Balkan Burek with Spinach and Feta

Ingredients

• 10 sheets of phyllo dough 10 sheets of phyllo dough
• 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 22g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Brush a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. 4.
   Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet with olive oil.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process with four more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with olive oil.
6. 6.
   Spread half of the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough.
7. 7.
   Layer five more sheets of phyllo dough on top of the spinach and feta mixture, brushing each layer with olive oil.
8. 8.
   Spread the remaining spinach and feta mixture over the second layer of phyllo dough.
9. 9.
   Layer the last five sheets of phyllo dough on top, brushing each layer with olive oil.
10. 10.
    Fold the overhanging edges of the phyllo dough towards the center, creating a neat and sealed top.
11. 11.
    Brush the top of the Burek with olive oil.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the Burek is golden brown and crispy.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
14. 14.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Phyllo dough — Make sure to keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working with it to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the Burek before baking.
• If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute half of the feta cheese with ricotta cheese.
• Leftover Burek can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Serving advice

Balkan Burek with Spinach and Feta is best served warm. It can be enjoyed as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or as a delightful appetizer. Cut it into individual portions and serve it on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Presentation advice

When serving Balkan Burek, you can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill to add a pop of color. Serve it on a rustic wooden board or a decorative plate to enhance its visual appeal.