HOW TO PREPARE BOREK.

Börek is a popular pastry in Turkey and many parts of the Balkans and the Middle East. It is made of thin layers of dough known as yufka (or phyllo dough as a substitute) and is typically filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

Here’s a basic recipe for cheese börek:

Ingredients:
For the Filling:

200g (about 7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
200g (about 7 oz) grated mozzarella or any melting cheese
1 egg
A handful of chopped parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Börek:

500g (about 1 lb) yufka or phyllo dough sheets (If using phyllo, keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.)
100g (about 3.5 oz) unsalted butter, melted
100ml (about 3.4 fl oz) vegetable oil
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, grated mozzarella, egg, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Prepare the Börek:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and vegetable oil.
If you’re using large sheets of yufka, cut them to fit your baking tray. Lay one sheet of yufka in the tray.
Brush the yufka generously with the butter-oil mixture. Then, layer another sheet and brush again. Repeat this for about 4-5 layers.
Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the layered yufka.
Continue layering and brushing with the butter-oil mixture for another 3-4 sheets of yufka.
Spread the remaining cheese mixture over the top.
Finish with another 3-4 layers of yufka, brushing with the butter-oil mixture between each layer.
Once the börek is assembled, use a sharp knife to slice it into squares or diamonds. This will make it easier to cut and serve once baked.
Brush the top layer generously with the butter-oil mixture. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds or nigella seeds for garnish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using the pre-cut lines, serve warm.
Note: This is just one type of börek. There are many variations with different fillings and shapes, such as rolled or spiral börek. You can experiment with fillings like spinach and onion, minced meat, or even potato. Adjust ingredients based on personal preference. Enjoy your homemade börek!