Simit

Simit is a popular Turkish street food and breakfast staple that is loved for its chewy texture, sesame seed coating, and delightful flavor. Resembling a circular-shaped bread with a hole in the center, simit is often referred to as a Turkish bagel or sesame bread. It is typically enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea or served alongside a variety of spreads and cheeses. Here’s a recipe for making traditional simit at home:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water
• 1/2 cup (75g) sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses or grape molasses (optional, for dipping)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2. Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into small pieces, each weighing approximately 2 ounces (60g).
7. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 14-16 inches (35-40cm) in length.
8. Take each dough rope and form a circle, overlapping the ends by about 1 inch (2.5cm). Pinch the ends together to seal.
9. Dip each simit into a bowl of water, then immediately roll it in sesame seeds, ensuring the seeds stick to the surface of the dough. Gently press the sesame seeds into the dough to ensure they adhere well.
10. Place the sesame-coated simit onto the prepared baking sheet and repeat the process with the remaining dough.
11. Bake the simit in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
12. Remove the simit from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
13. Optional: If desired, mix the molasses with a little water to thin it out. Dip each simit into the molasses mixture, coating it lightly. This step adds a touch of sweetness and helps the sesame seeds adhere better.
14. Serve the freshly baked simit warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own, with a spread of butter or cream cheese, or alongside a cup of Turkish tea.