SAEDNEWS: Turkish Simit Kandil is a delicious, sesame-coated pastry that is especially popular during religious and festive occasions. With its crispy exterior, soft interior, and rich sesame flavor, it is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed with tea or coffee. Here's how you can make this traditional Turkish pastry at home.
Accoridng to Saednews, In this article, we will explain how to make Kandil Simit, one of Turkey’s most delicious and aromatic traditional pastries. If you would like to learn how to prepare this tasty Turkish treat at home, follow this step-by-step guide to the end.
You might think that making Kandil Simit is difficult because of the ingredients required. However, the ingredients are simple, widely available, and reasonably priced. The quantities below are enough to serve approximately four people.
Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
Milk | ½ cup |
Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Instant yeast | 2 tablespoons |
Vegetable oil | 8 tablespoons |
Flour | 4 cups |
Toasted sesame seeds | ½ cup |
Grape molasses | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | As needed |
Now that you are ready to prepare this delicious and fragrant Kandil Simit, follow these steps carefully. Keep in mind that Simit may be prepared differently in various regions.
Pour some lukewarm water into a glass. Add the yeast and sugar, then stir well until combined.
Cover the glass and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. While waiting, you can prepare the other ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and the activated yeast mixture. Stir well until fully blended.
Before adding the flour, sift it two or three times to help the dough rise better during baking. If you would like an even fluffier texture, you can add a small amount of baking powder. Then add the oil and flour to the bowl.
Mix and knead the ingredients until the dough comes together. Depending on the type of flour used, you may need slightly more or less flour. The ideal consistency is achieved when the dough forms a smooth, cohesive ball.
Transfer the dough to a clean work surface and knead it thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. For a better texture, gently slam the dough onto the work surface 15–20 times. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest for one hour or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has doubled in volume, knead it lightly again to release excess air.
Divide the dough into small portions. Cut each portion into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope. Make sure the ropes are neither too thick nor too thin.
Join the ends of two ropes together and twist or braid them. Press the ends firmly to prevent them from coming apart during shaping.
Repeat the process until all the dough is used. Allow the shaped dough to rest again for a short period so it can rise slightly before baking.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) about 10 minutes before baking.
If your sesame seeds are not already toasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir continuously until they turn golden brown. Do not leave them unattended, as they can burn quickly.
Place the toasted sesame seeds in a shallow dish. In another bowl, mix the grape molasses with a little lukewarm water. Dip each risen dough ring into the molasses mixture, then coat it generously with sesame seeds.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Arrange the coated simit rings on the tray and bake at 190°C (374°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. If desired, switch the oven to the grill setting during the final few minutes for extra color. Once baked, let the simit cool before serving. You can also store it in a sealed bag in the refrigerator and enjoy it later.
Make sure the dough ropes are long enough before twisting. Short ropes may shrink during the second rise and lose their shape.
Always preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) before baking.
Avoid adding too much flour. Excess flour can make the simit dry and dense.
Ensure the ends of the twisted dough are firmly sealed to prevent them from opening during baking.
Toasting the sesame seeds enhances the flavor and gives the simit its characteristic aroma.
The secret to making excellent Kandil Simit lies in properly proofing the yeast, kneading the dough thoroughly, and coating the rings generously with toasted sesame seeds. By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy authentic Turkish Kandil Simit with a crispy exterior, soft interior, and rich sesame flavor.
