Authentic Turkish Simit Recipe: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons of instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 and 1/2 cups of warm water
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup of molasses
  • 1/2 cup of warm water
  • 2 cups of sesame seeds

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
  2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form.
  3. Add the vegetable oil to the dough and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. When the dough has risen, divide it into 16 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
  6. Twist two ropes together to form a circle, pinching the ends together to seal. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces of dough.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. In a shallow dish, mix together the molasses and warm water.
  9. Place the sesame seeds in another shallow dish.
  10. Dip each circle of dough into the molasses mixture, making sure it is completely coated, then dip it into the sesame seeds, again ensuring it is fully coated.
  11. Place the coated circles of dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
  12. Allow the simit to cool slightly on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
  • Adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a spiced flavor.
  • Replacing the sesame seeds with poppy seeds or a mixture of different seeds for a varied texture.
  • Incorporating some grated cheese, such as feta or cheddar, into the dough for a savory twist.
  • Adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the molasses mixture for a touch of sweetness.
  • Including some finely chopped herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to the dough for an aromatic taste.
  • Making a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
  • Adding some finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for a Mediterranean flavor.
  • Creating a vegan option by replacing the honey in the molasses mixture with a plant-based sweetener like agave nectar or maple syrup.
  • Experimenting with different fillings, such as Nutella, cream cheese, or jam, to make filled simit.

Recipe overview

This delicious and authentic Simit recipe will transport your tastebuds to the streets of Turkey. Simit is a traditional Turkish bread widely enjoyed in Turkey and beyond. It is often likened to a bagel, but it has distinct features that make it stand out, including its twisted ring shape and the generous coating of sesame seeds. In this recipe, we'll walk you through the process of making your own Simit at home. It involves making a simple dough, letting it rise, and then shaping it into the iconic circular form. The dough rings are then dipped in a molasses mixture and coated in sesame seeds before baking until golden. The result is a chewy, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible bread that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture of the simit slightly.
  2. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dry ingredients.
  3. Can I substitute honey for molasses? Yes, you can substitute honey for molasses if you prefer. The flavor of the simit will be slightly different, but still delicious.
  4. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After kneading the dough, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
  5. How should I store the leftover simit? Store the leftover simit in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Simit, affectionately known as the Turkish bagel, has a storied past that speaks volumes about the rich culinary heritage of Turkey. This circular sesame-encrusted bread is as old as the city of Istanbul itself. The Ottoman sultans, having a taste for luxurious banquets, are said to have been particularly fond of simit, and its popularity only grew over time. Today, simit is not just a beloved breakfast staple, but it's also an integral part of the Turkish lifestyle. The simit sellers carrying large trays on their heads, calling out to potential customers, are as iconic in the bustling streets of Istanbul as the city's historic monuments. The beautiful thing about simit is its simplicity that brings people together, regardless of their status or wealth. It's not just a food item, but a symbol of the Turkish way of life and a testament to their enduring traditions.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.