Simit (Turkish Sesame Street Bread Recipe) - Amira's Pantry (2024)

Simit is a popular Turkish street food that is more like sesame bagels. Turkish simit are braided bagels dipped in diluted molasses syrup then sesame seeds. Simit has crunchy exterior and light fluffy interior with a delightful nutty flavor.

Here is a foolproof recipe for Turkish simit with in depth tutorial, check out the Egyptian simit version that is so popular around Easter and spring time.

I've seen those mobile simit carts selling simit quiet often in Turkey when we visited. Turks, more like Egyptians, prefer their simit with savory sides like cheese, olives, cucumber and tomatoes. But they are as good with chocolate spread, butter, jam and honey. Highly appreciated as a snack with a cup of tea.

📝 Ingredients

Note: This is an overview of the ingredients. You'll find the full measurements and instructions in the recipe card (printable) at the bottom of the page.

This simit recipe only uses few ingredients which are very basic for any yeast bread recipe. You also need some molasses and sesame seeds. Molasses can be found right next to corn syrup in the baking aisle or you might find it near maple syrup in breakfast aisle.

🥄 Instructions

Note: This is an overview of the instructions. The detailed instructions are in the recipe card below.

1. In your mixing bowl, add flour, yeast and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add water until a dough forms. Knead Simit dough for 6-8 minutes until you have a smooth elastic dough. Cover and let it rise until double in size, about 1 hour.
3. Take the dough out on a lightly floured surface. Shape into an 8 inch log. Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces about (1inch) strips.
4. Roll two strips into 20-inch (50cm) rope each. Place the two robes side by side and pinch ends.
5. Twist with hands in opposite directions. Make a ring tucking the ends under.
6. Combine molasses, water, flour and whisk until all is dissolved. Dip the dough ring in the molasses mixture.
7. Then dip into the sesame seeds on both sides.
8. Place Simit on a parchment lined baking sheet and let it rise again for 15 minutes. Bake on the medium rack of a 425F preheated oven for 12 minutes.

💡 Expert Tips

• It is recommended to use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook as this bread type needs some work. If you do not have it, no worries it will just take you longer to knead the dough.
• 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.
• Sesame seeds are really what gives these simit a special crunch and nutty flavor so try not to skip them.
• You can use malt syrup instead of molasses if you cannot find it for some reason, although molasses is the traditional way.
• Simit should be baked in a hot oven for a good crust development and nice oven spring.
• 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.

FAQs

• Unleavened bread is easy to make and does not require any special ingredients or equipment. All you need is flour, water, olive oil and salt.
• Lebanese Pita Bread Recipe is a pillowy fluffy bread of the Middle East that store bought cannot even come close to.
• Incredibly delicious and satisfying Sweet Bread Rolls for your morning coffee or afternoon snack. This is a recipe from my grandma's kitchen, no wonder it is a family favorite.

More Turkish Recipes

• Turkish Cofee is a traditional black coffee style that originated in Turkey and spread all over the Middle East. Learn how to make it like a pro and read all about the fun facts and etiquette of drinking Turkish coffee.
• Turkish Lentil Soup also known as "Mercimek Çorbası" is a simple yet so tasty red lentil soup. Do not miss the garnish on top, it is to die for!

If you like this recipe do not forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and attach a photo of your finished dish. It is always a pleasure of mine to see your photos and check your own take of the recipe. Thank you.

First published Sep 4, 2020 . Last updated August 29, 2023 with important tips, clear step by step instructions and readability.

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