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5 from 1 vote

Turkish Simit Recipe tutorial - Bagel Bread Style

Turkish Simit bread is a beloved circular bread with a crispy exterior, a soft and chewy interior, generously coated with sesame seeds, making it a delightful and satisfying treat for breakfast or any time of the day.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Turkish
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Proofing Time 1 hour
Servings 6 bread
Calories 477kcal
Author Sushma Iyer

Ingredients

For Bread Dough

  • 288 gms (1 cup + 3 tbsp) Lukewarm Water
  • 4 gms (1 tsp) Instant Yeast
  • 15 gms (1 tbsp) Sugar
  • 480 gms (4 cups) Bread Flour
  • 1 tsp Salt

Molasses Water Mixture

  • 1/4 cup Molasses
  • 2 tbsp Water
  • 142 gms (1 cup) Sesame Seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
  • Add flour and salt, and mix with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a clean work surface until soft and pliable. This would take around 6 to 8 mins.

Step 2 - First Proofing

  • Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 30 minutes.

Step 3 - Shaping

  • Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
  • Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a long rope, about 10 inches in length making sure to keep the ends slightly thicker than the centre.
  • Twist two ropes together in opposite directions, forming a circular shape.
  • Seal the ends of the dough to maintain the circular shape.

Step 4 - Second Proofing

  • Transfer the shaped dough rings to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan. Place 3 to 4 circular rings depending upon the size of the baking tray.
  • Allow the dough to undergo a second proofing for 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 5 - Molasses Water Mixture

  • Combine molasses and water in a small bowl with a wide mouth to create a syrup-like mixture.
  • Roast sesame seeds until golden brown for enhanced flavor if you are using unroasted sesame seeds.

Step 6 - Coat with Sesame Seeds

  • After second proofing, gently stretch the dough rings and widen the center hole.
  • Dip the dough rings in the molasses mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
  • Roll the coated dough in the toasted sesame seeds.

Step 7 - Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F).
  • Place the coated dough rings on a baking sheet, leaving enough space between them.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crusty.

Video

Notes

Creating the perfect Simit requires a few insider tips and tricks. Here are some suggestions to ensure your Simit turns out absolutely delicious:
  1. Use High-Quality Flour: Only use bread flour for this recipe. All-Purpose Flour won't work. This means you have to use flour with a good amount of protein in it. The quality of the flour plays a significant role in the texture and taste of the Simit. 
  2. Activating the Yeast: If you are using any other variety of yeast other than Instant Yeast say example you are using active dry yeast. In that case, make sure to activate the yeast mixture first and then proceed with the recipe. 
  3. Proper Kneading: Take your time when kneading the dough. Knead it for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten and gives the Simit its characteristic chewiness.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and lightness in the final product.
  5. Shaping the Dough: While working with two ropes at any given point in time, make sure to cover the remaining dough balls with a clean tea towel to avoid them from drying out. 
  6. Generously coat with Sesame Seeds: When coating the Simit with sesame seeds, make sure to be generous. The sesame seeds not only add flavor but also contribute to the signature appearance of the bread.
  7. Baking Temperature and Time: Preheat your oven to 230°C and bake the Simit until they turn golden brown. The baking time may vary, so keep a close eye on them to avoid over or under-baking. The baked Simits will be darker in shade due to the molasses used so don't get scared thinking they are burnt.

Nutrition

Calories: 477kcal | Carbohydrates: 77g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 400mg | Potassium: 402mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 4IU | Vitamin C: 0.002mg | Calcium: 274mg | Iron: 5mg
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