Most Popular Balkan Foods: How To Make Burek (Recipe Guide)

Our full guide on How To Make Burek one of the most popular foods in the Balkans.

Burek, also known as Börek, is a delicious savory pastry originating from the Balkans and the Middle East. It is typically made with thin layers of dough filled with a variety of fillings such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. Here’s a detailed recipe guide along with tips and calorie information.

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How to Make Burek

Burek Recipe Ingredients

For the Dough (if making from scratch):

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for brushing)
For the Cheese Filling:

2 cups crumbled feta cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meat Filling (optional):

1 pound ground beef or lamb
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
For Assembly:

1 package phyllo dough (if not making dough from scratch)
1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Step By Step How to Make Burek

Prepare the Dough (if making from scratch)

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces, shape them into balls, and coat with a bit of oil. Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Meat Filling (if using)

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened.
Add the ground meat, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin (if using). Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and let it cool slightly.

Roll Out the Dough

If using homemade dough, roll each ball out on a floured surface into a very thin, large circle (as thin as you can without tearing). Alternatively, use pre-made phyllo dough. Brush each layer of dough with melted butter or olive oil.

Assemble the Burek

If using phyllo dough, layer 3-4 sheets of dough, brushing each layer with butter or oil. Spread the filling of your choice (cheese or meat) evenly over the dough. Roll the dough into a log or fold it into a spiral shape. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Bake the Burek

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled burek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with an egg wash (beaten egg) and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Let the burek cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips To Make Burek

If making dough from scratch, aim for paper-thin layers. It helps to stretch the dough with your hands gently after rolling.

Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out. Experiment with different fillings such as spinach and feta, potato, or mixed vegetables.

Burek can be frozen before baking. Assemble and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How Many Calories Have Burek

Cheese Burek:

Feta Cheese (2 cups): 800 calories
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): 300 calories
Egg (1): 70 calories
Phyllo Dough (1 package): 1,000 calories
Butter (1/2 cup): 800 calories
Total Calories per Serving: Approximately 371 calories

Meat Burek:

Ground Beef or Lamb (1 pound): 800 calories
Onion (1 medium): 50 calories
Garlic (2 cloves): 10 calories
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): 240 calories
Phyllo Dough (1 package): 1,000 calories
Butter (1/2 cup): 800 calories
Total Calories per Serving: Approximately 363 calories