Pizza burek

Pizza burek is a type of burek, a popular dish in the Balkans, that incorporates elements of pizza, an Italian dish known worldwide.

Origin and History

The origin of pizza burek is not clearly defined, but it is believed to have emerged in the late 20th century as a fusion of traditional Balkan and Italian cuisines. The burek itself has a long history in the Balkans, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The incorporation of pizza elements into burek is a relatively recent development, reflecting the global popularity of pizza and the adaptability of the burek format.

Preparation and Ingredients

Pizza burek is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of ingredients commonly found on pizza. This typically includes tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. The layered dough is then rolled or folded, baked until golden brown, and often served with yogurt on the side.

Variations

There are many variations of pizza burek, reflecting regional preferences and individual tastes. Some versions may include additional ingredients such as olives, ham, sausage, or spinach. The type and amount of cheese can also vary, with some recipes using feta cheese, cheddar cheese, or a combination of different cheeses.

Cultural Significance

Pizza burek represents a fusion of different culinary traditions and is a testament to the ongoing evolution of food culture in the Balkans. It is a popular choice in bakeries and fast food outlets, and is also commonly made at home.

See Also

• Burek
• Pizza
• Balkan cuisine
• Italian cuisine