Koulouri (Greek Sesame Bread Rings)
These traditional Greek bread rings are subtly sweet, chewy, and coated in sesame seeds. Perfect for breakfast or a light snack, they are naturally vegan and satisfying.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 2 hr 15 min
- Serves
- 6
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 428 kcal
Allergen information: may contain gluten and sesame. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
Ingredients
- 380 gall-purpose flour
- 7 gactive dry yeast
- 15 ggranulated sugar
- 5 gsalt
- 250 mlwarm water
- 30 mlolive oil
coating
- 60 mlgrape molasses
- 120 mlwater
- 150 gsesame seeds
Equipment
baking sheets · large bowl · wire rack · parchment paper · shallow dishes
The method
Step by step
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
- 2
Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: The water should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- 3
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- 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.
About 1 hr
Cook’s note: A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good place for dough to rise.
- 5
While the dough is rising, prepare the coating by whisking the grape molasses and water in a shallow dish.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Ensure the molasses is fully dissolved in the water.
- 6
Spread the sesame seeds on a separate plate or shallow dish.
- 7
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
About 10 min
- 8
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: For even koulouri, use a kitchen scale to weigh the dough pieces.
- 9
Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Try to keep the thickness consistent along the rope.
- 10
Form each rope into a ring by joining the ends and pressing firmly to seal.
About 3 min
- 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.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Be generous with the sesame seeds for maximum flavor and crunch.
- 12
Place the coated koulouri rings on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.
About 1 min
- 13
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
About 20 min
Cook’s note: Baking time may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on them.
- 14
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 427.9kcal
- Protein
- 11.3g
- Carbs
- 56.9g
- Fat
- 17.8g
- Fibre
- 5g
- Sugar
- 2.8g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store leftover koulouri in an airtight container at room temperature.
Reheat in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.
More recipes
All recipesmain course
Aloo Posto (Potato with Poppy Seeds)
Aloo Posto is a traditional Bengali dish featuring potatoes cooked in a creamy, subtly spiced poppy seed paste. This simple yet flavorful vegan recipe highlights the nutty aroma of poppy seeds and the comforting texture of potatoes. It's a staple side dish in Bengali cuisine, often served with rice.
50 min 214 kcaldessert
Tanghulu (Candied Fruit Skewers)
Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese snack featuring fresh fruit coated in a hard, clear sugar candy shell. This recipe uses common fruits like strawberries and grapes, offering a delightful crunch followed by juicy sweetness. It's a simple yet impressive vegan dessert.
45 min 528 kcalmain course
Moroccan Chicken with Vermicelli (Djej M'hammer)
This comforting Moroccan dish features tender chicken pieces braised in a rich, aromatic sauce. It's served atop delicate vermicelli pasta, absorbing all the delicious flavors. A perfect hearty meal for any weeknight.
1 hr 25 min 871 kcalmain course
Aloo Gobi
This vibrant Aloo Gobi brings together tender potatoes and perfectly cooked cauliflower florets in a fragrant, spiced tomato-onion base. A classic Indian vegan main, its comforting flavors and delightful textures make it an ideal accompaniment to fluffy rice or warm flatbreads.
1 hr 213 kcalbreakfast
Banana Oat Porridge
This comforting and nutritious banana oat porridge is a perfect start to any day. Made with simple ingredients, it's naturally sweet and creamy, offering sustained energy for busy mornings. It's a wholesome vegan breakfast option that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
15 mindinner
Traditional Claypot Rice
This classic Cantonese claypot rice features tender chicken and savory Chinese sausage cooked over rice in a clay pot, creating a delicious crispy bottom. It's a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a family dinner.
1 hr 20 min 884 kcalappetizer
Vegetable Samosa
These crispy, savory samosas are filled with a warmly spiced potato and pea mixture, encased in a perfectly golden, flaky crust. They make a delightful appetizer for any occasion, offering a taste of traditional Indian street food.
1 hr 55 min 269 kcal