RAMADAN SPECIAL
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pastry recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Look no further than Cheese Borek, a traditional Turkish pastry filled with melted cheese and wrapped in flaky phyllo dough.
Servings: 8-10 boreks
Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Phyllo Dough:
– 1 package (1 pound/450g) phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section of most supermarkets)
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheese Filling:
– 1 cup (115g) crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup (55g) grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh dill
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Thaw the phyllo dough: Remove the phyllo dough from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature.
2. Prepare the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. Mix well to combine.
3. Assemble the boreks: Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with some of the melted butter. Repeat this process until you have 5 layers of phyllo dough.
4. Add the cheese filling: Place a tablespoon or two of the cheese filling in the center of the phyllo dough.
5. Fold and seal the borek: Fold the phyllo dough over the cheese filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press the edges together to seal the borek.
6. Brush with egg wash: Brush the tops of the boreks with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake the boreks: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boreks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips and Variations:
– Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
– Add some chopped ham or spinach to the cheese filling for added flavor.
– Use a pastry brush to apply the melted butter and egg wash for a more even coating.
– Serve the boreks warm or at room temperature, perfect for a snack or light meal.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
– Calories: 250-300
– Fat: 12-15g
– Saturated Fat: 8-10g
– Cholesterol: 20-25mg
– Sodium: 250-300mg
– Carbohydrates: 20-25g
– Fiber: 2-3g
– Sugar: 5-6g
– Protein: 10-12g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cheese Borek!
Nutrition Chart (per serving)
Macronutrients
– Calories: 270-320
– Protein: 12-15g
– Fat: 15-18g
– Saturated Fat: 10-12g
– Carbohydrates: 25-30g
– Fiber: 2-3g
– Sugar: 5-6g
– Sodium: 300-350mg
Vitamins and Minerals
– Vitamin A: 10-15% of the DV
– Vitamin C: 2-3% of the DV
– Calcium: 20-25% of the DV
– Iron: 10-15% of the DV
– Potassium: 15-20% of the DV
Micronutrients
– Cholesterol: 25-30mg
– Trans Fat: 0.5-1g
Allergen Information
– Contains: Gluten (in the phyllo dough), Dairy (in the cheese filling)
– May contain: Eggs, Tree Nuts (depending on specific ingredients used)
Please note that this nutrition chart is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Visual Description
Cheese Borek is a delicious Turkish pastry filled with melted cheese and wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. The borek is typically triangular or square in shape, with a golden brown crust and a crispy, flaky texture. The cheese filling is visible through the layers of phyllo dough, adding a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
Texture
The texture of Cheese Borek is crispy and flaky on the outside, thanks to the phyllo dough, while the inside is soft and creamy, thanks to the melted cheese. The phyllo dough is layered to create a delicate, crispy crust that shatters in your mouth when you take a bite.
Color
The color of Cheese Borek is golden brown, thanks to the phyllo dough and the melted cheese. The cheese filling adds a creamy white color to the dish, while the phyllo dough provides a golden brown crust.
Overall Appearance
Cheese Borek is a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for serving at parties or special occasions. The triangular or square shape of the borek adds a touch of elegance to the dish, while the golden brown crust and melted cheese filling make it irresistible.
Aroma
The aroma of Cheese Borek is incredible, with a heady blend of melted cheese, flaky phyllo dough, and savory spices. The scent of cheese and phyllo dough wafts up from the dish, tantalizing the taste buds and building anticipation.
Flavor
The flavor of Cheese Borek is rich and savory, with a deep, satisfying flavor that’s both comforting and exotic. The melted cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish, while the phyllo dough provides a crispy, flaky texture that complements the cheese perfectly.
