Are you looking for a delicious and authentic Turkish cheese borek recipe? Look no further! Borek, also known as burek or borek, is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is loved for its flaky pastry and savory cheese filling. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a traditional Turkish cheese borek that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history and cultural significance of Turkish cheese borek. Borek has been a staple in Turkish cuisine for centuries, with variations found across different regions. The dish is often prepared for special occasions and is a favorite among families and friends. The combination of flaky pastry and rich cheese filling makes it a perfect dish for any meal, from breakfast to a hearty dinner.
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Turkish cheese borek:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually 18-20 sheets)
– 1 lb (450g) of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup (240ml) of ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup (120ml) of sour cream
– 1/4 cup (60ml) of chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup (60ml) of chopped dill
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil
Now, let’s move on to the instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, chopped parsley, dill, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Place a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, flat surface. Brush it lightly with olive oil.
4. Place another sheet of phyllo dough on top of the first one, and brush it with olive oil as well. Repeat this process until you have a stack of 6-7 sheets of phyllo dough.
5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo dough stack, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Starting from one of the shorter sides, roll the phyllo dough stack tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Once you reach the end, seal the roll with a little bit of olive oil.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo dough and cheese mixture to make two borek rolls.
8. Place the borek rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
9. Brush the top of the borek rolls with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Once done, remove the borek rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing into pieces.
11. Serve warm, and enjoy your homemade Turkish cheese borek with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.
By following this Turkish cheese borek recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Turkish cuisine. The flaky pastry and creamy cheese filling are sure to impress your family and friends, and you’ll have a delightful meal to enjoy. Happy cooking!
