Description
Borek is a classic Turkish dish that combines the flakiness of phyllo pastry with a savory filling of halloumi, feta, and fresh parsley. These Turkish Börek cigars are the perfect appetizer or snack, offering a satisfying crunch and creamy center.
Ingredients
10 sheets phyllo pastry (or traditional yufka), halved
1 bunch parsley, divided into sprigs or chopped
1 quart sunflower or mild vegetable oil (plus more for sealing and brushing)
8 ounces halloumi, cut into 20 strips
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare the Phyllo: Remove the phyllo pastry from the package and cover it with a clean, damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
- Set Up the Pastry: Place one sheet of phyllo in front of you with the short side facing you.
- Add Parsley: Place a few sprigs or a small heap of chopped parsley near the edge of the phyllo closest to you.
- Add Cheese: Brush the folded phyllo lightly with oil. Add one strip of halloumi and about 1 tablespoon of crumbled feta next to the folded edge.
- Roll the Borek: Fold the side edges of the phyllo about ½ inch inward, then roll the sheet tightly into a cigar shape. Seal the end with a bit of oil to prevent it from unraveling.
- Repeat: Continue rolling the remaining phyllo sheets and filling with parsley, halloumi, and feta, keeping unused phyllo covered with the damp towel to prevent drying.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the sunflower or vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat to 350°F (180°C).
- Fry the Börek: Fry the cigars in batches, turning them as needed for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to ensure even frying.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the Börek cigars from the oil and drain on paper towels or a brown paper bag. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Try using ricotta, mozzarella, or kasseri for a unique flavor variation.
Add other herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.
For a vegan version, swap the halloumi and feta for plant-based cheese options and use olive oil for frying.
To bake instead of frying, brush the rolled Börek with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cigar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
