Properties :

Spinach borek is a delicious and nutritious dish that offers a variety of health benefits. The key ingredient, spinach, is a rich source of vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, including folate, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and immune function. Spinach also provides a good amount of iron and magnesium, which support muscle function and help in the production of red blood cells. The addition of feta cheese contributes calcium and protein, both important for bone health and muscle repair. Olive oil, used in both the dough and filling, is high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting healthy cholesterol levels. The dish also offers a moderate amount of protein, particularly when made with eggs and cheese, making it a good option for muscle maintenance. While delicious, it is important to remember that the calories can add up, especially if made with traditional dough or a large amount of cheese, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Ingredients :

Wheat Flour : 3 Cup

Water : 1 Cup

Olive Oil : 4 Tablespoon

Salt : 1 Teaspoon

Spinach : 300 g

Onion : 1 Piece

Feta : 150 g

Beyaz peynir-

black pepper : to taste

Chicken Egg : 1 Piece

Sesame Seeds : 1 Tablespoon

Golden and crispy spinach burek - your taste buds will thank you after every bite!

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, sift together the flour and salt(1 teaspoon).
Gradually add water and olive oil(2 tablespoons), kneading until the dough is soft.
Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil(2 tablespoons) in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown.
Add the spinach and cook until the excess water evaporates.
Season with salt and pepper, and let it cool.
Add the crumbled feta cheese and mix well.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Roll the dough on a floured surface, or use store-bought phyllo dough if preferred.
Spread the filling evenly on the dough.
Roll the dough into a spiral shape and place it in a round baking dish.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the top of the borek with a beaten egg.
If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Borek

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Bake the borek for 30 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the borek from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious spinach borek!

Description:

When preparing spinach borek, it’s essential to properly handle the dough to ensure it is both tender and flaky. If you're making your dough from scratch, take care to knead it until smooth and allow it to rest before rolling it out, which will make it easier to work with and result in a more delicate texture. When sautéing the spinach and onions, make sure to cook out all the moisture from the spinach to prevent the borek from becoming soggy. Also, be mindful of the seasoning balance—since feta cheese can be quite salty, it’s important to taste the mixture before adding extra salt. If you're using phyllo dough, be sure to handle it gently, as it can tear easily. For a golden finish, brush the rolled borek with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for extra flavor and texture. Finally, bake the borek at the correct temperature to achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust without overcooking the filling.

Description of diets:

Spinach borek, while delicious and nutritious, may not be suitable for all diets. It is ideal for those following a vegetarian diet as it contains no meat and can easily be modified to meet vegan requirements by substituting the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and using a vegan egg substitute. However, it is not suitable for ketogenic diets, as it contains a significant amount of carbohydrates from the dough and other ingredients like onions and spinach. For those following a gluten-free diet, traditional dough made from wheat flour would not be appropriate, but gluten-free dough can be used as an alternative. If you're following a low-calorie diet, be cautious of portion sizes, as the cheese and olive oil add a considerable number of calories, though modifications can be made to reduce these. Similarly, for those following a paleo or DASH diet, this recipe would need adjustments, such as replacing the cheese with a more compliant option or using almond flour for the dough.