Introduction

Börek is a beloved, flaky pastry filled with a savory mixture of meat, cheese, and herbs, layered between delicate phyllo dough. This dish is a staple in Turkish and Balkan cuisine, making it perfect for a family meal or a tasty snack at any time of the day.

• Yield: 12 Servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

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Why You Should Try This Börek

• Crispy & Flaky: The phyllo dough creates a light and crisp texture that holds the delicious filling perfectly.
• Customizable Filling: This recipe can be easily adapted with different fillings, whether you prefer meat, cheese, or vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or snack—Börek is versatile and always a hit.

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Ingredients for Börek

For the Yogurt Mixture:

• 3 eggs
• 2 cups plain yogurt
• ¼ cup olive oil

the Filling:

• 1½ lb ground meat (beef, lamb, or a mix)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chopped spinach
• ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
• ½ cup chopped parsley
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup grated mozzarella
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Assembly:

• 1 package (1 lb) phyllo sheets
• 2 teaspoons nigella seeds or sesame seeds

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Börek

1. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, plain yogurt, and olive oil until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with chopped spinach, dill, parsley, feta cheese, mozzarella, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

3. Prepare the Phyllo Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Lightly brush a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
3. Divide the phyllo sheets into two equal sets and keep them covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

4. Assemble the Börek

1. Lay 2 sheets of phyllo in the pan, brushing lightly with olive oil.
2. Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the yogurt mixture over the top layer of phyllo and fold any overhanging edges into the pan.
3. Continue layering: 2 sheets brushed with oil, followed by 1 sheet with yogurt mixture, until the first set of phyllo is used up.
4. Spread the filling evenly over the top layer.
5. Repeat the same layering process with the second set of phyllo sheets, reserving ½ cup of the yogurt mixture for the top.

5. Bake the Börek

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the assembled börek into 12 equal squares before baking.
2. Pour the remaining ½ cup yogurt mixture evenly over the top.
3. Sprinkle with nigella seeds or sesame seeds.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

6. Cool and Serve

1. Let the Börek cool for 10 minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy warm as a main dish, appetizer, or savory snack!

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Tips for Perfect Börek

• Keep Phyllo Sheets Covered: Prevent unused sheets from drying by covering them with a damp towel during assembly.
• Customize the Filling: You can swap ground meat for mushrooms or extra cheese for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Crispiness: Brush each phyllo layer lightly with olive oil to enhance the crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare Börek in advance?
   Yes! You can assemble the Börek and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. How do I store leftover Börek?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster for best results.
3. Can I freeze Börek?
   Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Börek and bake it straight from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

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Enjoy this delicious homemade Börek, perfect for any occasion! Let us know how it turns out!