Simit (Turkish Bagel)
Turkish Simit is a delightful addition to your breakfast/ lunch table or as a snack with a cup of tea.
Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time30 mins
rising time:1 hr 15 mins
Total Time2 hrs 15 mins
Course: bread, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle East, Turkish
Servings: 4
Calories: 416kcal
- 2 cups (260g) all purpose flour.
- ⅔ cup (150ml) warm water, more or less depending on your flour.
- 1 teaspoon yeast.
- 1 teaspoon salt.
For dipping:
- 2 Tablespoon molasses.
- 4 Tablespoons water.
- 1 Tablespoon flour.
- 100g sesame seeds toasted.
Make the dough:
In your mixing bowl, add flour, yeast and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add water until a dough forms. Knead for 6-8 minutes until you have a smooth elastic dough.
Cover and let it rise until double in size, depends on your kitchen’s temperature normally 1 hour.
Make the dipping mixture:
Shape the simit:
Take the dough out on a lightly floured surface. Shape into an 8 inch log.
Cut the dough into 8 (1inch) strips.
Roll two strips into 20-inch (50cm) rope each.
Place the two robes side by side and pinch ends then twist with hands in opposite directions.
Make a ring tucking the ends under.
Dip the dough ring in the molasses mixture then into the sesame seeds on both sides.
Place simit on a parchment lined baking sheet and let it rise again for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile preheat your oven to 425F.
Bake on the medium rack for 12 minutes or until baked and browned nicely on top.
Note1: It is wasier to use a stand mixer as this bread needs some work. If you do not have it, no worries it will just take you longer to knead the dough.
Note2: You can make simit ahead and keep the dough tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use take it out, let it come to room temperature and rise appropriately.
Note3: Sesame seeds are really what gives these simit a special crunch and nutty flavor so try not to skip them.
Note4: You can use malt syrup instead of molasses if you cannot find it for some reason, although molasses is the traditional way.
Note5: Simit should be baked in a hot oven for a good crust development and nice oven spring.
Note6: Simit loaves are best consumed the day they are made. To freeze, place them in a freezer bags for up to 3 weeks.Previously frozen simit loaves are best if toasted before serving.
Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.
Calories: 416kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 593mg | Potassium: 359mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 8g | Calcium: 274mg | Iron: 7mg