Burekas

Burekas are a type of baked or fried filled pastry, originating from the Jewish communities of the Ottoman Empire. They are popular in Israel, as well as in other countries with Sephardic Jewish communities, such as Turkey, Greece, and the Balkans. Burekas come in many shapes and sizes, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, spinach, potato, and meat.

History

The name "burekas" comes from the Turkish word "börek", which refers to a family of baked filled pastries. Burekas were brought to Israel by Sephardic Jews, who had been making them in their communities in the Ottoman Empire for centuries. They quickly became a popular street food in Israel, and are now a staple of Israeli cuisine.

Preparation

Burekas are made by filling a dough with a variety of ingredients, then folding the dough over the filling and baking or frying it. The dough is typically made from flour, water, and a small amount of oil, and is rolled out very thin. The filling can be made from a variety of ingredients, including cheese, spinach, potato, and meat. After the burekas are baked or fried, they are often topped with sesame seeds.

Varieties

There are many different varieties of burekas, each with its own unique filling. Some of the most popular varieties include:

• Cheese burekas: These are filled with a variety of cheeses, such as feta, ricotta, or cottage cheese. They are often topped with sesame seeds.

• Spinach burekas: These are filled with cooked spinach, often mixed with cheese.

• Potato burekas: These are filled with mashed potatoes, often mixed with onions and spices.

• Meat burekas: These are filled with cooked ground meat, often mixed with onions and spices.

Cultural significance

In Israel, burekas are a popular street food and are often eaten for breakfast or lunch. They are also commonly served at celebrations and special occasions. In addition, they are a staple of Sephardic Jewish cuisine, and are often made for holidays and other religious observances.