Sigara Boregi (Turkish Cheese Rolls) Recipe

Introduction

Sigara Boregi are delightful Turkish cheese rolls that are crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy on the inside. These golden, finger-sized pastries make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup mozzarella (grated)
• ¼ cup parsley (chopped)
• 8 pieces phyllo sheets (filo pastry)
• 1 tbsp water (to brush the phyllo sheets)
• ½ cup oil (to fry the boreks)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, grated mozzarella, and chopped parsley. Mix well and set aside.
2. Step 2: Cut each phyllo sheet lengthwise into 4 equal strips. Keep the unused strips covered with a tea towel to prevent drying out.
3. Step 3: Place one strip in front of you and put about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling on one end of the strip.
4. Step 4: Fold the two long edges of the strip slightly inward to cover the filling, then roll it tightly toward the opposite end.
5. Step 5: Brush a little water on the tip of the strip to seal the roll. Place it on a plate and cover with a towel. Repeat this process with the remaining strips, keeping unused strips covered.
6. Step 6: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until hot. Fry the rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove the rolls and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, add some chopped dill or mint to the cheese filling.
• You can bake the boregi in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes for a lighter option instead of frying.
• Brush the rolls with melted butter before frying for an extra golden crust.

Storage

Store leftover Sigara Boregi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta and mozzarella?

Yes, you can experiment with similar cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or a mild white cheese. Just ensure the filling has some moisture and flavor balance.

Can I prepare Sigara Boregi in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours. Fry them just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

Sigara Boregi (Turkish Cheese Rolls) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 106 reviews

Sigara Boregi are crispy and golden Turkish cheese rolls made by wrapping a savory mixture of feta, mozzarella, and parsley in phyllo pastry and frying until perfectly crunchy. These delightful appetizers are quick to prepare and make a delicious snack or party finger food.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 32 rolls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Turkish

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 cup mozzarella (grated)
• ¼ cup parsley (chopped)

Pastry

• 8 pieces phyllo sheets (filo pastry)
• 1 tbsp water (to brush the phyllo sheets)

For Frying

• ½ cup oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, grated mozzarella, and chopped parsley until well mixed. Set this filling aside.
2. Cut phyllo sheets: Take each phyllo sheet and cut it lengthwise into 4 equal strips. Keep the remaining strips covered with a damp tea towel to prevent them from drying out.
3. Fill the strips: Place one strip in front of you, then put about 1 tablespoon of the cheese and parsley filling at one end of the strip.
4. Fold edges: Fold the two long edges of the phyllo strip slightly inward to encase the filling securely.
5. Roll the borek: Roll the strip tightly toward the opposite end to form a cigar-shaped roll.
6. Seal the edge: Brush a little water on the tip of the strip to seal the roll, then place the finished roll on a plate and cover it with a towel to keep it from drying out.
7. Repeat: Repeat the filling and rolling process with all remaining strips, always keeping unused strips covered to maintain freshness.
8. Heat the oil: Heat ½ cup of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until hot enough for frying.
9. Fry the rolls: Fry the cheese rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain excess oil: Remove the fried boreks from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
11. Serve: Serve the Sigara Boregi warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying and cracking.
• Use a neutral oil with high smoke point like vegetable or sunflower oil for frying.
• These rolls can be kept warm in a low oven while frying the rest.
• For a crispier texture, fry in small batches and do not overcrowd the pan.
• Can be served with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete appetizer experience.

Keywords: Sigara Boregi, Turkish cheese rolls, fried phyllo pastry, appetizer, snack, Turkish cuisine