Simit (Turkish Circular Bread)

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium bowl, combine dry ingredients (flour, yeast, salt). Make a well in the center and pour olive oil and lukewarm water into well.
2. 2
   Knead dough with your hands for 5-10 minutes. Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Take 2 pieces and stretch dough into thin strips about 30 to 35 cm long. Cover rest of dough to prevent it from drying out.
3. 3
   Place 2 strips side-by-side and pinch ends. Twist them together and pinch to join ends.
4. 4
   Place rings on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Let dough sit in a warm place for 20-30 minutes.
5. 5
   Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
6. 6
   Pour sesame seeds into a pan and turn fire on medium heat. Stir seeds every 4-5 minutes until golden. Set aside in a bowl big enough to fit rings of dough.
7. 7
   Pour molasses and boiling water into another bowl big enough to fit rings of dough. Whisk to dissolve molasses completely.
8. 8
   Dip both sides of the rings in molasses mixture and drain excess moisture. Coat both sides in sesame seeds. Transfer to baking sheets.
9. 9
   Bake in preheated oven for about 17 minutes. Bon appetit!