Simit – Authentic Turkish Sesame Bread Rings

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Simit – Authentic Turkish Sesame Bread Rings

Simit is one of Turkey’s most iconic street foods—beautiful golden bread rings coated in toasted sesame seeds, with a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Often compared to a Turkish-style bagel, simit is lighter, crunchier, and wonderfully nutty thanks to the generous coating of sesame seeds.

Whether served for breakfast, enjoyed as a midday snack, or used as the base of a simple sandwich, these sesame bread rings add a taste of Turkey to any table.

This recipe walks you step-by-step through shaping the distinctive twisted rings and achieving that signature simit flavor at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water (90–110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt

For the Coating

  • ½ cup grape molasses (üzüm pekmezi)
    – If unavailable, use date, fig, or carob molasses
  • ⅓ cup water
  • 1 ½ cups golden sesame seeds

How to Make Simit

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix the sugar with 1 ½ cups lukewarm water. Add the yeast, stir gently, and let sit for 5–8 minutes until it becomes foamy. If it does not foam, the yeast may be inactive.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together into a rough mass.

3. Knead

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, turn once to coat, and cover. Let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled.

4. Prepare for Shaping

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In one bowl, whisk together the molasses and ⅓ cup water. Spread the sesame seeds onto a large plate.

5. Divide and Shape

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Fold the rope in half so the ends meet, then twist the two strands together. Join the ends firmly to create a closed ring.

6. Coat in Molasses and Sesame

Dip each ring into the molasses mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Let excess drip off. Press gently into the sesame seeds, coating both sides thoroughly.
Place on the prepared baking sheets and let rest for 15 minutes.

7. Bake

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the simit turns a deep, rich golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Simit

  • Mind the water temperature: Anything hotter than 110°F can kill the yeast.
  • Choose a warm rise spot: Near a sunny window or next to a warm oven works well.
  • Shape with confidence: The dough is sturdy, so roll and twist it firmly.
  • Want a street-style look? Gently stretch the shaped rings wider to make them thinner and larger, similar to what’s sold in Turkey.

Variations

Simit is traditionally sesame-coated, but regional styles and creative versions include:

  • Gevrek – Crunchier, with a drier texture
  • Catma – More tightly twisted
  • Kandil Simiti – Small, crisp rings made for religious nights
  • Herb or Olive Simit – Add chopped olives or herbs into the dough
  • Filled Simit – Shape flatter rings and add melted cheese or other fillings before baking

How to Enjoy Simit

Simit is beloved across Turkey as an all-day food. Common pairings include:

  • Turkish tea (çay)
  • Sliced tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Feta-style white cheese
  • Olives
  • Labneh or cream cheese
  • Honey or fruit preserves
  • Yogurt-based drinks like ayran

It’s also delicious sliced and used as a sandwich base with cheese, fresh vegetables, or simple spreads.

 

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