Burek

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

1. 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.

2. Make the Filling

   • 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.
   • Cheese Filling: Mix feta cheese, yogurt, and eggs in a bowl until well combined.
   • Spinach Filling: Combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, and salt in a bowl.

3. 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.

4. 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!