Ankara Böreği
History of Ankara Böreği
Ankara Böreği is a traditional Turkish pastry, originating from the bustling city of Ankara, the capital of Turkey. Börek, in its various forms, is an integral part of Turkish cuisine, and its origins can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. This dish is a beloved staple, often made for special occasions and family gatherings. The name "Börek" refers to a family of pastries made of thin layers of dough, known as phyllo or yufka, filled with ingredients ranging from cheeses and meats to vegetables.
The most iconic feature of Ankara Böreği is its filling, traditionally spicy minced meat combined with onions and parsley, wrapped in a spiral shape and baked to perfection. This hearty dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.
Ingredients for Ankara Böreği
- Yufka (or phyllo dough) - 500g
- Minced beef - 300g
- Onion, finely chopped - 1 large
- Parsley, chopped - a small bunch
- Red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
- Egg - 1 (for egg wash)
- Butter, melted - 100g
- Sesame seeds and nigella seeds for garnish, optional
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the filling
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent. Add the minced beef to the pan, stirring to break up the meat. Cook until the beef is browned. Season the meat with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the chopped parsley. Set aside to cool.
2. Assemble the Börek
Unroll the yufka sheets gently. Place one sheet on a clean surface, and brush it with the melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush it again. Spread a portion of the meat filling evenly across the edge of the yufka. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the edge with filling. Form the log into a spiral and place it on a greased baking tray. Repeat for remaining yufka and filling.
3. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Lightly beat the egg and brush it over the top of the Ankara Böreği spirals. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and nigella seeds if using. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the Börek is golden brown and crispy. Use a cooking timer to ensure perfect results.
Enjoying Ankara Böreği
Allow the Börek to cool slightly before serving. This delightful pastry can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad, balancing the richness of the filling. Serve it as an appetizer at parties, a lunch paired with çay (Turkish tea), or even as a mouthwatering snack. The combination of spicy meat and the buttery layers of yufka make Ankara Böreği an unforgettable culinary experience.