Sigara böreği

Sigara böreği is a popular type of börek, a family of baked filled pastries made of a thin flaky dough known as phyllo or yufka, which is common in the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire. The name "sigara böreği" translates to "cigarette börek" due to its cylindrical shape resembling a cigarette.

Origin and History

The exact origin of sigara böreği is unknown, but it is widely believed to have originated in Turkey. It is a part of the rich culinary tradition of the Ottoman Empire, which has influenced many cuisines in the Balkans, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region.

Preparation and Ingredients

Sigara böreği is typically made by wrapping a triangle of yufka dough around a filling of feta cheese, parsley, and sometimes spinach or dill. The filled dough is then rolled into a cylinder, giving it its characteristic shape. The börek is then either baked or fried until golden brown.

Serving and Consumption

Sigara böreği is often served as an appetizer or a snack. It is a common feature in Turkish cuisine, especially during Ramadan, where it is often eaten during Iftar, the evening meal with which Muslims end their daily Ramadan fast at sunset. It is also a popular choice for parties and gatherings due to its easy preparation and convenient finger-food size.

Variations

While the traditional filling for sigara böreği is feta cheese and parsley, there are many variations of this dish. Some versions may include different types of cheese, such as kashkaval or mozzarella, or other fillings like minced meat, mashed potatoes, or various vegetables. There are also sweet versions of sigara böreği, filled with ingredients like cinnamon, sugar, and walnuts.

See Also

• Börek
• Turkish cuisine
• Ottoman cuisine
• Phyllo
• Yufka