Börek is a flaky pastry that is popular in Turkey and the Balkans. It is made with phyllo dough, which is a thin, unleavened dough that is brushed with butter and rolled up with a variety of fillings. This recipe for sweet börek is filled with a mixture of ground walnuts, pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. The börek is baked until golden brown and then drizzled with honey.
Börek is a dish with a long and storied history. It is believed to have originated in Central Asia, where it was made with a variety of fillings, including meat, vegetables, and cheese. Börek was brought to Turkey by the Ottoman Turks, who ruled over the region for centuries. Over time, börek became a popular dish in Turkey and the Balkans, and it is now considered to be a national dish in both countries.
There are many different variations of börek, but the most common type is made with phyllo dough. Phyllo dough is a thin, unleavened dough that is made from flour, water, and salt. It is brushed with butter and rolled up with a variety of fillings. Börek can be baked or fried, and it is often served with yogurt or ayran, a Turkish yogurt drink.
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 12
Ingredients
1 package phyllo dough (1 pound)
1 cup melted unsalted butter
1/2 cup ground walnuts or almonds
1/2 cup ground pistachios
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 cup honey
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a lightly floured surface, unfold the phyllo dough and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
Brush each piece of phyllo dough with melted butter.
In a medium bowl, combine the walnuts, pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Divide the nut mixture evenly among the phyllo dough pieces.
Roll up each piece of phyllo dough into a tight roll.
Place the rolls in a 9-inch baking dish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Drizzle the honey over the börek and serve warm.
Why It Works
The combination of walnuts, pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom creates a sweet and flavorful filling.
The phyllo dough is thin and crispy, providing a perfect contrast to the soft filling.
The honey drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and richness.