19 Turkish Barak Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 10, 2024
Turkish barak is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed by generations in Turkey. Originating from the Turkish province of Mardin, this recipe has been passed down through families and is now a staple in Turkish cuisine. Barak is a type of dumpling that is filled with a savory mixture of meat and spices, then boiled and served with a flavorful broth. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and ingredients of this delicious dish, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Yufka Dough, Olive Oil, Small Onion, Spinach, White
This traditional Turkish dish is a must-try for any food lover. Made with flaky pastry and a filling of feta cheese and parsley, these cigar-shaped rolls are a perfect appetizer or snack. The name "sigara borek" translates to "cigarette pastry" due to their shape and size. They are typically served with a side of yogurt for dipping and can be found in many Turkish restaurants around the world.
Borek, or börek, is a popular savory pastry in Turkish cuisine. It can be made with a variety of fillings, including cheese, meat, or vegetables, and is often served as a breakfast dish or snack. The dough is typically made with flour, water, and oil, and is rolled out thin before being filled and baked. Borek is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day and is a staple in Turkish households.
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Turkish Borek with Cheese and Herbs
Main Ingredients: Phyllo Sheets, Eggs, Yogurt, Olive Oil, Feta Cheese
This variation of borek combines the creamy and salty flavors of feta cheese with the freshness of herbs like parsley and dill. The herbs not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese filling. These borek are typically served as a side dish or appetizer and are a great addition to any dinner party or potluck.
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Turkish Borek (Vegan Spinach Rolls)
Main Ingredients: Pastry, Non Dairy Milk, Oil, Sesame Seeds, Onion
For those looking for a meat-free option, these vegan spinach rolls are a delicious alternative. The filling is made with spinach, onions, and spices, and is wrapped in flaky pastry. These borek are perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some extra greens!
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Easy Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic, Onion, Spinach, Feta Cheese, Salt
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade borek, this easy recipe is for you. It uses store-bought phyllo dough, making the preparation process quick and simple. The filling is a classic combination of spinach and feta, and the result is a delicious and flaky pastry that will impress your guests.
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Low-Carb & Keto Turkish Borek
Main Ingredients: Shredded Mozzarella, Cream Cheese, Almond Flour, Large
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this borek recipe is a must-try. It uses almond flour and coconut flour to make a dough that is gluten-free and low in carbs. The filling is made with ground beef, onions, and spices, making it a protein-packed and flavorful dish. Serve it as a main dish or cut into smaller pieces for a tasty appetizer.
This is another variation of the classic Turkish borek, but with a twist. Instead of using traditional feta cheese, this recipe calls for mozzarella and cheddar, giving the borek a gooey and cheesy center. The addition of black pepper and parsley adds a depth of flavor to this simple yet delicious dish.
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Çiğ Börek / Turkish Raw meat pastry
Main Ingredients: Ap Flour, Yogurt, Olive Oil, Salt, Medium Egg, Water
This unique borek recipe uses raw meat as the filling, which is then cooked when the pastry is baked. The meat is mixed with onions, spices, and parsley, and the result is a juicy and flavorful borek that is sure to impress. This dish is perfect for meat lovers and is a popular street food in Turkey.
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Turkish Sigara Borek with Minced Elk
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Ground Elk, Yellow Onion, Raisins, Almond
If you're looking to try something different, this borek recipe uses minced elk as the filling. The meat is mixed with onions, garlic, and spices, and then wrapped in flaky pastry. The result is a unique and tasty dish that is perfect for anyone looking to add some variety to their meals.
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Turkish #Leek Pastry borek / Pırasa Böreğı
Main Ingredients: Phyllo Pastry, Leek, Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil, White
Leeks are a staple in Turkish cuisine, and this borek recipe showcases their delicious flavor. The leeks are cooked with onions and spices and then wrapped in phyllo dough. The result is a savory and fragrant borek that is perfect for a light lunch or snack.
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Turkish Halloumi and Mint Rolls (Sigara Borek)
Main Ingredients: Filo, Cheese, Mint Leaves, Egg, Sunflower Oil, Ground
If you love halloumi cheese, then this borek recipe is for you. The salty and creamy cheese is mixed with fresh mint and wrapped in flaky pastry, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. These rolls are perfect for a summer gathering or as a quick and easy appetizer.
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Kıymalı börek (Turkish style minced meat pasty)
Main Ingredients: Minced Meat, Onions, Leek, Pepper, Salt, Cumin Powder
This borek recipe uses minced meat, onions, and spices as the filling, creating a hearty and flavorful pastry. It is often served as a main dish and is perfect for a family dinner. The meat is cooked with tomatoes and peppers, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
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Peynirli Borek - Turkish Cheese and Parsley Pastries
Main Ingredients: Phyllo Pastry, Milk, Vegetable Oil, Large Eggs
These bite-sized borek are a perfect party appetizer. They are made with a mixture of feta and ricotta cheese, along with parsley and dill. The small size of these borek makes them easy to eat and perfect for sharing. Plus, they are so delicious that you won't be able to stop at just one!
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Turkish Cigarette Börek (Sigara Böreği) with Roasted...
Main Ingredients: Phyllo Dough, Canola Oil, Garlic, Baby Spinach, Dried
This recipe puts a spin on the classic sigara borek by adding roasted red peppers to the filling. The peppers add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, making it a unique and tasty variation. These borek are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Cherry Turkish Taffy
Main Ingredients: Egg White, Sugar, Water, Cornstarch, Cherry Jam, Butter
After all those savory dishes, it's time for something sweet. This Turkish taffy recipe uses cherry juice and sugar to create a chewy and flavorful treat. It is typically served during special occasions and holidays, but you can enjoy it anytime you have a craving for something sweet.
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Turkish Air Fried Borek | Vegan spinach and cheese...
Main Ingredients: Spinach Leaves, Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell Pepper
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of borek. The pastry is air-fried instead of baked or fried, making it lower in calories and fat. The filling is a combination of spinach, tofu, and cashews, creating a creamy and delicious vegan alternative to the traditional cheese filling.
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Traditional Yugoslavian Rolled Burek (Borek)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Medium Yellow Onion, Ground Beef, Allspice
While borek is a popular dish in Turkey, it is also enjoyed in other countries in the Balkans, such as Yugoslavia. This recipe for rolled burek uses a combination of beef and pork as the filling, along with onions and spices. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a chilly evening.
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Greek Yogurt Turkish Flatbread (Bazlama)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Dried Yeast, Sugar, Greek Style Yogurt
Bazlama is a delicious and versatile Turkish flatbread that can be enjoyed on its own or used to make sandwiches and wraps. This recipe uses Greek yogurt to create a soft and fluffy texture, while the addition of herbs and spices gives it a flavorful kick. Serve it with a dip or use it as a base for your favorite toppings.
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Menemen (Turkish Egg Scramble)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Large Green Bell Pepper, Diced
This traditional Turkish breakfast dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Turkey. It is made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and onions, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. Menemen is often served with crusty bread for dipping and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
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Turkish Cacik
Main Ingredients: Plain Yogurt, Cucumbers, Chopped Walnuts, Fresh Dill
This refreshing yogurt-based dip is a staple in Turkish cuisine and is often served as a side dish or appetizer. It is made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs, and can be enjoyed with pita bread or as a topping for grilled meats. It is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day and is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Turkish flavors.
The History of Turkish Barak
The Origin of Barak
Barak has a rich history that can be traced back to the ancient Silk Road trade route. As merchants traveled through the Middle East, they brought with them new spices and ingredients that were incorporated into the local cuisine. It is believed that barak was first created in the city of Mardin, which is located in southeastern Turkey. This city has a diverse population, with influences from Assyrian, Arab, Kurdish, and Turkish cultures, all of which have contributed to the development of barak.
The Significance of Barak in Turkish Culture
Turkish barak holds a special place in the hearts of Turkish people. It is a dish that has been enjoyed during holidays, celebrations, and family gatherings for centuries. In fact, it is often referred to as the "food of love" in Turkish culture, as it is a dish that brings people together and creates a sense of community. It is also a symbol of hospitality, as it is customary for Turkish families to serve barak to their guests as a sign of welcoming and generosity.
The Ingredients of Turkish Barak
The Dough
The dough for Turkish barak is made from flour, water, salt, and sometimes eggs. The dough is rolled out thin and cut into small squares, which are then filled with the savory mixture.
The Filling
The filling of Turkish barak is made from ground meat, usually lamb or beef, and a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and black pepper. It can also include onions, garlic, and parsley for added flavor. The filling is cooked before being added to the dough squares.
How to Make Turkish Barak at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 cup of warm water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, mix 1 lb of ground meat with 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tsp of cumin, 1 tsp of paprika, and ½ tsp of black pepper. Cook the mixture in a pan over medium heat until the meat is browned.
Step 3: Assemble the Barak
Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is thin. Cut into small squares and place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
Step 4: Cook the Barak
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the barak and cook for 10-12 minutes, until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a serving dish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the broth from the pot over the barak and serve hot. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of sumac on top for added flavor.
With its rich history and delicious flavors, Turkish barak is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the diverse and vibrant cuisine of Turkey. Try making it at home and share this beloved Turkish tradition with your friends and family.
