Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs

Börek is a traditional Turkish pastry that is both savory and satisfying, filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or minced meat, all wrapped in thin, flaky phyllo dough. Cheese and herb börek is one of the most popular variations, with a rich, creamy filling that combines the tang of cheese and the freshness of herbs, all encased in a crispy, golden crust. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs is sure to delight.

In this post, we’ll show you how to make a golden, crispy börek that’s filled with a delicious mixture of cheese and fresh herbs. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy this classic Turkish dish at home.

What is Börek?

Börek is a pastry that originates from the Ottoman Empire and is popular throughout Turkey and the surrounding regions. The dish is traditionally made with yufka (a kind of thin dough), but phyllo dough is commonly used in modern versions. The filling can vary from cheese, spinach, or ground meat to potatoes or a combination of ingredients. The cheese and herb börek is especially favored for its simplicity and delicious flavor.

The golden, crispy exterior is contrasted by a rich, flavorful filling, and it’s often enjoyed with a glass of ayran (yogurt drink) or tea.

Ingredients for Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious, golden börek:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups crumbled feta cheese (or a mix of feta and ricotta for extra creaminess)

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for a meltier filling)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or use thyme or oregano for a different flavor)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Salt, to taste (feta is already salty, so adjust accordingly)

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)

For the Dough:

• 1 pack of phyllo dough (about 12 sheets)

• 1/2 cup melted butter (or olive oil, if preferred)

• 1 egg, for brushing on top (optional, for a golden finish)

How to Make Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, chopped dill, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture to help bind everything together. Stir until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush a baking dish (9×13 inch works well) with some of the melted butter or olive oil. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing it lightly with butter or oil.
3. Continue layering 5-6 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter or olive oil. The more layers, the crispier and flakier the börek will be.

Step 3: Add the Filling

1. Spread the prepared cheese and herb filling evenly over the layered phyllo dough.
2. After the filling is spread, continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go. Use about 6-7 more sheets, depending on the size of your dish.

Step 4: Shape and Finish

1. Once all the layers are added, tuck in any overhanging phyllo dough around the edges of the dish.
2. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the börek into squares or diamond shapes. This helps with easy slicing once it’s baked.
3. Brush the top with a bit of the beaten egg to give the börek a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Börek

1. Place the börek in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. The top should be a beautiful, deep golden color.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into the scored pieces.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs warm, either as an appetizer or a main dish. It pairs perfectly with a cup of Turkish tea or a refreshing yogurt drink like ayran.

Tips for Perfecting Your Börek

• Don’t overstuff: It’s tempting to add a lot of filling, but it’s important not to overstuff the börek, as it can cause the layers to tear.

• Work quickly with phyllo dough: Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so be sure to cover it with a damp towel when you’re not using it.

• Customize the filling: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or mint for a twist on the classic filling.

• Freeze for later: You can prepare the börek ahead of time and freeze it unbaked. When ready to cook, just bake it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why You’ll Love Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs

Golden Turkish Börek with Cheese & Herbs is the perfect combination of crispy, flaky phyllo dough and a creamy, flavorful filling. The addition of fresh herbs makes this dish aromatic and fresh, while the melted cheeses provide a rich and satisfying bite. Whether you’re serving it at a special dinner, a casual gathering, or just enjoying it as a light lunch, this börek is always a crowd-pleaser.

With its layers of crispy dough and savory filling, this Turkish pastry is one you’ll want to make again and again. It’s the perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and comfort in every bite.