As the sun begins to rise and fills my kitchen with a warm glow, the tantalizing scent of freshly baked börek wafts through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This delightful Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek is a treasure from Turkish cuisine that has become a staple in my home. With crispy layers of phyllo dough encasing a rich filling of creamy feta and tender spinach, it’s hard to resist just one slice—let alone the whole pan!
Perfect for a cozy brunch with friends or as a savory side at dinner, this recipe resonates with both comfort and culinary adventure. The beauty lies not just in its flavor but also in its versatility; whether you’re a staunch vegetarian or looking to incorporate meat into your meal, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, so you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Join me as we dive into the world of flaky, golden goodness and craft a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek a must-try?
Crispy Delight: The flaky layers of phyllo dough create a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
Savory Fillings: Rich feta and nutritious spinach come together for a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a side; this börek fits any occasion with ease.
Easy Prep: With simple, accessible ingredients, you can whip this dish up without fancy techniques or a lot of fuss.
Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for a stress-free meal, just bake when ready to serve. Dive into this delicious recipe and impress your guests!
Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek Ingredients
For the Filling
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with any neutral vegetable oil.
• Onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed; use shallots for a milder taste.
• Baby Spinach Leaves – The main filling component that adds vibrant color and nutrition; adjust quantity based on preference.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors; use sea salt as an alternative.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and seasoning; consider white pepper for a milder flavor.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy base for the filling; can substitute with ricotta for a milder flavor.
For the Yogurt Mixture
• Whole Milk – Contributes to the creamy yogurt mixture; use any dairy-free milk if lactose-free.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together in the yogurt mixture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Plain Whole-Milk Yogurt – Adds creaminess and a slight tang; use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
For the Topping
• Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and flavor; omit for a nut-free option.
• Nigella Seeds (optional) – Offers a unique flavor that enhances the final dish; omit or substitute with poppy seeds.
Whip up this delightful Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek and get ready to impress your guests with its savory layers of flavor!
How to Make Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek
-
Prepare the Filling: Sauté chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until transparent, about 4-5 minutes. Add baby spinach, kosher salt, and black pepper; cook until the spinach is wilted, approximately 5 minutes. Once done, let the filling cool for 15 minutes.
-
Make Milk-Yogurt Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, whole milk, large egg, plain yogurt, kosher salt, and black pepper until everything is well-combined and creamy.
-
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a 12×17 baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends beyond the edges for easy removal. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, brushing each with olive oil and allowing some to overhang.
-
Layer and Assemble: Add a layer of the milk-yogurt mixture between the phyllo dough sheets. Spoon the spinach and feta filling on top, spreading it evenly. Finish the assembly by layering more phyllo sheets, brushing each with the milk mixture to keep it moist.
-
Final Preparations: Fold in the overhanging phyllo, enclosing the filling. Pre-slice the börek into 12 squares for easy serving. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame and nigella seeds for added crunch.
-
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the börek for 30-35 minutes until it turns golden brown and crisp. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Optional: Pair with a dollop of yogurt or a side salad to enhance flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?
Enhance your experience with delightful pairings that complement your savory creation perfectly.
-
Turkish Coffee: This robust coffee offers a rich, robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of börek.
-
Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumber, and olives offers a crisp and tangy contrast to the rich filling.
-
Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy and cool, this yogurt-based dip enhances the flavors while providing a refreshing balance.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies introduce a subtle sweetness, adding depth and color to your meal.
-
Mint Tea: This fragrant beverage provides a soothing end to your meal and enhances the Turkish dining experience.
-
Couscous Salad: Light, fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables adds a delightful texture and freshness that complements the rich börek.
-
Baklava: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this honey-soaked pastry; a perfect dessert following the savory layers of börek.
-
Pomegranate Juice: Bright and tangy, it cleanses the palate and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Consider these delightful pairings for a complete and memorable meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (sautéed spinach and onions) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the entire börek and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain the quality, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the phyllo from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade dish ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness.
Freezer: Wrap the assembled but unbaked börek tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked börek in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the crust nice and flaky while warming the filling.
Expert Tips for Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek
- Chill Before Baking: Let the assembled börek rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to enhance the texture and flavors.
- Moisture Control: Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach filling to prevent a soggy börek; straining the spinach is highly recommended.
- Gentle Handling: Be cautious with phyllo dough as it tears easily; if you encounter minor tears, simply patch them up with an additional piece of dough.
- Layering Technique: Brush each layer of phyllo with olive oil or the milk-yogurt mixture for that addictive golden crispiness in your Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to adjust the filling; adding herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek Variations
Customize your Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these delightful variations!
- Kale Twist: Substitute spinach with kale for a heartier, nutrient-packed filling. Just sauté it a bit longer to soften.
- Meat Lover’s: Introduce ground lamb or beef into the filling for a savory twist that adds depth and flavor, perfect for meat enthusiasts.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint to the filling for enhanced aroma and freshness that sings with every bite.
- Cheese Blend: Mix in some ricotta along with feta for a richer, creamier filling that’s simply irresistible and super indulgent.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the filling to give your börek a delightful heat that wakes up the palate.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling, offering an exquisite crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy textures.
- Vegan Delight: Use a flax egg and dairy-free yogurt for a completely plant-based version of this dish that everyone can enjoy without compromise.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Mix in roasted bell peppers or mushrooms for an earthy twist. This not only alters the flavor but also showcases your creativity in the kitchen.
Embrace the art of cooking and let your imagination run wild with these variations!
Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for my börek?
I recommend using fresh baby spinach for its tender texture and vibrant color. If you can’t find baby spinach, you can also use regular spinach; just be sure to remove the thick stems and chop the leaves into smaller pieces.
How do I store leftovers of Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?
Absolutely! Leftover börek can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to help regain that lovely crispiness.
Can I freeze Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the assembled but unbaked börek tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time.
Why is my filling too watery?
To prevent a soggy börek, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking. You can strain it in a fine mesh sieve or simply wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze until dry. This step is crucial for maintaining the crispness of the final dish!
Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
Of course! While feta adds a delightful tang, you can substitute it with ricotta for a milder taste or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Unfortunately, traditional phyllo dough contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free phyllo or a gluten-free dough option if you’re making this börek for someone with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Spinach and Feta Cheese Börek Recipe to Impress Friends
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until transparent, about 4-5 minutes. Add baby spinach, kosher salt, and black pepper; cook until the spinach is wilted, approximately 5 minutes. Once done, let the filling cool for 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, whole milk, large egg, plain yogurt, kosher salt, and black pepper until everything is well-combined and creamy.
- Line a 12x17 baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends beyond the edges for easy removal. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, brushing each with olive oil and allowing some to overhang.
- Add a layer of the milk-yogurt mixture between the phyllo dough sheets. Spoon the spinach and feta filling on top, spreading it evenly. Finish the assembly by layering more phyllo sheets, brushing each with the milk mixture to keep it moist.
- Fold in the overhanging phyllo, enclosing the filling. Pre-slice the börek into 12 squares for easy serving. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame and nigella seeds for added crunch.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the börek for 30-35 minutes until it turns golden brown and crisp. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.