Koulouri (Greek Sesame Bread Rings)

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

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1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.

2. 2

   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

   Ongeveer 3 min

   Tip van de kok: The water should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.

3. 3

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

   Ongeveer 10 min

   Tip van de kok: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

4. 4

   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

   Ongeveer 1 uur

   Tip van de kok: A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good place for dough to rise.

5. 5

   While the dough is rising, prepare the coating by whisking the grape molasses and water in a shallow dish.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: Ensure the molasses is fully dissolved in the water.

6. 6

   Spread the sesame seeds on a separate plate or shallow dish.

7. 7

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

   Ongeveer 10 min

8. 8

   Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: For even koulouri, use a kitchen scale to weigh the dough pieces.

9. 9

   Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length.

   Ongeveer 5 min

   Tip van de kok: Try to keep the thickness consistent along the rope.

10. 10

    Form each rope into a ring by joining the ends and pressing firmly to seal.

    Ongeveer 3 min

11. 11

    Dip each koulouri ring first into the grape molasses mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then immediately transfer it to the plate of sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.

    Ongeveer 5 min

    Tip van de kok: Be generous with the sesame seeds for maximum flavor and crunch.

12. 12

    Place the coated koulouri rings on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.

    Ongeveer 1 min

13. 13

    Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

    Ongeveer 20 min

    Tip van de kok: Baking time may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on them.

14. 14

    Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.