Burek (flaky Spinach Pastry)

Burek is a traditional flaky spinach pastry that is popular in Bukharan Jewish Cuisine. This savory pastry is filled with a delicious mixture of spinach, onions, and spices, and is perfect for serving as an appetizer or light meal.

Kosher Vegetarian Appetizer Bukharan Jewish Savory Pastry Spinach
Burek (flaky Spinach Pastry)

Ingredients

  • 1 package of phyllo dough
  • 2 pounds of fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1/4 cup of melted butter

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the water and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the spinach mixture cool.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet.
  5. Unroll the phyllo dough and place one sheet on a clean work surface. Brush the sheet with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush with butter. Repeat with 4 more sheets, brushing each with butter.
  6. Spread the cooled spinach mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough.
  7. Roll the layered phyllo dough and spinach into a log, then coil the log into a spiral shape. Place the spiral on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Brush the top of the spiral with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the burek cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Baking

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
220 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g
Protein
8g
Fat
14g

Supplies

Large skillet Baking sheet

Tools

Brush for butter

Serving suggestions

Serve the burek with a side of plain yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a shortcut, you can use frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained instead of fresh spinach.

Cost

$15