This Orange Sesame Seed Brittle (Simsemieh) is a sweet treat made with melted sugar and orange water, toasted sesame seeds and a dusting of cinnamon. Adapted from Faith Gorsky's recipe in An Edible Mosaic.
Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes.
Coat the bottom and sides of a 8x8” baking pan. Set aside.
While sesame seeds are toasting, add the sugar and orange blossom water to a heavy saucepan and cook over moderately high heat until the sugar is melted being careful not to burn it. Don’t stir until about two thirds of it is melted. Using a heatproof rubber spatula or wooden spoon to until all sugar is melted, about 6-8 minutes.
Remove the toasted sesame seeds from the oven and add to the melted sugar.
Working quickly stir to mix thoroughly an pour mixture into oiled pan. Spread evenly with spatula dipped in oil if necessary. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Allow to cool for two minutes and score into 16 squares with knife dipped in oil. After 2 more minutes flip onto cutting board and cut completely into squares.
Zest orange on top if desired an serve. Keep in an airtight container at room temperature.