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Turkish Spiral Borek with Spiced Ground Beef Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

This Turkish spiral borek with spiced ground beef is a visually stunning and delicious flaky pastry coiled like a snail shell, filled with a savory blend of ground beef, onions, and aromatic spices. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it makes a delightful centerpiece for family gatherings or casual meals. Served warm with yogurt or fresh salad, this traditional Turkish recipe is easy to prepare in any home kitchen using phyllo dough, and it offers customizable options including substitutions for different meats or adding cheese and spinach.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Borek:

  • 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed if frozen
  • ⅓ cup olive oil (or a mix of olive oil and melted butter)
  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
  • Sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, then stir in cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Let the filling cool slightly before using.
  2. Prep the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a large round baking dish or 12-inch oven-safe skillet. Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a slightly damp towel to prevent drying. Lay out one sheet of phyllo and brush it lightly with olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush again.
  3. Fill and Roll: Spoon a thin line of the beef filling along one long edge of the phyllo (about 2–3 tablespoons). Roll it up gently into a long log. Don’t worry if the phyllo tears; it is forgiving in the final shape.
  4. Shape the Spiral: Take your first filled roll and coil it loosely in the center of the greased pan. Continue with the rest of the phyllo and filling, wrapping each new log around the existing spiral, working outward until all the filled logs are coiled.
  5. Brush and Bake: Once the spiral is complete, brush the entire top with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if using. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until deeply golden and crisp.
  6. Cool and Slice: Allow the borek to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with plain yogurt or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.

Notes

  • This spiral borek is traditionally made with lamb, but ground beef is a delicious and accessible alternative.
  • Substitute ground turkey or plant-based ground meat if preferred for variation.
  • Serve with ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink) or a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing contrast.
  • Thaw frozen phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight to avoid cracking.
  • Keep phyllo covered with a damp towel while working to maintain pliability.
  • Generous oiling ensures a crispy, golden finish and prevents dryness.
  • Add shredded mozzarella or cooked spinach to the filling for extra flavor and variety.
  • For an extra crisp base, bake directly on a metal sheet pan.
  • Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze unbaked for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
  • Store leftover borek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; wrap tightly in foil to freeze before or after baking.

Keywords: Turkish borek, spiral borek, kol böreği, phyllo pastry, ground beef borek, savory pastry, Turkish cuisine, spiced ground beef, party appetizer, traditional Turkish recipe

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/turkish-spiral-borek-with-spiced-ground-beef-recipe/