Borek (also spelled börek) is a savory pastry that is popular in many countries in the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Eastern Europe. It can be made with various fillings, such as spinach and feta cheese, ground beef or lamb, or potato and onion. Here is a recipe for a spinach and feta borek:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the filling:
- 1 lb. fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the water and vegetable oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the feta cheese, parsley, green onions, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked spinach and mix well.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Cut the dough into long strips, about 3 inches wide.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach-feta mixture onto one end of each strip. Roll up the dough tightly, and then coil the roll into a spiral shape.
- Place the boreks into the prepared baking dish, spiral-side up.
- Bake the boreks in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Borek can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, depending on its size and the occasion. It is best eaten warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
