Koulouri Thessalonikis – The Greek Sesame Bagel Recipe

Introduction

Koulouri Thessalonikis is a classic Greek sesame-coated bread ring, similar to a bagel but lighter and airier. This popular street snack is crunchy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for breakfast or a quick bite. Making it at home is easier than you might think!

Ingredients

• 16 g dry active yeast (0.56 oz)
• 300 ml lukewarm water (10 fl.oz)
• 150 g strong bread flour (5.3 oz)
• 350 g all-purpose flour (12.3 oz)
• 50 g granulated sugar (1.8 oz)
• 10 g salt (0.35 oz)
• Olive oil (for greasing)
• 500 ml water (17 fl.oz)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 200 g sesame seeds (7 oz)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the lukewarm water and dry active yeast. Let it rest for 5-6 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. Step 2: Add strong bread flour, all-purpose flour, 50 g sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium-high speed for 7-8 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl. If kneading by hand, work the dough for about 15 minutes until soft and elastic.
3. Step 3: Generously grease a bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise undisturbed for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it doubles in size.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Prepare two bowls: one with 500 ml water mixed with 2 tbsp sugar, and another with the sesame seeds.
5. Step 5: On a clean surface, divide the dough into about 10 equal pieces. Lightly brush the surface with olive oil if the dough sticks. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and cover with a towel to prevent drying.
6. Step 6: Roll each ball into a long roll, then join the ends together to form a circle of even size.
7. Step 7: Dip each ring fully into the sugar water, then immediately coat it evenly with sesame seeds using a spoon.
8. Step 8: Place 4 rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 17-20 minutes until golden brown. Watch closely to avoid over-browning.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of honey to the sugar water before dipping the rings.
• If you don’t have bread flour, use all-purpose flour but expect a slightly softer texture.
• Don’t add extra flour when shaping the dough; use olive oil to prevent sticking instead.

Storage

Store leftover koulouria in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them briefly in a toaster or oven to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly and thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make koulouria without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand for about 15 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. It takes more effort but works just as well.

Why do I need to dip the dough rings in sugar water before coating with sesame?

Dipping in sugar water helps the sesame seeds stick better and gives the koulouria a slight sweet glaze after baking, enhancing their flavor and texture.