Printed September 1, 2026
Simit French Toast with Tahini Cream
Istanbul's iconic sesame-crusted bread rings take an unexpected French toast journey, creating a crispy-creamy breakfast that bridges continents. The tahini cream adds a Middle Eastern whisper to this East-meets-West morning indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 large simit (Turkish sesame bread rings)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon warm water
- Pinch of sea salt
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Fresh figs or dates, optional
Preparation
The simit seller's morning call is as much a part of Istanbul's dawn as the call to prayer. These sesame-encrusted rings, typically eaten plain or with cheese, deserve a more luxurious treatment that celebrates their distinctive texture while introducing them to the comfort of French toast.
Preparing the Simit
Slice each simit in half horizontally as you would a bagel, creating four half-moon pieces. If the simit is very fresh, let the pieces sit out for 30 minutes to dry slightly, which helps them absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Making the Custard and Tahini Cream
In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined. For the tahini cream, whisk tahini, honey, yogurt, warm water, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and drizzle-able. Add more water if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
Cooking and Assembly
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip each simit piece in the custard for 10 seconds per side, then place in the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The sesame seeds will become extra toasted and fragrant. Serve immediately with a generous drizzle of tahini cream and a sprinkle of additional toasted sesame seeds. Fresh figs or dates make an excellent accompaniment.
