Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- 300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the coating:
- 1/2 cup grape molasses (or substitute with date molasses or honey mixed with a little water)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
1. Prepare the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape the Simit:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long rope, about 50 cm (20 inches) long.
- Fold the rope in half, twist the two halves together, and then join the ends to form a ring.
3. Coat the Simit:
- In a shallow bowl, mix the molasses with water.
- Place the toasted sesame seeds on a plate.
- Dip each dough ring into the molasses mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the sesame seeds.
4. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the coated Simit on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving
Enjoy your freshly baked Simit with cheese, olives, tomatoes, and a cup of Turkish tea for an authentic experience.
Afiyet olsun! (Enjoy your meal!)