Cheese Börek is a savory pastry filled with a rich, creamy cheese mixture, and it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. With crispy layers of phyllo dough and a flavorful cheese filling, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bake. This simple recipe is full of flavor, combining creamy cheese, fresh parsley, and a tangy yogurt sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 4 phyllo sheets
- 300 g full-fat cheese (crumbled, such as feta or ricotta)
- ½ bunch parsley (chopped)
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp yogurt
- ½ cup oil (120 ml)
- ½ cup milk (120 ml)
- 2 cups water (500 ml)
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Crumble the cheese into a mixing bowl and chop the parsley finely. Combine them to make the filling.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, yogurt, milk, oil, and salt together until well combined.
- Assemble the Börek:
- Grease a baking pan and lay down the first phyllo sheet. Brush lightly with some of the sauce mixture.
- Add a layer of the cheese and parsley filling.
- Repeat layering phyllo sheets, filling, and brushing with sauce until all ingredients are used up.
- Bake the Börek:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the börek for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh tomato and cucumber salad.
- Enjoy with a dollop of plain yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a light soup like tomato or lentil soup.
- Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a sophisticated meal.
- Top with some crumbled feta and extra parsley for added flavor and color.
Cooking Tips:
- If the phyllo sheets are dry, cover them with a damp kitchen towel while you work to prevent them from cracking.
- Feel free to substitute the cheese with a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta for a milder taste.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of spice.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in calcium and protein from the cheese and eggs, beneficial for bone health and muscle repair.
- Parsley adds a fresh burst of flavor and provides antioxidants and vitamin C.
- The phyllo dough offers a light, crispy texture without being overly heavy.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy (cheese, milk, and yogurt), eggs, and gluten (phyllo dough).
- Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a gluten-free diet.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cheese Börek is an incredibly flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With layers of crispy phyllo dough and a savory cheese filling, it’s simple yet satisfying. The creamy yogurt sauce adds moisture and tang, making each bite irresistible. It’s also easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends and family.
Conclusion:
This Cheese Börek with parsley is the ideal dish when you’re craving something savory and comforting. With its crispy layers and creamy filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it an elegant yet easy recipe to prepare. Whether served as a light meal or a side dish, this börek is sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes, you can substitute the cheese with ricotta, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses. Feta is also a popular choice for its tangy flavor.
- Can I make the börek ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the börek in advance, assemble it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the assembled börek before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake it from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 45-50 minutes.
- Can I use store-bought phyllo dough? Yes, store-bought phyllo dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
- Is it necessary to brush the phyllo with the sauce? Brushing the phyllo with the sauce gives it a golden, crispy texture and enhances the flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less crispy crust.
- Can I use non-dairy substitutes? Yes, you can use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free yogurt to make the dish vegan.
- What can I serve this with? It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato soup.
- Is this recipe spicy? No, the recipe is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a mild kick.
- Can I use other herbs instead of parsley? Yes, dill, thyme, or basil would also work well in this recipe for different flavor profiles.
- How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out? Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work with them to prevent them from drying out.