Koulouri Thessalonikis Recipe – Greek Special

Koulouri Thessalonikis is a cherished Greek street food, particularly popular in Thessaloniki. These sesame-coated bread rings offer a delightful contrast between their crunchy exterior and soft, chewy interior. Often enjoyed as a quick breakfast or snack, koulouri is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. Making them at home allows you to experience the authentic taste and aroma of this beloved treat, perfect with a cup of Greek coffee or fresh orange juice.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time20 min
- Perform Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 40 min
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil
For the Coating:
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup sesame seeds (lightly toasted)
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix to form a dough.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Shape the Koulouri:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rope (about 10–12 inches long) and join the ends to form a ring.
In a shallow bowl, mix warm water with honey.
Dip each ring into the honey water, then coat thoroughly with sesame seeds.
Bake:
Place the coated rings on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Let cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy plain, or pair with cheese, jam, or olives.
Recipe Notes :
Dough Resting Time: Allow the dough to rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size to ensure proper fermentation.
Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for optimal baking results.
Sesame Seed Coating: For an even sesame coating, dip each dough ring into a honey-water mixture before rolling in toasted sesame seeds.
Storage Tips: Store cooled koulouri in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
Vegan Alternatives: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version of this traditional recipe.