Burek, a savory pastry beloved in the Balkans and the Middle East, is a flaky and delicious dish filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or spinach. This versatile recipe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and its golden crust and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

Dough (or use store-bought phyllo):

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (250 ml) water

1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil

Filling Options:

Meat Filling:

1 lb (500 g) ground beef or lamb

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil

1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

1 teaspoon (5 g) black pepper

Cheese Filling:

1 lb (500 g) feta cheese, crumbled

1 cup (250 ml) plain yogurt

2 eggs

Spinach Filling:

1 lb (500 g) spinach, chopped

1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough (if making from scratch): In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, salt, and vegetable oil. Knead until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling: For Meat Filling: Heat oil in a pan, sauté onions until soft, then add the ground meat. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. For Cheese Filling: Mix feta cheese, yogurt, and eggs in a bowl until well combined. For Spinach Filling: Combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, and salt in a bowl.

Assemble the Burek: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into thin sheets or use store-bought phyllo. Layer 2–3 sheets of dough in a greased baking pan, brushing each with oil. Spread a layer of your chosen filling. Repeat layers until the filling is used up, ending with dough on top.

Bake: Brush the top layer with oil or melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serving: Cut the burek into slices or squares and serve warm. Pair it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This recipe serves 6–8 people.

Burek is a timeless dish that brings people together. Its flaky crust and flavorful fillings make it a favorite in many households. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of tradition!