How to Make Turkish Spinach Pie (Ispanakli Borek)

Turkish Spinach Pie, known as Ispanaklı Börek, is a delightful dish that brings together flaky pastry and a savory filling. It's a popular choice for breakfast, snacks, or even as a side dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious delicacy.

Ingredients for Ispanaklı Börek

  • 500g of spinach, fresh or frozen
  • 200g of feta cheese
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3-4 sheets of phyllo pastry
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/2 cup of plain yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

Begin by washing the spinach thoroughly. If you are using fresh spinach, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves roughly. For frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out any excess water.

In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent. Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside to cool.

Once the spinach mixture has cooled, crumble the feta cheese into it and mix well. This will be your filling.

2. Prepare the Phyllo Pastry

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is heating, take your phyllo pastry out of the package and lay it flat on a clean surface. You will want to keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.

Take one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it generously with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process, layering 2-3 sheets depending on how flaky you want your pastry to be.

3. Assemble the Börek

Once you have layered your phyllo pastry, spoon the spinach and feta filling along one edge of the pastry. Roll the pastry over the filling tightly, forming a cylinder. You can shape it into a spiral or coil if you prefer a different presentation.

Place the rolled börek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and the yogurt. This mixture will give your börek a beautiful golden color once baked. Brush this egg wash over the rolled börek generously.

5. Bake the Ispanaklı Börek

Bake the börek in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until it is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Ispanaklı Börek is out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into slices. This dish is best served warm, either on its own or with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Enjoy this flavorful Turkish treat as a part of your meal or as a snack any time of the day!

Conclusion

Making Turkish Spinach Pie (Ispanaklı Börek) at home is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that captures the essence of Turkish cuisine. Happy cooking!