Bureek Tajin

Recipe

Bureek Tajin

Savory Algerian Delight: Bureek Tajin

Bureek Tajin is a traditional Algerian dish that combines layers of flaky pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices. This dish is a staple in Algerian cuisine and is loved for its rich taste and satisfying texture.

Jan Dec

30 minutes

25 minutes

55 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Mediterranean diet, Low-carb diet, High-protein diet, Dairy-free diet, Gluten-free diet (if using gluten-free phyllo pastry)

Wheat (if using regular phyllo pastry)

Vegetarian diet, Vegan diet, Paleo diet, Keto diet, Nut-free diet

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2.
    In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  3. 3.
    Add the ground lamb or beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Break up any clumps with a wooden spoon.
  4. 4.
    Stir in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
  5. 5.
    Add the diced bell pepper, grated carrot, and frozen peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
  6. 6.
    Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
  7. 7.
    Take one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it lightly with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have 5 layers.
  8. 8.
    Spoon a portion of the filling onto the phyllo pastry, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the edges over the filling and roll the pastry into a log shape.
  9. 9.
    Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo pastry and filling.
  10. 10.
    Place the bureeks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil.
  11. 11.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bureeks are golden and crispy.
  12. 12.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Phyllo pastry — Handle the phyllo pastry gently to prevent it from tearing. Keep it covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.

Tips & Tricks

  • To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the bureeks before baking.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the filling mixture.
  • Serve the bureeks with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.
  • Leftover bureeks can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
  • Experiment with different fillings by adding ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or spinach to create your own variations.

Serving advice

Serve the Bureek Tajin hot as a main course. Accompany it with a side of yogurt sauce and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Bureek Tajin on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or mint. The golden-brown pastry and colorful filling will make for an appetizing presentation.