Tosunum Böreği, a lesser-known but utterly delicious Turkish pastry, is a must-try for food enthusiasts who love exploring different cuisines. This savory treat, originating from Turkey’s rich culinary tradition, blends a unique combination of ingredients encased in flaky, golden-brown layers of phyllo dough. Perfect for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply as a satisfying snack, Tosunum Böreği is sure to win over your taste buds with its hearty flavors.
1-Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add water and olive oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes, covered.
2-Cook the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add onions, bell pepper, and cook until soft. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
3-Assemble the Böreği: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). On a floured surface, roll out the dough thinly. Cut into squares. Place a spoonful of filling on each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form triangles or rectangles. Brush each with melted butter.
4-Bake: Arrange the böreği on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
5-Serve: Enjoy Tosunum Böreği hot, accompanied by a side of yogurt or a fresh green salad.
Tosunum Böreği is more than just a pastry; it's a delightful journey into the heart of Turkish cuisine. Its rich and flavorful filling, encased in crispy layers, makes it an irresistible snack for any time of day.
Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is rolled out thinly for the perfect crispness. If rolling out dough is challenging, using ready-made phyllo dough is an excellent alternative.
Filling Variations: While the traditional recipe uses ground meat, you can substitute it with spinach, cheese, or potatoes for a vegetarian version.
Freezing Option: Tosunum Böreği can be prepared in advance and frozen before baking. Bake them directly from the freezer, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of yogurt or ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink) to balance the flavors.
Spice It Up: Don't hesitate to add more spices like garlic powder, coriander, or chili flakes for an extra kick.