Name: Turkish Simit (Sesame Bread Rings) Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 1 h 59 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 tbsp sugar; 2 tsp instant yeast; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 1/2 cup warm water (plus 1-2 tbsp more if needed); 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup grape molasses; 1/4 cup water; 2 cups toasted sesame seeds

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Introduction

Turkish Simit are crispy, sesame-coated bread rings that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. These golden, chewy treats have a slightly sweet crust thanks to a grape molasses dip, making them a flavorful and delightful choice for any time of day.

A tall stack of eight twisted oval bread rings covered with golden-brown toasted sesame seeds sits on a white plate, lined with a beige knitted cloth that drapes over the edges. The bread rings have a golden crust with a soft, light beige texture showing between the twists. One bread ring is leaning against the stack on the right side, and the scene is set against a white marbled surface and a white tiled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp kosher salt
1 1/2 cups warm water (plus 1-2 tbsp more if needed)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup grape molasses
1/4 cup water
2 cups toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: In the bowl of a stand mixer, sift the flour then add the sugar, yeast, and salt. Make a small well in the center and add the warm water and vegetable oil.
Step 2: Mix using a dough hook until the dough comes together. Add a tablespoon of water if the dough is too dry or a tablespoon of flour if too wet.
Step 3: Knead the dough with the dough hook for about 8 minutes until it’s no longer sticky and cleans the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Cover the dough with a linen towel and let it rise for 1 hour, until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Place the toasted sesame seeds in a large shallow dish. Whisk together the grape molasses and 1/4 cup water, then set both aside.
Step 6: After rising, punch down the dough and divide into 16 pieces. Roll out 2 pieces into 20-inch tubes by stretching and pressing the dough evenly.
Step 7: Lay the tubes parallel, pinch one end together, twist the tubes in opposite directions to create a spiral, then pinch the ends together to form a ring. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pieces.
Step 8: Dip each ring in the molasses mixture, turning to coat, then roll in sesame seeds to cover thoroughly. Place back on the baking sheet.
Step 9: Cover loosely with a linen towel and allow to rise for 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 10: Bake the rings for 14 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use warm water for proofing to help activate the yeast properly.
If grape molasses is unavailable, pomegranate molasses or a mild honey can be used as a substitute.
For extra crunch, lightly toast the sesame seeds before using.
Try adding nigella seeds along with sesame seeds for an additional layer of flavor.

Storage

Store Simit in an airtight container or sealed bag once cooled completely. They keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain crispiness before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up image of two woman's hands breaking apart a golden brown sesame-covered bagel, showing the soft, fluffy white inside with a slightly chewy texture. Below the hands, there is a stack of more sesame bagels resting on a white marbled surface. The bagels have a thick, crunchy crust with sesame seeds spread evenly over their top and sides. The background is softly blurred, featuring neutral tones that keep the focus on the bagels and the action of the hands. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Simit without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It may take a bit more time and effort to achieve a smooth, elastic dough.

What is grape molasses and where can I find it?

Grape molasses is a thick, sweet syrup made from concentrated grape juice, commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking. It’s available in specialty stores or online. If not available, pomegranate molasses is a good alternative.