World Flavors Cookbook

Simit (Turkish Sesame Bread)

The iconic circular bread of Turkey, crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, and completely covered in toasted sesame seeds.

Cuisine: Turkey

Ingredients

• 500g flour
• 1 tsp yeast, 1 tsp sugar
• 1.5 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup grape molasses (pekmez) mixed with 1/4 cup water
• 2 cups toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Knead dough and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Divide into 12 pieces. Roll into long ropes and twist two together into a circle.
3. Dip each ring into the molasses mixture, then into the sesame seeds.
4. Bake at 220°C for 15-20 minutes until deep golden brown.
5. Serve warm with cheese and olives.