Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek is a delightful Turkish Borek recipe that combines flaky phyllo pastry with a savory filling of spinach and feta cheese. This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re serving it as a warm breakfast, a brunch item, or an appetizer at gatherings. Its unique flavor profile and crispy texture make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach and feta creates a rich taste that is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot from the oven or at room temperature—this borek is perfect for any time of day.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered phyllo dough offers a beautiful texture that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your borek, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while helping the bottom layer crisp up nicely.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess, allowing you to whisk together your filling smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any vegetable oil such as avocado oil)
• 1 medium-size onion (peeled and chopped)
• 16 oz. baby spinach leaves (washed and dried)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz. crumbled feta cheese

For the Assembly

• 3 tablespoon olive oil (or any vegetable oil such as avocado oil)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons plain whole-milk yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package of Phyllo Dough (thawed overnight in the fridge)
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• ½ teaspoon Nigella seeds (optional)

How to Make Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Filling

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Add the spinach, salt, and pepper. Cook while tossing every few minutes with kitchen tongs until the spinach loses most of its volume (about 5 minutes). Stir well and turn off the heat. Allow it to cool for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 3: Make the Yogurt Milk Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, milk, egg, yogurt, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Börek

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay sheets of phyllo dough onto the parchment paper in a single layer until fully covered. It’s okay if some edges overhang.

Step 5: Layering Phyllo Dough

Place another layer of phyllo on top. Pour 3-4 tablespoons of the milk mixture over this layer; brush evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Continue Layering

Stack two more layers of phyllo on top. Brush with milk mixture again. Then add one final layer of phyllo without brushing it again.

Step 7: Add Filling

Spread the cooled spinach mixture evenly over the top layer of phyllo sheets.

Step 8: Cover Filling

Add two more layers of phyllo over the filling completely. Brush another 3-4 teaspoons of milk mixture on top. Place two additional layers on top, brushing with milk mixture again. You should have nine layers total.

Step 9: Final Layers

Fold any overhanging sheets towards the center and brush them with milk mixture as well. The borek should now look moist and tightly packed.

Step 10: Slice Before Baking

Using a sharp knife, pre-slice your borek into twelve equal pieces for easy serving later.

Step 11: Egg Yolk Glaze

In a bowl, mix egg yolks together. Brush each slice generously with egg yolk glaze. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and nigella seeds if using.

Step 12: Bake

Place in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 13: Cool & Serve

Allow to cool slightly before slicing further if needed. Serve warm for best flavor!

How to Serve Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

Serving Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek is an enjoyable experience that can cater to various occasions. This flaky pastry pairs wonderfully with different accompaniments to enhance its flavor and texture.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich filling of the borek.

Accompanied by Yogurt Sauce

• A cool yogurt sauce made with garlic and herbs adds a refreshing contrast to the warm borek.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Serve warm alongside eggs, fresh fruit, or pastries for a delightful breakfast spread.

With Olive Oil Drizzle

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the borek and adds richness.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into small squares and serve as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

Perfecting your Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and feta cheese make a significant difference in flavor. Avoid wilted greens for the best taste.
• Thaw Phyllo Dough Properly: Thaw phyllo dough in the fridge overnight to prevent it from drying out. This keeps it manageable while assembling.
• Layer Generously: Don’t skimp on layers of phyllo. The more layers, the flakier your borek will be.
• Brush with Care: Use enough milk mixture between layers for moisture but avoid soaking them. This ensures crispiness.
• Pre-slice Before Baking: Pre-slicing helps the heat penetrate evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked pieces that are easy to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

Pairing your Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool Greek yogurt dip made with cucumber and garlic enhances flavors while adding creaminess.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers provide a colorful side that balances the dish.
3. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip is perfect for scooping alongside slices of borek, adding protein and flavor.
4. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad mixed with bulgur offers a bright contrast to the savory borek.
5. Olive Tapenade: This spread made from olives adds a salty punch that pairs well with the mildness of feta cheese.
6. Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with sliced cucumbers dressed in lemon juice offers freshness that complements rich flavors.
7. Chickpea Soup: A light soup can round out the meal, making it satisfying without being too heavy.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs can add another layer of texture and taste to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cooling step – It’s crucial to let the spinach filling cool before assembling. If you skip this step, you risk soggy phyllo dough.
• Not layering enough phyllo sheets – Ensure you use enough layers of phyllo to create a flaky texture. Skimping on layers leads to a dense and chewy borek.
• Overfilling the borek – While it’s tempting to add extra filling, too much can cause the dough to tear and make it difficult to bake evenly. Stick to the recommended amount.
• Neglecting to brush with oil or egg – Brushing layers with oil or egg is vital for achieving a golden crust. Missing this step can result in an uninspired look and texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can hinder browning. Always preheat your oven and monitor the baking process for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek – Turkish Borek Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; be cautious as it may become soggy.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm each side for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek:

What is Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?

Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek is a traditional Turkish pastry made from thin layers of phyllo dough filled with spinach and crumbled feta cheese, baked until golden brown.

Can I use different cheeses in the borek?

Yes! While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I make my Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, ensure you brush each layer of phyllo with olive oil or melted butter before baking.

Can I freeze leftover Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

What dishes pair well with Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?

This delicious borek pairs wonderfully with yogurt sauce or a fresh salad, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Final Thoughts

Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek is not only versatile but also packed with flavor. This recipe allows for customization; feel free to add herbs or other vegetables into the filling. Whether served as an appetizer or part of brunch, it’s sure to impress your guests. Give this recipe a try today!