Simit bread, a beloved street food in Turkey, are golden sesame-coated rings that resemble bagels.

Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light lunch, these bread rings are delightfully crisp on the outside and soft inside.

Making them at home may seem ambitious, but with a little patience and care, you can enjoy authentic Turkish flavors in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 250g strong white bread flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• 1 tsp (5g) fast-action dried yeast

• 150ml warm water (plus extra for the molasses mix)

For coating:

• 100g sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses or molasses syrup

• 50ml water

Method

1. Prepare the dough

Combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the yeast and 150ml warm water, mixing to form a rough dough. Tip the mixture onto a work surface and knead for 10–12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Return the dough to a clean bowl, cover, and leave it to rise until doubled in size, about 1–2 hours.

2. Toast the sesame seeds and prepare molasses water

While the dough rises, toast the sesame seeds in a dry frying pan over medium heat until golden. Set aside. Mix the molasses or pomegranate molasses with 50ml water in a wide, shallow bowl. This will give the simit its signature glossy coating.

3. Shape and coat the rings

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 45cm in length. Fold the rope back on itself, twist the two strands together, and form a ring, pressing the ends to seal. Dip each ring into the molasses water to coat, then roll it in the toasted sesame seeds until fully covered. Place the rings on a baking tray, cover, and let them prove for another 45–60 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas 6).

4. Bake the simit

Once puffed, uncover the rings and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Wrap them in a clean tea towel to keep them fresh. These rings can be made a day ahead and warmed gently before serving.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

• Serve simit bread with a selection of dips like hummus or labneh for a Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast or snack.

• They pair beautifully with sliced vegetables, cheese, or olives for a meze-style platter.

• For added flavor, sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top just before baking.

• Store in an airtight container or wrapped in a tea towel to maintain their soft interior.

Reflection

Baking simit bread at home is more than just a culinary exercise—it's a moment to slow down, enjoy the kneading process, and appreciate the simple joy of transforming humble ingredients into golden, aromatic bread. Each sesame-crusted ring tells a story of tradition and care, turning an ordinary meal into a sensory experience.