Crispy Turkish Street Simit Recipe (Molasses & Sesame)

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir in the oil, then add flour little by little. Mix in the salt and knead until you get a medium-firm, smooth dough.

Without waiting for the first rise, divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Cover them with a clean towel so the surface doesn’t dry out.

Whisk water and molasses in a shallow bowl until well blended. Spread toasted sesame seeds on a wide plate for easy coating.

Roll each dough ball into a rope. Fold in half, twist into a braid, then join the ends to form a ring.

Dip each ring into the molasses water, then coat all sides generously with toasted sesame. Repeat for the remaining pieces.

Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Gently widen the rings with your hands and place them on the tray. Cover and let proof for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place a small heatproof dish of water in a corner of the oven; the steam helps the crust set nicely.

Bake in the preheated convection oven for 15–20 minutes, until deeply golden. Let them rest for 5 minutes, then serve.