Taste Guide

The Story of Simit: Turkey's Iconic Street Food

Golden, crisp, and generously coated with roasted sesame seeds, simit is one of the most recognisable and beloved foods in Turkish cuisine. For centuries it has been a familiar sight in bakeries, cafes, street carts, and breakfast tables across Turkey. Simple in appearance yet deeply connected to everyday life, simit has become much more than a baked bread ring. It is a symbol of Turkish food culture. A History Stretching Back to the Ottoman Empire The history of simit dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where records show similar sesame-coated breads being sold in Istanbul as early as the 16th century. Over time, simit became a staple enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Its affordability, portability, and satisfying flavour made it a popular choice for workers, students, travellers, and families alike. Regional Styles Across Turkey Although simit is enjoyed throughout Turkey, different regions have developed their own distinctive styles. Istanbul simit is typically lighter in colour, with a crisp exterior and a generous coating of sesame seeds. In Ankara, simit is often darker and richer in flavour due to a longer baking process. In Izmir, the local version is known as gevrek, meaning crispy, and is celebrated for its extra crunchy texture and distinctive bite. These regional differences reflect the diversity of Turkish culinary traditions while preserving the essence of what makes simit unique. Simit at the Breakfast Table Simit plays an important role in Turkish breakfast culture. It is commonly served alongside freshly brewed Turkish tea, white cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fruit preserves. Many people also enjoy it with cream cheese, labneh, honey, or traditional Turkish spreads. Beyond breakfast, simit remains a popular snack throughout the day, whether enjoyed at home, in the office, or on the go. Versatility at Every Occasion One of the reasons simit remains so popular is its versatility. It can be served as part of a large family breakfast, enjoyed with a cup of tea during an afternoon break, or paired with a variety of cheeses and deli products for a light meal. Its balanced flavour makes it an excellent companion to both savoury and sweet foods. Simit Beyond Turkey Today, simit has become increasingly popular beyond Turkey, finding its place in bakeries and specialty food stores around the world. While similar bread rings exist across the Middle East, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean, authentic Turkish simit is distinguished by its unique texture, rich sesame aroma, and long-standing cultural significance. For many Turkish people, simit is closely associated with everyday memories: breakfast with family, tea breaks with friends, mornings on the way to work, and simple moments shared around the table. It is a food that combines tradition, convenience, and comfort in a way few products can. Whether enjoyed with premium Turkish cheeses and tea as part of a traditional Turkish breakfast, or simply on its own, simit continues to represent one of the most authentic and enduring tastes of Turkey. Browse the Bakery and Pastry collection and the Turkish Breakfast range at Bakkal.ae to complete your spread. Recommended Products for this Content