There’s something truly satisfying about watching dough transform into golden, flaky pastries. As I was preparing for a gathering, I wanted a dish that would not only tantalize the taste buds but also leave a lasting impression. That’s when I decided to delve into the world of Cheese Borek. This Middle Eastern delight blends a crispy exterior with a creamy feta and parsley filling, creating a savory experience that feels both comforting and indulgent.
What I love about making these boreks is how versatile they are. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack with friends or serving them at a festive iftar, they never fail to steal the show. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something from scratch brings a warmth to the kitchen that fast food can’t replicate. Join me in crafting these delightful pastries, and let’s turn your culinary adventures into delicious memories!
Why is Cheese Borek so irresistible?
Flaky Pastry: The golden, crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Savory Filling: A perfect blend of feta and fresh parsley elevates flavor like no other.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for snacks or festive occasions, pleasing everyone at the table.
Quick Prep: Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness in minimal time.
Cultural Delight: Embrace a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right in your kitchen—it’s a crowd favorite! Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this Cheese Borek recipe is designed to impress and inspire.
Cheese Borek Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create that irresistible Cheese Borek from scratch!
For the Dough
- Flour – Provides structure and texture; all-purpose flour works best.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions needed here.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds richness and moisture; olive oil can be used for a unique twist.
- Sugar – Tenderizes the dough and balances flavors; can be omitted if preferred.
- Warm Water – Hydrates and activates the dough; ensure it’s warm but not too hot.
For the Filling
- Puck® Premium Feta Cheese – A creamy, tangy filling essential for that signature taste; swap it with ricotta for a milder flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds brightness and freshness to the filling; both curly and flat-leaf parsley work well.
For Frying
- Oil for Frying – Key for achieving that crispy exterior; choose high smoke-point oils like canola or sunflower for best results.
How to Make Cheese Borek
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix in ¼ cup of vegetable oil, then gradually add ¾ cup of warm water. Knead for about 10 minutes until a firm, smooth dough forms. Divide dough into four balls and let them rest for 30 minutes. -
Make the Filling:
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of crumbled Puck® Premium Feta Cheese with ½ cup of finely chopped fresh parsley. Stir until well combined, creating that creamy, flavorful filling. -
Shape the Borek:
Roll each dough ball into a thin sheet about 12 inches in diameter. Cut into 10 cm circles. Place a generous teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center of each circle. Brush edges with water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and seal the edges using a fork. -
Fry the Borek:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the borek in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. For extra puffiness, pour hot oil over the top while they fry. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the borek to paper towels to drain.
Optional: Serve with a tangy yogurt dip for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheese Borek
- Room Temperature: Allow fried cheese borek to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them at room temperature for a delightful snack.
- Fridge: If storing in the fridge, place the borek in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven to restore their crispy texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked cheese borek. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen without thawing.
- Reheating: To reheat fried cheese borek, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Cheese Borek Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your cheese borek by trying out these delightful twists that will complement your flavors perfectly!
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Goat Cheese: Swap out feta for creamy goat cheese for a tangy and rich filling that melts beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a warm, zesty surprise in every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by mixing in fresh herbs like dill or mint along with parsley for a fresh twist.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling for an exciting texture and nutty flavor variation.
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Savory Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach or finely chopped mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition and earthiness.
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Baked Alternative: For a healthier version, brush with olive oil and bake at 375°F until golden, keeping that crispy exterior without the frying.
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Cheese Blend: Mix feta with mozzarella or cream cheese for a creamier, gooey filling that everyone will love.
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Dough Diversity: Try using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences while still maintaining that flaky texture.
These variations open up a world of savory possibilities, ensuring each batch of cheese borek is a unique experience!
Helpful Tricks for Cheese Borek
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Dough Resting: Allowing your dough to rest for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It relaxes gluten, making it easier to roll out thin and achieve that perfect flaky pastry.
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Avoid Overfilling: Be generous but tidy with your cheese filling. Overfilling can lead to leaks during frying and soggy borek. Stick to about a teaspoon for each circle.
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Seal It Right: For a perfect seal, make sure to brush the edges of your pastry circles with water before folding. This ensures that your borek remains intact while frying.
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Temperature Matters: Maintain medium heat while frying to achieve that golden color without burning. If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly, leaving the inside cold.
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Crispy Finish: A simple egg wash (beaten egg brushed on top) before frying enhances that beautiful, crispy exterior for your Cheese Borek, offering an additional layer of flavor.
What to Serve with Cheese Borek?
A plate of crispy cheese borek deserves to be complemented with sides that enhance its delightful flavors and textures.
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Tangy Yogurt Dip: A cool, creamy dip that balances the richness of the cheese borek, offering a refreshing contrast with each bite.
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Simple Cucumber Salad: Bright and crunchy, this salad with vinegar and olive oil lightens the meal and adds a crisp texture.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs, these vegetables provide a warm, earthy element that pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs elevates the dish, making for a nutritious, hearty accompaniment.
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Mint Tea: This classic beverage cleanses the palate and adds a refreshing finish to the savory experience.
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Baklava: For dessert, this sweet treat offers a delightful contrast to the savory cheese borek, creating a beautifully balanced meal.
Each of these pairings brings a unique flair to your table, ensuring that the delightful experience of cheese borek shines even brighter. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese Borek are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Resting the dough overnight helps enhance its texture—just remember to bring it to room temperature before rolling it out. The filling can be made a day ahead as well; simply mix the feta and parsley, cover, and store in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, shape the borek and fry them until golden. By prepping in advance, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights, and they’ll turn out just as delicious!
Cheese Borek Recipe FAQs
What type of cheese is best for cheese borek?
Absolutely! While feta cheese is traditional for its tangy and creamy flavor, you can also experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, ricotta is an excellent alternative that blends beautifully with fresh parsley.
How should I store leftover cheese borek?
To keep your delicious cheese borek fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that crispy texture.
Can I freeze cheese borek for later use?
Definitely! Freezing is a fantastic option. First, prepare uncooked cheese borek and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen—no need to thaw!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
Very! If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. Alternatively, if it’s too dry, sprinkle a small amount of warm water as you knead until you achieve a smooth, elastic texture. Allowing the dough to rest also helps in achieving the right consistency!
What if my borek leaks during frying?
This can happen! Ensure you don’t overfill your borek, and make sure to seal the edges tightly using water. If leaks still occur, don’t worry! Just keep an eye on them as they fry, and remove any filling from the oil with a slotted spoon to prevent burning.
Are there any considerations for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating allergies, be cautious with cheese options, as dairy can be problematic for some. If you have vegan eaters, you can create a coconut-based cream cheese alternative or a mix of mashed potatoes seasoned with herbs as a filling. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens!
Irresistible Cheese Borek with Feta and Fresh Parsley
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Mix in vegetable oil, then gradually add warm water. Knead for about 10 minutes until a firm, smooth dough forms. Divide dough into four balls and let them rest for 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together crumbled feta cheese with finely chopped fresh parsley until well combined.
- Roll each dough ball into a thin sheet about 12 inches in diameter. Cut into 10 cm circles. Place a generous teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center of each circle. Brush edges with water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and seal edges using a fork.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the borek in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the borek to paper towels to drain.
