From Burek to Baklava: Has Balkan Cuisine Added New Flavors to Its Ottoman Roots?

ground meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: textured vegetable protein

TVP is a cost-effective, plant-based alternative.

phyllo pastry

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pastry

💰Cheaper: homemade dough

Homemade dough can save money and offer a healthier option.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and can be used for frying.

cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta

Cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Chop the onion and garlic and sauté them in olive oil until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Stir in chopped parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper; cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter.

Place another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush it again with butter.

Spoon a portion of the meat filling along one edge of the dough.

Roll the dough tightly around the filling to form a log shape.

Twist the log into a spiral and place it on a greased baking sheet.

Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling, arranging the spirals on the baking sheet.

Beat an egg with a splash of water and brush the tops of the bureks with this mixture.

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top if desired.

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 30-35 minutes.

Allow the bureks to cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens