Get ready to experience a taste sensation with Balkan Burek, a delectable phyllo pastry that will have you reaching for seconds. Layers of delicate dough embrace a savory filling, making this a treat worth savoring.

Prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible allure of Balkan Burek. With its flaky layers of golden phyllo dough and a delectable filling, this pastry is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Balkans. The dough, carefully layered and brushed with butter, encases a harmonious blend of ground meat and cheese, creating a textural and flavorful delight. Baked to perfection, Balkan Burek is a testament to the artistry of the region’s traditional cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) phyllo dough sheets
• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Butter or oil, for brushing

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the meat filling cool slightly. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
4. Carefully unroll the phyllo dough sheets and cover them with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
5. Take one sheet of phyllo dough and place it in the greased baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet with melted butter or oil.
6. Repeat the process, layering the sheets of phyllo dough and brushing each layer with butter or oil, until half of the sheets are used.
7. Spread the meat and cheese filling evenly over the phyllo dough layers.
8. Continue layering the remaining sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter or oil, until all the sheets are used.
9. Tuck the overhanging edges of the bottom sheets over the top to create a sealed crust.
10. Brush the top layer with butter or oil, then use a sharp knife to score the top into diamond or rectangular shapes.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the burek is golden brown and crispy.
12. Allow the burek to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy the irresistible combination of flaky phyllo pastry and savory filling.

Last bite of Balkan Burek

As you take your last bite of Balkan Burek, relish in the contrasting textures and the explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. The crispness of the phyllo dough, the savory filling, and the aroma of butter meld together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Share this exquisite pastry with friends and family, and let the joy of sharing food and culture bring you closer together.

Follow HamiCook on Social Media so you don’t miss any new recipe..