Simit - Turkish Sesame Bread

Ingredients

• Warm water (1 cup)
• Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon)
• All-purpose flour (3 cups)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Molasses (1/4 cup)
• Sesame seeds (1/2 cup)
• Additional warm water for dipping (1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of sugar, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Sprinkle the 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the frothy yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 18 inches long. Twist two ropes together to form a circle, pinching the ends together to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough.
7. In a shallow dish, combine 1/4 cup of molasses and 1/2 cup of warm water. In another dish, place 1/2 cup of sesame seeds. Dip each twisted circle of dough first in the molasses mixture, then in the sesame seeds, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
8. Arrange the coated circles of dough on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the Simit are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Allow the Simit to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving, and enjoy them warm.