Koulouria Thessalonikis: Greek Sesame Bread Rings

By Dimitra's Dishes · 150 min

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Proof the yeast: mix the yeast, water and sugar, and set aside for about 8 minutes until a puffy foam forms on top.
2. In a mixer bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead with the dough hook on low speed for 10 minutes, or by hand for 15 minutes, until soft and smooth.
3. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turn to coat, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Put the sesame seeds in a shallow, wide bowl.
6. Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches (20 cm) long, using olive oil rather than flour if sticky. Join the ends to form a ring. For a braided look, roll each piece to 14 to 16 inches, fold in half, twist into a rope and pinch the ends together.
8. Place no more than 5 rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Brush the rings with water, dip the tops in the sesame seeds, and let them rise for 20 minutes until puffy.
10. Bake one tray at a time for 15 to 20 minutes for plain rings, or about 25 minutes for twisted rings.

Summarized from Dimitra's Dishes's video. Watch it for the details.