Sigara Böreği
TurkishSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Sigara Böreği, meaning "cigarette pastry," is one of Turkey's most popular meze and snack items. These slender, cigar-shaped pastries feature paper-thin yufka dough wrapped around a savory filling of crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, and dill. The pastries are then deep-fried until beautifully golden and crispy on the outside while maintaining a warm, creamy interior. Traditionally served hot with a squeeze of lemon, these börek are perfect for any gathering, from casual tea time to festive celebrations. The contrast between the shatteringly crisp exterior and the soft, flavorful cheese filling makes them irresistible. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger spread, Sigara Böreği represents the art of Turkish pastry-making at its finest.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese finely with a fork. Add chopped parsley, dill, and black pepper. Mix well until combined. If the mixture is too dry, add 1 beaten egg to bind the filling.

  2. Cut the tortillas into strips approximately 4 inches wide and 6 inches long. You can also use phyllo dough or yufka if available.

  3. Place one tortilla strip on a clean work surface. Put 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling along one short edge, leaving about 1 inch from the edges.

  4. Fold the sides inward over the filling, then roll tightly from the filled end to create a cigar shape. Seal the edge with a mixture of flour and water paste.

  5. Repeat with remaining tortilla strips and filling until all ingredients are used.

  6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 2 inches deep.

  7. Carefully place 3-4 börek into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

  8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Sigara Böreği

4.2 (38)

Crispy Turkish cigarette-shaped pastries filled with tangy feta cheese and fresh herbs, deep-fried to golden perfection. These delightful finger foods are a beloved snack across Turkey.

medium
40 min
6 servings

Ingredients

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Filling

  • 300 grams cheese-feta, crumbled
  • 4 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 pieces eggs, beaten (optional)

Wrapper

  • 12 pieces tortillas, cut into strips

Sealing

  • 2 tablespoons flour, mixed with water

Frying

  • 4 cups vegetable-oil, for deep frying

Serving

  • 2 pieces lemon, cut into wedges

Chef Tips

expert advice
For best results, ensure the oil temperature is consistent at 350°F to achieve perfectly crispy börek without absorbing excess oil.
If using phyllo dough instead of tortillas, use 2-3 layers per börek and brush with melted butter between layers for extra flakiness.
You can prepare the börek ahead of time and freeze them uncooked; fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.
Experiment with fillings by adding crumbled cooked spinach, minced onions, or ground meat for variation.
The key to perfect Sigara Böreği is rolling them tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
Serve with Turkish tea and a side of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers for an authentic experience.