Ankara Börek
The Ankara Börek is a savory pastry that originates from Turkey, a country renowned for its rich culinary heritage. Börek, in general, is a family of pastries made with thin layers of pastry filled with a variety of fillings. It is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine and has been savored since the time of the Ottoman Empire. The Ankara variation often stands out due to its distinct use of feta cheese and spinach, bringing together a blend of flavors that is both hearty and aromatic.
Ingredients
- Phyllo pastry - 500g
- Feta cheese - 200g
- Spinach - 300g
- Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
- Olive oil - 4 tablespoons
- Egg - 1, beaten
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the spinach, and cook until wilted. Remove the mixture from heat. Crumble the feta cheese into the spinach mixture, and season with salt and black pepper as desired.
Step 2: Layer the Börek
To assemble, lay a sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface. Brush it lightly with some olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat until you have 5-6 sheets layered. Spread a portion of the filling along one edge of the pastry, then roll it up tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining pastry and filling.
Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the börek rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to ensure a golden finish. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For precise baking time, you can use a cooking timer to ensure perfect results.
Enjoying Your Ankara Börek
Ankara Börek can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. Traditionally served as part of a Turkish breakfast spread, it pairs excellently with a glass of Turkish tea. If you're serving it for a meal, consider adding a fresh salad on the side to complement its savory richness. It's also perfect as a snack or a light meal on its own. Each bite offers layers of crisp pastry with the savory, creamy filling bursting with flavor.