Commonly dubbed as Turkish bagel, the origins of the Turkish sesame ring pastry called Simit dates back to the Anatolian era of the Ottoman Empire. It’s perhaps Turkey’s quintessential street food -- and it has been since the 1400s. The simit had its place on sultans' tables, in palace kitchens as well as the hands of the labourers. It is an adaptable food item, fit for both a king and a peasant.
From the Palace Kitchens to the Streets
The name originates from the word simithane, “ring of flour”, which was the name of a flour depot. Back in the time of the sultans, simit was considered to be a valuable and luxurious food item, being a sweetened bread in the shape of a ring, scattered with sesame seeds. In fact, the sultan would provide iftar (break-fast meal) for those who fasted during the month of Ramadan. Simit was also presented as a gift, given to the soldiers on guard as a token of the sultan’s appreciation. This is why in Turkish culture simit was classified as a valuable offering. Affordable, widely available, and filling in nature are some of the things that make simit a popular community food. It’s a staple food item that is readily accessible to the public, from town bakeries, simit wagons and street food vendors of men steadily balancing a massive tray on their head. Simit entered into the fast-food industry in the 1990s, making an explosion of popularity. Simit Sarayı is currently the most popular and widespread simit fast-food chain, with 128 cafes, followed by Fırıncafe. Simit may be enjoyed on the go or in a pleasurable and leisurely setting, with a distinctive taste and convenience. Although extremely popular, simit has maintained its originality. It has, however, been taken to new heights. With an enhanced flavour and options of adding cheese and tomato, it’s common to enjoy a simit like a bagel next to a traditional cup of Turkish tea.
Turkish Cultural Icon
A Turkish cultural icon that it is, simit is also the topic of poetry. A lot has been written about its comforting nature that reminds them of childhood. Upon biting into a simit, poets remember a quick meal to fill the tummy of a young boy kicking a deflated football on a dry, unmarked, dusty earth. Common simit-related nostalgia also involves poets’ days as a young man grabbing a meal on the go between lectures or their days as a mature gentleman who now enjoys the simplicity of a simit with a cup of tea with old friends. Simit even makes appearances in many ancient European paintings, including that of Giovanni Birindesi and Warwick Goble's oil painting titled "Simit Seller." Simit tastes slightly sweet without the overbearing kick. Upon tasting the treat, it is difficult not to make it a part of your routine. Walk in to
Sahan Mezopotamian Street Food and smell the sweet essence of our simit. We dare you to pass our freshly baked simits without your mouth watering.
