide risen dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into an 18-inch rope, twist two ropes together, and form into a ring. Pinch ends to seal.
  7. In a shallow bowl, mix molasses, 1 tbsp flour, and about 1/4 cup water to make a dipping glaze.
  8. Dip each ring into the molasses mixture, then coat thoroughly with toasted sesame seeds.
  9. Place rings on a parchment-lined baking tray and let rest for 20 minutes.
  10. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  11. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until deep golden brown and crisp.
  12. Serve warm or at room temperature with tea, cheese, olives, or jam.

Notes

  • Ensure sesame seeds are well-toasted for optimal flavor and aroma.
  • Molasses glaze helps achieve the iconic color and texture of traditional simit.
  • Use grape molasses for a more authentic Turkish taste.
  • Simit can be frozen after baking and reheated in the oven before serving.

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