Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g phyllo dough
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 eggs
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
3. Add the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin to the skillet and stir until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, water, and eggs.
5. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of the baking dish and brush it with the egg mixture.
6. Repeat with 5 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with the egg mixture.
7. Spread half of the beef mixture over the top layer of phyllo dough.
8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining phyllo dough and beef mixture.
9. Brush the top layer of phyllo dough with the remaining egg mixture.
10. Use a sharp knife to cut the börek into diamond shapes.
11. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the börek is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Total fat: 28g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 540mg
Total carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 17g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or turkey can be used instead of ground beef.
- Olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
- Chicken broth can be used instead of water.
Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or feta cheese to the beef mixture for a different flavor.
- Use a different spice blend, such as za'atar or baharat, in place of the paprika and cumin.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with the egg mixture to ensure that the börek is crispy and golden brown.
- If the phyllo dough tears, simply patch it up with another piece of phyllo dough and continue layering.
- Leftover börek can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover börek can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the börek, place it in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the börek on a platter with a sprinkling of chopped parsley or cilantro.
Garnishes:
Chopped parsley or cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and tomatoes.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed greens salad with tomatoes and cucumbers
- Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the börek is not crispy enough, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- If the börek is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover börek in the refrigerator and discard any that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food History:
Bülbül Yuvası Böreği is a traditional Turkish dish that is named after the "nightingale's nest" shape of the börek. It is typically served as a main dish or as part of a mezze platter.
Flavor Profiles:
Savory, spicy, crispy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the börek with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
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Region: Turkish