Turkish Spiral Borek Pastry Recipe

A delicious and traditional Turkish pastry, perfect for any occasion.

Turkish Spiral Börek, known as Kol Böreği in Turkish, is a delightful and traditional pastry dish that has been an integral part of Turkish culinary culture for centuries. Renowned for its flaky texture and delicious fillings, this pastry is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family breakfast or a formal gathering. The name 'Börek' originates from the Turkish word 'bur,' which means to twist or to wrap, aptly describing the creation process of this unique, spiral-shaped pastry.

Not only is this pastry loved in Turkey, but its popularity extends across different regions, offering variations that cater to diverse palates. From the classic spinach and feta filling to more contemporary meat or cheese options, Spiral Börek provides a versatile base for a range of flavors. This detailed recipe will guide you through the intricate steps of crafting your own authentic Turkish Spiral Börek at home, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and savory goodness. Let's embark on this culinary journey and bring a piece of Turkish tradition to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 250g feta cheese, crumbled
• 200g fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup milk

Nutrition

Calories: ~320 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of all-purpose flour and 1 tsp of salt. Gradually add 1 cup of warm water while mixing continuously until the dough begins to come together. Add 3 tbsp of olive oil and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, around 10 minutes. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Add 200g of fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. Once cooled, combine the spinach mixture with 250g of crumbled feta cheese in a bowl.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the rested dough into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin rectangular sheet, approximately 2mm thick.
4. Assemble the Börek: Brush each dough sheet with melted butter. Evenly distribute the spinach and feta filling across each sheet of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one end, roll the dough sheets into long cylinders. Coil each cylinder into a spiral shape and place them onto a greased baking tray.
5. Apply the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix together 1 beaten egg and 1/4 cup of milk. Brush this mixture over the tops of the spirals for a golden finish once baked.
6. Bake the Börek: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the börek is golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the börek to cool for a few minutes on the baking tray before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, cut into wedges.

Enjoy your homemade Turkish Spiral Börek with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad. This delicious pastry is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For a crispy texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes. Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as minced meat, potatoes, or various cheeses to make your börek unique. Happy cooking!