Ispanakli Kol Boregi, Bosnak Boregi (Traditional Turkish Pastry With Spinach) Recipe
Ispanakli Kol Boregi, also known as Bosnak Boregi, is a delightful Turkish pastry that beckons you to savor the rich and diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine. This traditional delicacy has a storied history, originating in the heart of Turkey and making its way into households across the world. It’s a pastry deeply rooted in Turkish culture, often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, and it carries with it the warmth and hospitality of this remarkable country.
Why I Like This Recipe and Why You Will Want to Try It
I absolutely love this recipe for Traditional Turkish Pastry with Spinach, and I’m confident you’ll want to give it a try too. Firstly, it’s incredibly delicious, with a perfect blend of crispy pastry and a savory spinach-cheese filling. The contrast of textures and flavors is simply delightful. Plus, it’s versatile – you can serve it as an appetizer at gatherings or enjoy it as a satisfying snack.
Moreover, making these pastries is a rewarding culinary experience. It’s a great way to connect with Turkish traditions and share a taste of Turkey with your loved ones. The joy of crafting these pastries by hand and witnessing them bake to golden perfection is truly satisfying. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try.
Key Ingredients and Their Purpose
For the pastry, you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: It forms the base of the dough, providing structure.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pastry.
- Warm water: Helps bind the dough ingredients together.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle Mediterranean flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Egg: Adds richness and helps with the dough’s texture.
For the spinach filling, you’ll need:
- Fresh spinach: The star of the show, providing a burst of earthy freshness.
- Feta cheese: Adds a creamy and tangy element to the filling.
- Ricotta cheese: Provides a smooth and mild creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor.
- Onion and garlic: Infuse the filling with aromatic goodness.
- Fresh parsley: Offers a hint of herbaceousness.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning, bringing out all the flavors.
Instructions and Summary for Instructions
For the pastry:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt, then create a well in the center.
- In another bowl, whisk together warm water, olive oil, and egg.
- Pour the wet mixture into the well of dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead it until it’s elastic.
- Divide the dough into 12 portions, shape them into balls, and let them rest for 20 minutes.
For the spinach filling:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, then let it cool.
- Mix feta cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley in a separate bowl.
- Add the cooled spinach mixture, season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.
Assembling the pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll out a dough ball into a 6-inch circle.
- Place the spinach and cheese mixture in the center, fold the sides, and seal the edges.
- Repeat for the remaining dough balls and filling.
Baking:
- Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush the tops with olive oil.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Tips:
- You can experiment with different greens, like Swiss chard or kale.
- Customize the filling with herbs and spices like dill, mint, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of yogurt for an authentic Turkish touch. Enjoy your journey into Turkish cuisine with these delectable pastries!
Ispanakli Kol Boregi, Bosnak Boregi (Traditional Turkish Pastry With Spinach)
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Pastry brush
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 egg
For the spinach filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
For the pastry:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
- In another bowl, whisk together the warm water, olive oil, and egg.
- Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry ingredients.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into balls. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for 20 minutes.
For the spinach filling:
- In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a separate bowl, combine the feta cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Mix well.
- Add the cooled spinach mixture to the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined.
Assembling the pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll out one of the dough balls into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
- Place a generous spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of the dough.
- Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, creating a rectangular shape. Make sure to seal the edges.
- Repeat this process for the remaining dough balls and filling.
Baking:
- Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with a little olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with other greens like Swiss chard or kale.
- Customize the filling with herbs and spices like dill, mint, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve the pastries with a side of yogurt for a traditional Turkish touch.
- Calories: 205
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 2g