Recipe of Simit
The simit is a popular Turkish appetizer, also known as the "Turkish bagel" or "Turkish donut". It is a ring of bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, covered with a generous layer of sesame seeds. Its origins date back to the Ottoman Empire, and today it is a symbol of street food in Turkey, where it is enjoyed at any time, especially with tea.
This appetizer is ideal for those looking for a savory and slightly sweet bite, perfect to accompany hot or cold beverages. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and get a fresh and aromatic result. The dough, made with flour, yeast, and a touch of molasses, is shaped into rings that are dipped in a molasses-water mixture before being coated with sesame, giving them their characteristic golden color and deep flavor.
Variants and uses
- In Turkey, simit is traditionally consumed at breakfast or as a street snack.
- There are versions with cheese, olives, or even chocolate, but the classic one is with sesame.
- It can be served alone, with jam, fresh cheese, or as a base for small sandwiches.
This easy recipe will allow you to make 8 units, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home.
Prep
90 min
Servings
8
Ingredients
Directions
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1
In a bowl, combine warm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
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3
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
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4
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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5
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 20 inches in length.
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6
Form the ropes into circles, pinching the ends to seal.
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7
In a shallow bowl, combine sesame seeds and molasses. In another bowl, mix 1/4 cup of water with molasses.
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8
Dip each simit first into the molasses-water mixture, then into the sesame seeds, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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9
Place the sesame-coated simits on the prepared baking sheet.
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10
Brush the tops of the simits with beaten egg.
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11
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown.
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12
Serve your homemade simits fresh and enjoy their delicious taste and crunchy texture, perfect with tea or as a snack.