Sigara Böreği (Turkish Cheese Rolls)

 Crispy, golden pastry rolls filled with creamy cheese and herbs - a beloved Turkish appetizer

 

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 cup Turkish white cheese (beyaz peynir), crumbled, or feta cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or Turkish lor cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt (taste first as cheese may be salty)

For Assembly

• 1 package phyllo dough (yufka) or spring roll wrappers
• 1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)

For Frying

• Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 4-6 cups)
• Or 2 tablespoons oil for pan frying

Instructions

Preparing the Filling

1. Mix the cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled white cheese and ricotta. Mash together with a fork until well blended but still slightly chunky.
2. Add herbs and seasoning: Fold in the chopped parsley, dill, mint (if using), egg yolk, and black pepper. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
3. Taste and adjust: Taste the mixture and add a pinch of salt if needed (remember, the cheese is already salty).
4. Rest the filling: Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Preparing the Phyllo

1. Thaw phyllo: If using frozen phyllo, thaw according to package directions.
2. Keep moist: Cover phyllo sheets with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out.

Assembling the Börek

1. Cut phyllo: Cut phyllo sheets into strips about 4 inches wide and 12 inches long.
2. Brush with butter: Lightly brush each strip with melted butter or olive oil.
3. Add filling: Place 1-2 tablespoons of cheese filling at one end of the strip, about 1 inch from the edge.
4. Roll technique:
   
   • Fold the sides of the phyllo over the filling
   • Roll tightly from the filling end toward the other end
   • Brush the end with beaten egg and press to seal
   • The roll should look like a thin cigarette (hence "sigara")
     
     
     
   5. Prepare all rolls: Repeat until all filling is used. Keep finished rolls covered with a damp towel.

Cooking Methods

Deep Frying (Traditional)

1. Heat oil: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot or fryer.
2. Fry in batches: Fry 4-5 börek at a time for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Pan Frying (Lighter Option)

1. Heat pan: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Cook börek: Cook börek in batches, turning frequently, until golden brown on all sides (about 6-8 minutes total).

Baking Option

1. Preheat oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush with butter: Place börek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with melted butter.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve immediately while hot and crispy
• Accompany with Turkish tea (çay)
• Great with a side of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers
• Perfect for parties and gatherings
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice

Variations

Different Cheese Combinations

• Use only feta for a stronger flavor
• Mix in some kasseri or mozzarella for extra meltiness
• Add cream cheese for extra creaminess

Herb Variations

• Try adding fresh chives or green onions
• Include a small amount of fresh cilantro
• Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme

Spinach Addition

• Add 1/2 cup cooked, drained, and chopped spinach to the cheese mixture
• Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach before adding

Tips for Perfect Sigara Böreği

• Phyllo handling: Work quickly and keep unused sheets covered
• Don't overfill: Too much filling will cause bursting during cooking
• Seal well: Make sure ends are properly sealed with egg wash
• Oil temperature: Maintain proper oil temperature for even cooking
• Serve immediately: Best eaten fresh and hot
• Make ahead: Can be assembled and frozen before cooking

Make-Ahead Instructions

Freezing Before Cooking

1. Assemble börek completely
2. Place on a baking sheet and freeze until solid
3. Transfer to freezer bags
4. Store for up to 3 months
5. Cook directly from frozen (add 1-2 minutes to cooking time)

Storage

• Cooked börek are best eaten immediately
• Can be stored in refrigerator for 1 day and reheated in oven
• Reheat at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness

Troubleshooting

• Börek bursting: Filling too wet or overfilled, or oil too hot
• Not crispy: Oil not hot enough or phyllo too thick
• Soggy: Not drained properly after frying

Makes about 20-25 börek

Note: This recipe is naturally halal when made with halal-certified cheese. Perfect for Ramadan iftar or any special occasion!