Sodalı Mercimek Böreği, or Lentil Pastry with Sparkling Water, is a beloved Turkish dish that offers a unique twist on traditional börek. This savory pastry is filled with a flavorful mixture of green lentils and spices, all encased in layers of phyllo dough that become incredibly crispy and light, thanks to the addition of sparkling water. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making the perfect Sodalı Mercimek Böreği at home. Perfect for vegetarians and a great way to introduce your family to the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine!
1-Cook the Lentils: Rinse 1 cup of green lentils under cold water. Place the lentils in a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
2-Sauté the Onions: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
3-Season the Filling: Add the cooked lentils to the sautéed onions. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. If using parsley, stir it in at this point. Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool.
1-Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish with olive oil. Lay out the phyllo dough on a clean surface, covering it with a slightly damp cloth to prevent drying.
2-Layer the Phyllo Dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet lightly with a mixture of olive oil and plain yogurt. Repeat this process, layering 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough.
3-Add the Lentil Filling: Spread the lentil filling evenly over the phyllo layers.
4-Top with More Phyllo: Continue layering 4-5 more sheets of phyllo dough over the filling, brushing each layer with the olive oil and yogurt mixture.
5-Add the Sparkling Water: Once all the phyllo layers are in place, cut the börek into squares or triangles. Pour the sparkling water evenly over the entire börek.
1-Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, beat 1 egg and brush it over the top layer of the börek. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or nigella seeds if desired.
2-Bake: Place the börek in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
3-Cool and Serve: Remove the börek from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, and enjoy the crisp, flaky layers with the hearty lentil filling!
In conclusion, Sodalı Mercimek Böreği is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also a healthy and vegetarian-friendly option that can be enjoyed by everyone. The sparkling water adds an unexpected lightness to the pastry, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Try this recipe at home and bring the taste of Turkey to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how your Sodalı Mercimek Böreği turned out!
Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Fresh phyllo dough is easier to work with and provides a better texture. If using frozen dough, make sure it’s fully thawed before use.
Season the Lentils Well: Lentils can be bland if not properly seasoned. Don’t be shy with the spices – cumin, paprika, and black pepper add depth and warmth to the filling.
Brush the Dough with Olive Oil: Brushing each layer of phyllo dough with olive oil before adding the sparkling water mixture helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
Serve Warm: Sodalı Mercimek Böreği is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to retain the crispiness.
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