Description
Turkish Simit Bread is a delightful, sesame-crusted treat with a slightly sweet flavor from molasses. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these bagel-like breads have a crunchy exterior and a soft interior, making them an irresistible addition to any meal. Enjoy them with cheese, olives, or your favorite spread!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup cold water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the well you created in the flour. Add the vegetable oil to the mixture.
- Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it back to a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-14 inches long, and form it into a circle, pinching the ends to seal.
- Place the shaped Simit on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a kitchen towel. Let them rest for about 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the molasses with the cold water until well combined.
- Spread sesame seeds in another shallow dish.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Once the Simit have rested, dip each piece into the molasses mixture, then roll in sesame seeds.
- Place the coated Simit back on the baking sheet and repeat for all pieces.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.
- Let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top of the Simit before baking.
- Enjoy your homemade Turkish Simit with cheese, olives, or your favorite spread!
- Prep Time: 90 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes