Mordovian-Style Simit

Ingredients

In this Mordovian adaptation of the Turkish simit, the dough is slightly sweeter to cater to the Mordovian preference for a touch of sweetness in their pastries. Additionally, the coating of sesame seeds is combined with poppy seeds, adding a unique twist to the traditional simit. We alse have the original recipe for Simit, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 60ml (¼ cup) vegetable oil 60ml (¼ cup) vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 100g (1 cup) sesame seeds 100g (1 cup) sesame seeds
• 50g (½ cup) poppy seeds 50g (½ cup) poppy seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and granulated sugar.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm milk and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 30cm (12 inches) in length.
7. 7.
   Shape each rope into a circle, overlapping the ends and twisting them together to form a ring.
8. 8.
   In a shallow bowl, combine the sesame seeds and poppy seeds. Dip each ring into the seed mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
9. 9.
   Place the coated rings on the prepared baking sheet and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
10. 10.
    Bake the simit in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their flavor and aroma.
• Poppy seeds — Gently crush the poppy seeds using a mortar and pestle to release their oils and enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can brush the simit with melted butter before baking.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough.
• Experiment with different seed coatings such as flaxseeds or sunflower seeds for added variety.
• Serve the Mordovian-Style Simit warm for the best taste and texture.
• These simit are best enjoyed on the day they are baked, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Mordovian-Style Simit as a delightful breakfast or snack. They are perfect on their own or can be enjoyed with butter, jam, or cream cheese.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Mordovian-Style Simit on a platter, showcasing their golden color and ring shape. You can sprinkle some extra sesame seeds and poppy seeds on top for an added visual appeal.