Turkish Börek is a beloved savory pastry that is enjoyed across Turkey and the surrounding regions. This particular recipe is a homemade version filled with a delicious combination of ground meat, vegetables, and spices. With its flaky layers of dough and flavorful filling, Börek is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted with various fillings, but this one features a rich and satisfying ground meat filling that’s sure to please everyone.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 900 grams of flour
• 500 ml water
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 200 grams butter (softened)

For the Filling:

• 2-3 onions (finely chopped)
• 400-500 grams ground beef or lamb
• 1 tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Cumin (to taste)
• Sweet paprika (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 100 grams vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the water and mix until a soft, pliable dough forms.
   • Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
   • Add the ground meat to the onions and cook until browned.
   • Stir in the chopped tomato and bell pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
   • Season the filling with salt, cumin, sweet paprika, and black pepper according to your taste. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Shape the Börek:
   • Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal portions (about 8-10 balls).
   • Roll each dough ball into a thin sheet on a floured surface.
   • Brush each sheet generously with softened butter. Layer one sheet on top of the other until all the dough sheets are used.
   • Spread the cooled filling evenly over the layered dough.
4. Form the Börek:
   • Roll the dough with the filling into a tight log or coil, depending on your desired shape.
   • Place the shaped Börek onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the Börek:
   • Preheat the oven to 240°C (464°F).
   • Bake the Börek for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the Börek to cool slightly. Slice and serve hot with a side of yogurt or fresh salad.

Cooking Tips:

• Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes will make it easier to roll out and give the börek a lighter texture.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables to the filling, such as spinach or grated carrots, for a healthier twist.
• Crispy Layers: Make sure to brush each layer of dough generously with butter to ensure flaky, crispy layers in the final baked börek.

Storage:

Börek can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or a toaster to bring back its crispiness. You can also freeze the unbaked Börek and bake it directly from frozen; just extend the baking time by about 10 minutes.

 

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of meat for the filling?
   Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground lamb, chicken, or even turkey.
2. Can I make the Börek ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the Börek up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or freeze it for longer storage.
3. What can I serve with Börek?
   Börek pairs well with yogurt-based dips, fresh salads, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, mushrooms, or spinach and cheese.