Simit

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 ¼ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup sesame seeds
• ½ cup molasses (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a rope, approximately 20 inches long. Twist the ends of the rope together to form a circular shape, then gently press the ends together to seal.

5. Place the sesame seeds in a shallow dish. Dip each simit into the molasses, coating it lightly, then roll it in the sesame seeds until evenly coated.

6. Arrange the coated simit on the prepared baking sheet and let them rest for 10-15 minutes.

7. Bake the simit in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

8. Allow the simit to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Turkish simit with your favorite spreads or as part of a traditional Turkish breakfast. Afiyet olsun! (Bon Appétit!)