This version of cheese borek uses smoked Gouda and Emmenthal cheese instead of the traditional feta filling. The recipe yields 48 stuffed phyllo triangles and can be prepared a day in advance.
Ingredients (for 16 servings)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ tsp crushed red pepper
- 6 oz smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
- 6 oz Emmentaler cheese, finely shredded
- 12 sheets phyllo dough
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix egg, parsley, garlic, crushed red pepper, Gouda, and Emmentaler.
- Assemble the borek:
- Lay one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface and brush with melted butter.
- Cut it lengthwise into 4 strips.
- Place a rounded teaspoon of filling at one end of each strip and fold into a triangle, continuing to fold along the length.
- Repeat for all phyllo sheets.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly butter a baking sheet and arrange borek in a single layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 8g
- Protein: 7g
Reviews & Variations
- Some prefer feta cheese instead of Gouda/Emmenthal for a more traditional taste.
- Others suggest using yufka (Turkish dough) instead of phyllo for easier preparation.
- Borek can also be layered like a lasagna, rolled into a spiral, or baked in a round pan instead of individual triangles.
- Pairs well with plain yogurt or served as an appetizer with dips.
The Rich History and Flavor of Cheese Borek
Cheese borek is a beloved pastry dish that has been enjoyed across various cultures for centuries. With origins tracing back to the Ottoman Empire, borek is a staple in many Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Mediterranean cuisines. This crispy, cheese-filled pastry is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a snack, or even a main course. While traditional versions use feta cheese, this particular recipe features a unique twist by incorporating smoked Gouda and Emmenthal, which create a rich, creamy filling with a slightly nutty and smoky flavor.
Borek is known for its delicate, flaky layers, made possible by phyllo dough, a paper-thin pastry that requires careful handling. The contrast between the crisp, golden-brown exterior and the gooey, melted cheese inside makes this dish irresistible. Over the years, borek has taken on many forms, varying in shape, filling, and preparation methods depending on the region. From spiral-shaped borek in Bosnia to cigar-shaped Turkish sigara borek, this dish continues to be a culinary favorite worldwide.
The Cultural Significance of Borek
Borek is not just a meal—it is a dish deeply rooted in tradition and history. The Ottoman Empire played a significant role in spreading borek across its territories, which is why variations of this dish exist in countries such as Turkey, Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, and Armenia. Each region has its own spin on borek, influenced by local ingredients and cultural preferences.
In Turkey, borek is commonly made with yufka, a slightly thicker dough compared to phyllo. It is often layered in a large pan or rolled into cigar-like shapes and filled with ingredients such as feta cheese, minced meat, or spinach. In the Balkans, burek is a variation of borek that can be shaped into spirals or layered like a pie. Armenians and Greeks also have their own versions, sometimes adding yogurt or eggs to the filling for extra richness.
Borek is frequently prepared for special occasions and family gatherings. The process of making borek is often a communal activity, where multiple generations come together to prepare the dough, fill the pastries, and fold them into their desired shapes. This tradition has helped preserve the dish’s cultural significance, passing it down through families for centuries.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Dish
While traditional borek recipes often call for feta cheese, this version offers a fresh take by using smoked Gouda and Emmenthal. These cheeses bring a richer, more buttery taste to the borek, creating a luxurious and satisfying filling. Smoked Gouda adds a depth of flavor that pairs well with the light, crisp texture of the phyllo dough. Meanwhile, Emmenthal contributes a mild, slightly nutty taste that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
One of the key aspects of this recipe is the balance between texture and flavor. The crispy layers of phyllo contrast beautifully with the creamy cheese filling, creating a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. The addition of fresh parsley, garlic, and crushed red pepper adds subtle seasoning, making each bite even more flavorful.
The Art of Working with Phyllo Dough
One of the challenges of making cheese borek is handling phyllo dough, which is extremely thin and fragile. Unlike traditional pastry dough, phyllo dries out quickly and can tear easily, requiring careful handling. To prevent this, it is recommended to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while assembling the borek.
Brushing each layer of phyllo with melted butter is crucial for achieving the perfect golden-brown crispiness. This step not only adds a rich, buttery flavor but also ensures that the layers bake evenly. While assembling the borek into small triangles takes time, the end result is well worth the effort.
For those who prefer a quicker method, borek can also be prepared as a layered casserole. Instead of folding the dough into individual triangles, the filling can be spread between sheets of phyllo in a baking dish, similar to a lasagna. This method reduces preparation time while still delivering the same delicious flavors.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Cheese borek is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. In Turkey and the Balkans, it is often enjoyed with ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink that complements the rich, buttery flavors of the pastry. Alternatively, it can be served with a side of fresh salad, tomato slices, or olives for a balanced meal.
For a more indulgent experience, borek can be accompanied by dipping sauces such as tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or spicy tomato sauce. The combination of the warm, crispy pastry with cool, creamy dips creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
This dish is also perfect for entertaining guests. The bite-sized portions make it easy to serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a breakfast dish, or a side to a larger meal, cheese borek remains a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Considerations and Modifications
While cheese borek is a delicious treat, it is also rich in calories and fat due to the butter and cheese content. A single serving contains approximately 280 calories, with most of the calories coming from fat. For those looking to make a lighter version, there are several modifications that can be made.
Using reduced-fat cheese or a combination of cheese and vegetables, such as spinach, can lower the calorie count while maintaining great flavor. Additionally, substituting some of the butter with olive oil can help reduce saturated fat content. Baking the borek with an egg wash instead of butter can also result in a slightly healthier alternative while still achieving a golden-brown crust.
For those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, using alternative dough options such as almond flour-based pastry sheets or gluten-free phyllo can make this dish more accessible. These adjustments allow borek to be enjoyed by a wider range of people with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Cheese borek is more than just a pastry—it is a dish rich in history, tradition, and cultural significance. The use of smoked Gouda and Emmenthal in this version adds a unique twist, creating a flavorful and indulgent experience. While working with phyllo dough requires patience and skill, the end result is a beautifully crisp and cheesy delight that is well worth the effort.
Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, cheese borek continues to be a beloved dish across different cultures. Its versatility, ease of customization, and satisfying taste make it a timeless favorite. Whether following the traditional feta-based recipe or experimenting with new flavors, borek remains a dish that brings people together, celebrating both culinary heritage and creativity.