Learn how to make Simit, aka Turkish Sesame Bagel, with these easy to follow step by step instructions.
- All purpose flour - Yeast & milk mixture - Kosher salt - Large egg - Vegetable oil
Place water, milk, sugar, and active dry yeast into a measuring cup. Give it a quick whisk, cover and let it sit on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes.
Place 5 cups of all-purpose flour, kosher salt, oil, egg, and now-risen yeast-milk mixture in a large mixing bowl. Start mixing by hand until it comes together.
Lightly dust the counter with flour and transfer the dough. Knead by hand to form a smooth and elastic dough until the dough is not sticking to your fingers. Cover & rest.
While the dough is rising, place sesame seeds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, and toast until they turn golden brown.
Fold the dough from each end onto itself towards the middle, gently pinch, and roll into a cylinder. Cut it into equal pieces.
Roll each dough ball into a long strand. Fold the string onto itself using your finger to hold it in the middle. Twist the dough in the opposite direction to form a spiral rope.
Dip each simit with molasses and then with sesame seeds. Repeat the same process for the rest of the simit. Transfer onto the baking sheet.
Bake in the oven until golden brown making sure to rotate them from top to bottom halfway through the baking process. Let them cool for 5 minutes and serve while still warm.
Be sure to check out the blog post for ingredient substitutions, helpful tips, serving and storage instructions.
If you are a fan of simit, you might also like Turkish borek. It is made by layering phyllo dough with feta & spinach. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.