Turkish Bagel (Simit) Recipe

A classic Turkish bagel topped with sesame seeds, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Simit, often referred to as the Turkish bagel, is a quintessential part of Turkish cuisine and culture. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this sesame-encrusted bread ring is a popular breakfast item and snack throughout Turkey. The scent of freshly baked simit wafts through the streets of Istanbul, tempting passersby with its irresistible aroma. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the nutty flavor of the toasted sesame seeds and the tender, airy crumb of the bread.

Originating from the Ottoman era, simit has been a beloved treat for centuries. Traditionally enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea, it's also commonly served with an array of accompaniments such as cheese, olives, and fresh tomatoes. Whether you’re having a leisurely breakfast or need a quick snack, simit is always a good choice. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own authentic simit at home, filling your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of this Turkish classic.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon (10g) instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water (for dipping)
• 1/2 cup (120g) molasses (preferably grape molasses)
• 2 cups (300g) sesame seeds, lightly toasted

Nutrition

Calories: ~290 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Create a well in the center and gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil while mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands. Continue to mix until a slightly sticky dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a few drops of water.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches (46 cm) long.
6. Shape the Simit: To form the simit, take two dough ropes and twist them together. Then bring the ends together to form a circular ring, pressing the ends to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
7. Dip and Coat: Pour the water and molasses into a shallow bowl and mix well. Place the toasted sesame seeds in another shallow bowl. Dip each dough ring into the molasses mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the sesame seeds, turning to coat generously.
8. Second Rise: Place the coated rings on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each simit. Cover them with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
9. Bake the Simit: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the simit are golden brown and crispy. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove the simit from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, preferably with fresh cheese, olives, and tomatoes, alongside a cup of Turkish tea.

Your homemade simit are now ready to be enjoyed! These golden, sesame-encrusted rings are not only a delight to eat but also a joy to make. The process of baking simit at home allows you to experience a bit of Turkish culture right in your kitchen. Don't be surprised if the irresistible aroma draws everyone into the kitchen, eagerly awaiting their first bite.

To keep your simit fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious they are), you can freeze them for up to a month. Simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Making simit can be a fun group activity. Invite friends or family to join you in shaping and coating the dough. This can turn into a delightful and educational experience, especially if you tell them about the rich history and cultural significance of simit in Turkish cuisine. As with any bread, there are some variations and regional tweaks you can try. For instance, some people like adding a pinch of anise seeds to the dough for a hint of additional flavor. Others might experiment with different types of seeds for topping, such as flaxseeds or poppy seeds.

Remember, the key to perfect simit lies in the balance between the crispy crust and the soft interior. So, pay attention to the rising times and don't rush the baking process. The molasses dip is essential for that authentic taste and color, so try to use grape molasses if you can find it.

Whether you are a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this simit recipe is manageable and rewarding. Enjoy your homemade Turkish bagels, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones—after all, sharing good food is a cherished tradition in Turkish culture!