Simit: A traditional Turkish recipe, circular sesame seed bread rings, perfect for breakfast or snacking. Originating from Turkey, this recipe has been cherished for generations. Made from simple ingredients like flour, yeast, water, and sesame seeds, simits are baked to golden perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and soft interior. Enjoyed as a staple breakfast item or as a satisfying snack, simits offer a delightful taste of Turkish culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon instant yeast

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 ¼ cups warm water

- ½ cup sesame seeds

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape each into a long rope.

5. Join the ends of each rope to form a circular ring shape.

6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Spread sesame seeds on a plate. Dip each ring into water, then into the sesame seeds, coating evenly.

8. Place the coated rings onto the prepared baking sheet and let them rest for 20 minutes.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

10. Allow simits to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. All-purpose flour (4 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 1560 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 328 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 44 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 2 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 20 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of B vitamins, including niacin and riboflavin.

  - Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, and zinc. Also contains small amounts of calcium and potassium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Good source of carbohydrates and protein, providing energy and aiding in muscle repair and growth. Contains some essential vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health.

2. Instant yeast (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 3 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 3 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of B vitamins, particularly B6 and B9.

  - Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron and potassium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in protein and B vitamins, particularly B6 and B9, which are essential for metabolism and cell growth. 

3. Sugar (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 49 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 13 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: No significant mineral content.

  - Nutritional benefits: Provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content. However, it is high in calories and offers minimal nutritional value beyond energy.

4. Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 2325 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: Primarily composed of sodium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Essential for flavor enhancement and regulation of body fluids. However, excessive salt intake may contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.

5. Warm water (1 ¼ cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: No significant mineral content.

  - Nutritional benefits: Hydration is essential for overall health and helps with digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.

6. Sesame seeds (½ cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 413 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 14 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 14 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 35 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 9 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin B6 and vitamin E.

  - Minerals: Excellent source of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.

  - Nutritional benefits: High in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium and iron. Sesame seeds also contain antioxidants and are beneficial for heart health and bone strength.

These values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.