Simit, also known as Turkish bagels, are a popular snack in Turkey and other parts of the Middle East. Made from simple ingredients, these round bread rings are coated in sesame seeds and have a delicious chewy texture. They are perfect for breakfast, as a snack or as an accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of simit and how to make them from scratch in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Milk, Plain Yogurt, Flour, Sourdough Starter, Warm
This Beer Can Chicken recipe is a classic with a twist. Instead of using store-bought rub, make your own with garlic, herbs, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a kick. The beer helps to keep the chicken moist while cooking, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
2of 20
Easy 2 Ingredient Bagels
Main Ingredients: Self Rising Flour, Non Fat Greek Yogurt, Egg
Add a touch of sweetness to your Beer Can Chicken with this delicious honey mustard recipe. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a mouth-watering glaze that is sure to please. Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3of 20
Homemade Bagels
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Warm Water, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you like a little heat, then this Spicy Beer Can Chicken recipe is for you. Made with a fiery blend of spices and hot sauce, this chicken is sure to awaken your taste buds. Pair with a cold beer to cool down the heat.
4of 20
Everything Bagels
Main Ingredients: Instant Yeast, Gluten Flour, Water, Salt, Malt Powder
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a lighter and fresher take on Beer Can Chicken. The zesty combination of lemon and herbs gives this chicken a bright and delicious flavor. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.
5of 20
2 Ingredient Weight Watchers Bagels
Main Ingredients: Self Rising Flour, Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Bagels
For a sweet and savory twist on Beer Can Chicken, try this Maple Glazed recipe. The combination of maple syrup, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard creates a delicious glaze that is sure to impress. Serve with a side of rice for a complete meal.
6of 20
Pizza Bagels
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Ragu R Old World Style R Pasta Sauce, Shredded
Take your Beer Can Chicken to the next level with this fajita-inspired recipe. The chicken is infused with Mexican spices and then served with sautéed peppers and onions for a flavorful and colorful meal.
7of 20
Breakfast Bagels
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Baby Spinach, Avocado, Large Tomato, Red Onion
This Beer Can Chicken recipe is perfect for those summer BBQs. The chicken is basted with a homemade BBQ sauce while cooking, resulting in a tangy and delicious dish. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
8of 20
Easy Lunchbox Idea Bagels Packed for Lunch
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Blueberries, Strawberries, Trail Mix, Cream
Take your taste buds on a trip to Greece with this flavorful Beer Can Chicken recipe. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs, giving it a refreshing and tangy flavor. Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
9of 20
Homemade Bagel
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, Olive
Spice things up with this Cajun-inspired Beer Can Chicken recipe. The chicken is coated in a homemade Cajun seasoning and then cooked on the grill, resulting in a spicy and delicious dish. Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw for a perfect pairing.
This Beer Can Chicken recipe is perfect for those who love a little sweetness in their meals. The chicken is basted with a delicious teriyaki and pineapple glaze while cooking, resulting in a tropical and flavorful dish. Serve with a side of grilled pineapple for a complete meal.
11of 20
Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Jalapenos, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Cornmeal
Who says Beer Can Chicken can't be fancy? This Beer Can Chicken Alfredo recipe takes things up a notch by serving the chicken with a creamy and indulgent Alfredo sauce. Serve with a side of pasta for a elegant and delicious meal.
12of 20
Bagels With Salmon And Sprouts
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon, Capers, Pickles
Add some Asian-inspired flavors to your Beer Can Chicken with this Sriracha Lime recipe. The chicken is marinated in a spicy and tangy mixture of Sriracha, lime, and soy sauce, resulting in a bold and delicious dish. Serve with a side of rice for a complete meal.
13of 20
Lox and Bagels
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Cream Cheese, Radishes, Capers, Smoked Salmon
This Beer Can Chicken recipe is perfect for those who love sweet and sour flavors. The chicken is basted with a delicious balsamic glaze while cooking, resulting in a tangy and flavorful dish. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
14of 20
SOURDOUGH BAGELS
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Malt Powder, Water, Oil, Sourdough
Add a tropical twist to your Beer Can Chicken with this Mango Salsa recipe. The chicken is served with a fresh and colorful mango salsa, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Serve with a side of coconut rice for a complete meal.
15of 20
Low-Carb Keto Bagels
Main Ingredients: Mozzarella Cheese, Cream Cheese, Almond Flour, Large
Spice things up with this Cajun Ranch Beer Can Chicken recipe. The chicken is coated in a homemade Cajun seasoning and then topped with a creamy ranch sauce for a flavorful and indulgent dish. Serve with a side of potato salad for a perfect pairing.
16of 20
Bagels & Lox
Main Ingredients: Bagel, Baby Kale, Spinach, Arugula, Tomatoes, Scallion
Take your Beer Can Chicken to the next level with these tasty Beer Can Chicken Tacos. The chicken is infused with Mexican flavors and then served in soft tortillas with your favorite taco toppings. Serve with a side of refried beans for a complete meal.
17of 20
Nicoise Bagels
Main Ingredients: Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This Beer Can Chicken recipe is perfect for those who love flavorful and juicy chicken. The chicken is basted with a delicious lemon garlic butter while cooking, resulting in a tender and moist dish. Serve with a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
18of 20
Breakfast Pizza Bagels!
Main Ingredients: Bagel, Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella, Jalapeno, Pepperoni
Turn your Beer Can Chicken into a delicious and easy lunch with these salad sandwiches. The chicken is shredded and mixed with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing, then served between two slices of bread for a satisfying meal.
19of 20
Pepperoni Pizza Bagels
Main Ingredients: Bagels, Pizza Sauce, Veggie, Pepperoni Slices, Pizza
Take your Beer Can Chicken to the next level with these fun and delicious skewers. The chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and then threaded onto skewers with colorful vegetables. Serve with a side of rice for a complete meal.
20of 20
Easy Air Fryer Bagels
Main Ingredients: Everything Bagel, Cinnamon Sugar, Sliced Pickled
For a sweet and savory twist on Beer Can Chicken, try this Beer Can Chicken and Waffles recipe. The chicken is served on top of crispy waffles and then drizzled with a sweet and savory maple glaze. Serve with a side of greens for a complete meal.
History of Simit
The Origins
Simit is believed to have originated in Turkey during the Ottoman Empire. It was initially known as "gevrek" and was a popular street food sold by street vendors. Over time, it became a staple in Turkish cuisine and spread to other neighboring countries like Greece, Armenia, and Bulgaria.
The Name
The word "simit" is derived from the Arabic word "samīd" which means white bread. It is also referred to as "gevrek" in some regions, which translates to crispy or crunchy. The name is a reflection of the bread's texture, which is both chewy and crispy at the same time.
The Symbolism
Simit holds a special place in Turkish culture and is considered a symbol of unity and togetherness. It is often shared among friends and family, and is also a common offering at weddings and other social gatherings.
Making Simit at Home
The Dough
The key to making the perfect simit lies in the dough. Traditionally, simit dough is made from flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt. However, some recipes also call for the addition of olive oil, honey, or molasses to give the bread a richer flavor.
The Shaping
After the dough has risen, it is divided into small balls and then rolled into long ropes. The ropes are then twisted into a ring shape and the ends are joined together to form a round bread ring.
The Sesame Coating
The final step is coating the simit in sesame seeds. The ring is dipped in a mixture of molasses and water, then rolled in sesame seeds before being baked in the oven.
Serving Simit
Simit is best served fresh out of the oven while still warm and crispy. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with cheese, olives, or a variety of toppings such as Nutella or honey.
In conclusion, simit is not just a delicious snack, but also a cultural symbol deeply rooted in Turkish history. Now that you know the history and process of making simit, why not try making it at home and share this tasty treat with your friends and family? With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, simit is the perfect addition to any meal or gathering.