Börek is a traditional savory pastry that is popular in many cultures, particularly in Turkey and the Balkans. This Spinach and Cheese Börek recipe combines crispy filo pastry with a rich filling of spinach, feta, and mozzarella, making it a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, this börek is sure to impress your family and guests.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Pastry and Filling:
- 470 g (16.5 oz) filo pastry sheets
- 1 onion, diced
- 260 g (9.2 oz) spinach, washed and finely chopped
- 200 g (7 oz) feta (or your preferred white cheese), crumbled or chopped
- 220 g (7.8 oz) shredded mozzarella
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Egg Wash and Garnish:
- 4 tbsp plain natural yogurt
- 4 tbsp oil
- 2 eggs
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp nigella seeds
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Dice the onion and place it in a large bowl.
- Wash the spinach thoroughly, let it dry, chop it finely, and add it to the bowl with the onion.
- Crumble or chop the feta cheese and add it to the bowl, followed by the shredded mozzarella. Season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, oil, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk together until the eggs are completely broken down.
- Assemble the Börek:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Unwrap the filo sheets. Take one sheet and fold it in half, positioning the longest side towards you.
- Spread a thin layer of the egg wash over the folded filo sheet.
- Create a row of the spinach and cheese filling near the bottom edge of the filo sheet, leaving a small gap.
- Lift the bottom edge of the filo sheet and roll it upwards to form a long tube.
- Take one end of the long tube and curl it inwards to shape it into a spiral.
- Place the assembled börek onto the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between them to prevent sticking.
- Garnish and Bake:
- Generously coat the börek with the egg wash, focusing particularly on the end of the spiral and any cracked edges.
- Sprinkle nigella and sesame seeds over the börek to garnish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the börek turns golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side of yogurt or a fresh green salad.
- Enjoy as a main dish, appetizer, or snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Keep Filo Moist: Keep the filo pastry covered with a damp cloth while assembling the börek to prevent it from drying out.
- Filling Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as herbs, chopped nuts, or other cheeses.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach: High in vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Eggs: Add protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free filo pastry sheets if available.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover börek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Delicious and Flavorful: The combination of spinach, cheese, and crispy pastry is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and quick preparation.
- Versatile: Perfect for any meal, from breakfast to dinner.
Conclusion: These Spinach and Cheese Börek are a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy filo pastry and flavorful filling make them a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!
Bon Appetit! Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute feta and mozzarella with cheeses like ricotta, halloumi, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the börek and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it fresh when ready to serve.
- How can I keep the filo pastry from drying out?
- Keep the filo pastry covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out.
- Can I freeze the börek?
- Yes, you can freeze unbaked börek. Just bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- What can I use instead of filo pastry?
- Puff pastry or yufka pastry can be used as alternatives to filo pastry.
- Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
- Yes, use vegan cheese alternatives and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for the egg wash.
- How do I prevent the filling from being too salty?
- Taste the filling before adding salt, as feta cheese is quite salty.
- Can I add meat to the filling?
- Yes, cooked ground meat like beef, lamb, or chicken can be added to the filling.
- What herbs can I add to the filling?
- Fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley can enhance the flavor of the filling.
- How do I know when the börek is done baking?
- The börek is done when the filo pastry is golden brown and crispy.