Cheese Burek

Cheese Burek – a traditional delight that will indulge your taste buds

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

I propose a simple and quick recipe for preparing a cheese burek, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is ideal for a quick lunch or a delicious dinner with loved ones. Served warm, the burek becomes an explosion of flavors that will make you come back to it again and again.

Ingredients needed for the filling:
- 400 g feta cheese or cottage cheese (choose a salty cheese, but you can experiment with feta for a more intense flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g sour cream
- 50 g fresh dill, chopped (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of freshness)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g phyllo pastry (store-bought or homemade, if you feel adventurous)
- 100 g melted butter or sunflower oil (for brushing the sheets)
- 1 egg (for glazing)

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, grate or finely crumble the chosen cheese. Add the eggs, sour cream, and chopped dill. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or a fork. The mixture should be homogeneous but quite fluid. If it is too dry, you can add a little extra sour cream. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!

2. Preheating the oven: Before you start assembling the burek, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential to ensure even baking of the pastry.

3. Assembling the burek: On a clean countertop, lay out a sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it with melted butter or oil. Add another sheet on top and repeat this step 2-3 times to achieve a crispier dough. Finally, place the cheese filling on one side of the sheet and carefully roll it up, forming a log. Tuck the ends to seal the filling.

4. Arranging in the tray: Place the formed burek in a tray lined with parchment paper. You can shape it into a spiral or leave it straight, depending on your preferences. Brush the surface with a beaten egg to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

5. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the burek turns golden and crispy. I advise you to check from time to time, as every oven bakes differently.

6. Serving: Once the burek is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into portions. It is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or yogurt.

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add ingredients like sautéed spinach, olives, or mushrooms for a more complex filling. You can also use goat cheese for a distinct flavor.

The cheese burek is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that will remind you of family meals from childhood. Enjoy every bite and savor the traditional flavors!