π§π¦π² Authentic Armenian Cheese Boureks With a Twist π¦π²π§
History:
Boureks, or burek, are a popular snack and appetizer in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, including Armenian. These delicious pastries have a long history dating back centuries. They’re thought to have originated from the Ottoman Empire and were introduced to various regions through trade and cultural exchange. The Armenian version of cheese boureks is a delightful blend of cultural influences.
Components:
- Phyllo Dough: This is the key ingredient. It’s a thin, flaky pastry dough that creates the crispy, golden layers that boureks are known for.
- Cheese Filling: Typically, a mixture of feta and mozzarella cheese is used. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
- Egg: It helps bind the cheese and herbs together.
- Melted Butter: To brush on the phyllo layers for that perfect crispiness.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and sometimes a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prep Your Phyllo Dough: Thaw the phyllo dough according to the package instructions. Keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
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Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix together your crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella. Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley. Season with a pinch of pepper. You can also add a bit of beaten egg to help bind the mixture.
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Assemble the Boureks: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface. Brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and repeat until you have about 3-4 layers.
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Cut and Fill: Cut the layered phyllo into squares or rectangles. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture at the center of each square. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form triangles or squares.
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Baking: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place the boureks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more melted butter. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Let them cool for a few minutes and serve your Armenian cheese boureks warm. They are delightful on their own or with a side of plain yogurt or a fresh salad.
Time Needed:
The time required to prepare Armenian cheese boureks will depend on your experience with working with phyllo dough. Generally, it takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking, so in total, you can expect to spend about 50-55 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Armenian cheese boureks with a twist! π¦π²π§π
Certainly, let’s take a look at the nutrition facts and health information for Armenian Cheese Boureks:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 1 bourek):
- Calories: About 160-180 calories
- Total Fat: 8-10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
- Sodium: 250-300 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 14-16 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 0-1 gram
- Protein: 7-8 grams
Please note that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size used in your recipe. Phyllo dough and cheese are the main contributors to the calorie and fat content.
Health Information:
- Protein: Boureks provide a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
- Calcium: The cheese used in boureks is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Fats: The saturated fat content is relatively high due to the use of cheese and butter. It’s important to consume such foods in moderation, especially if you are watching your saturated fat intake.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be a bit high, mainly from the cheese and added salt. Be mindful of your overall daily sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure or other health concerns.
- Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content is primarily from the phyllo dough. While not extremely high, it’s important to be aware of your carbohydrate intake, especially if you’re managing blood sugar levels.
Armenian Cheese Boureks can be a delightful treat, but they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially if you are concerned about calorie, fat, or sodium intake. You can also consider using reduced-fat cheese and less butter to make a lighter version of this delicious dish.
