Traditional Turkish Simit Recipe - Istanbul's Famous Sesame Bread Ring
Traditional Turkish simit, Istanbul's beloved sesame-crusted bread rings. Learn the authentic molasses-dipping technique for perfect golden crust.
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Recipe Details
Ingredients
Shopping List
- 500 g Bread flourHigh-gluten flour essential
- 300 ml Warm water110°F/43°C
- 7 g Active dry yeast1 packet
- 20 g SugarFor yeast activation
- 12 g SaltFine sea salt
- 40 ml Olive oilExtra virgin preferred
- 60 ml MolassesEssential for authentic flavor
- 500 ml Warm water for molassesFor dipping solution
- 200 g Sesame seedsWhite sesame seeds
- 1 pieces Egg yolkFor golden color
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand 8-10 minutes until very foamy. Active yeast is crucial for proper texture and rise.
Step 2
In large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until rough dough forms.
Step 3
Knead dough on floured surface for 12-15 minutes until very smooth and elastic. Simit requires well-developed gluten for proper texture.
Step 4
Place in oiled bowl, cover, and rise 1.5-2 hours until doubled. First rise develops flavor and creates light texture.
Step 5
Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Cover and rest 20 minutes to relax gluten for easier shaping.
Step 6
Roll each portion into 20-inch rope, keeping thickness uniform. Form into rings by overlapping ends by 2 inches and pinching to seal securely.
Step 7
Place shaped simit on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover and rise 45 minutes until puffy but not doubled.
Step 8
Prepare molasses solution by mixing molasses with warm water until completely dissolved. This creates the authentic flavor and helps sesame seeds adhere.
Step 9
Dip each risen simit briefly in molasses water, allowing excess to drip off. Immediately roll in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure adherence.
Step 10
Return coated simit to baking sheets. Brush lightly with beaten egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water for golden color.
Step 11
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake 15-18 minutes until deep golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 12
Cool on wire racks. Simit are best eaten fresh but maintain quality for 2-3 days stored in paper bags.
Congratulations!
You've successfully prepared an authentic Turkish dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
About This Recipe
Traditional Turkish Simit Recipe - Istanbul's Famous Sesame Bread Ring
Simit has been Istanbul's beloved street food for over 500 years. Ottoman records show simit vendors in the 1500s, making it one of the world's oldest continuous street foods. Today, simit represents Istanbul's cultural identity and is eaten by millions daily. The circular shape symbolizes the cycle of life and community connection in Turkish culture.
Recipe Tips
- Don't skip the molasses dip - it's what makes simit authentic and delicious
- Press sesame seeds firmly so they don't fall off during baking
- Simit rings should be uniform in thickness for even cooking
- Serve warm with Turkish tea, cheese, and tomatoes for traditional experience
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