Izmir Çıtır

Introduction and History

Izmir Çıtır is a delightful and crispy pastry originating from the vibrant city of Izmir, Turkey. Known for its rich culinary traditions, Izmir is situated on the western coast of Turkey. The region is celebrated for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which has been influenced by a variety of cultures throughout history, including Greek, Ottoman, and Levantine.

The word "çitir" translates to "crispy" in English, and the dish lives up to its name. This pastry is cherished for its flaky texture and savory filling, often complemented by spices that highlight the essence of Turkish cooking. Historically, pastries like Izmir Çıtır were consumed by traders and sailors stopping by the port city and quickly became a popular snack for its satisfying crunch and delectable taste.

Over generations, Izmir Çıtır has evolved, with various fillings and techniques making each family's recipe unique. Today, it remains a beloved snack, perfect for enjoying with Turkish tea or as part of a larger meal spread in Turkish cuisine.

Ingredients

The ingredients for making Izmir Çıtır are quite simple, yet they come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. We will need the following ingredients:

• Phyllo dough
• Feta cheese
• Spinach
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Egg
• Yogurt
• Sesame seeds

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

First, we need to create a delicious filling that will be at the heart of our Izmir Çıtır. Start by finely chopping onion and mincing the garlic. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, and sauté the onion and garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Add the spinach to the pan, and cook it until it wilts. Season this mixture with salt, black pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese and combine it with the cooled spinach mixture. Make sure the mixture is well integrated for a consistent flavorful filling.

Step 2: Preparing the Phyllo Dough

Using phyllo dough can be a delicate process as it dries out quickly. Start by carefully unrolling the sheets on a clean, dry surface. Melt a portion of butter and mix it with a bit of olive oil for brushing. You can use a pastry brush to maintain the light, flaky texture that phyllo dough is known for.

Place one sheet of phyllo dough on your work surface and brush lightly with the butter-oil mixture. Layer another sheet on top and repeat the brushing process, ensuring each layer is well coated.

Assembling the Izmir Çıtır

Step 3: Forming the Pastry

With your prepared filling and phyllo sheets, it's time to assemble the pastry. Place a generous spoonful of the filling near the edge of the phyllo dough. Fold the edges over the filling, and then roll it up tightly yet gently to form a compact cylindrical shape. Repeat this process until all the filling and phyllo dough are used.

Arrange your assembled çıtırs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Baking the Pastry

Now, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare a topping mix. Beat an egg with a tablespoon of yogurt for a glossy finish to your pastries. Brush this mixture over the rolled pastries and sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top for added crunch and flavor.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the çıtırs to bake for around 25 minutes. To ensure they’re baked to perfection, watch for a golden-brown color and check the crispness. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the baking time.

Serving and Enjoying Izmir Çıtır

Once the Izmir Çıtır is baked to a fragrant golden-done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Izmir Çıtır is perfect as a standalone snack or as part of a festive spread. Pair it with a side of herbed yogurt for dipping or as a complement to a fresh Mediterranean-style salad. Most traditionally, they are enjoyed with a cup of strong Turkish tea, which perfectly balances the crisp, buttery layers with the robust flavors of the filling.

Whether serving guests or enjoying a casual family meal, this pastry continues to bring people together, celebrating the centuries-old flavors of Izmir's vibrant culinary heritage.