The history of the simit (Turkish bagel) dates back to the Anatolian era of the Ottoman Empire. The love affair with the simit extends to the 1500s when it was first made in palace kitchens during the time of Suleiman the Magnificent. At that time, the flour storages in the palace were called simithane (simit house), while the sultan’s bakery was called the Simit Bakery. Simit was considered back in the time of the sultans to be a valuable and luxurious food item. During the month of Ramadan, the sultan would provide iftar (break-fast meal) for those who are fasting, and as a gift, give simit to the soldiers on guard as a token of his appreciation. As such, the simit was classified as a valuable offering in Turkish culture. And still, it is a staple community food because of its affordability, availability and filling nature.