borek

Borek is a family of pastries made from very thin sheets of dough, typically yufka or phyllo, that are filled with savory ingredients and then baked or fried. The dough is usually layered with oil or butter to create a flaky, crisp texture, and the fillings can be cheese, spinach, potatoes, minced meat, or combinations of these. Borek is prepared in various shapes, including triangles, rectangles, spirals, or cylindrical cigars such as sigara böreği.

The fillings and regional styles vary widely. Common cheese fillings use feta, ricotta, or a soft farmer’s cheese, often mixed with egg. Meat fillings typically feature seasoned minced beef or lamb with onion. Vegetarian versions may combine spinach, herbs, and cheese. The pastry can be served hot or warm, commonly accompanied by yogurt or ayran, and it may be baked in an oven or fried.

Borek is associated with the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire and remains prevalent across Turkey, the Balkans, the Levant, and parts of the Caucasus. Regional names include börek in Turkish, burek or byrek in many Balkan languages, and similar derivatives in neighboring communities. Notable variants include sigara böreği, a slender fried roll, and yogurt- or egg-enriched fillings that reflect local tastes and traditions.

Today borek is a popular dish for breakfast, snacks, or light meals and is widely available in homes, bakeries, and street food settings.