Çiğ Börek with a Twist

Recipe

Çiğ Börek with a Twist

Savory Turkish Delight: Çiğ Börek Reinvented

Çiğ börek is a traditional Turkish dish that is loved for its crispy exterior and flavorful filling. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic dish, adding a modern touch to the traditional flavors.

Jan Dec

30 minutes

20-25 minutes

55-60 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Vegetarian, Mediterranean, Low-carb, Nut-free, Soy-free

Wheat (gluten), Dairy (feta cheese)

Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Paleo, Keto

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
  • Fat: 12g (7g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 32g (1g sugar)
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. 2.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while kneading until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  3. 3.
    In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, dill, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
  4. 4.
    Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin sheet.
  5. 5.
    Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture onto one half of the dough sheet. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle shape. Press the edges firmly to seal the börek.
  6. 6.
    Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
  7. 7.
    Place the börek triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil.
  8. 8.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the börek is golden and crispy.
  9. 9.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves and remove any tough stems before chopping.
  • Feta cheese — Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak the feta cheese in water for 30 minutes before crumbling it.

Tips & Tricks

  • To add a touch of sweetness, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the börek before baking.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach and cheese mixture.
  • Serve the börek with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Leftover börek can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Çiğ Börek warm as an appetizer or snack. It pairs well with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Çiğ Börek triangles on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. Serve with a side of yogurt for dipping.