Patatesli Börek (Potato Börek) Recipe

Learn how to make authentic homemade Patatesli Börek with this easy baking recipe. Crispy phyllo sheets wrapped around a savory potato filling, seasoned with traditional Turkish spices. The best way to create flaky, golden pastry that's perfect for breakfast or as a satisfying snack!

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Prep Time:

45 mins

Cook Time:

35 mins

Serves:

8 slices

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">500g phyllo pastry sheets (yufka)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">600g potatoes, peeled and diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large onion, finely chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon ground cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">125ml olive oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60g butter, melted</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 egg, beaten</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">35cm round baking tray</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Pastry brush</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Potato masher</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Place the diced potatoes in a pot of cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a large mixing bowl. The potatoes must be completely drained to prevent your börek from becoming soggy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Mash the potatoes until smooth but still with some texture. Add the finely chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling the börek, as warm filling can make the phyllo pastry soggy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Preheat your oven to 180°C. Mix the melted butter and olive oil in a small bowl. This mixture will create the perfect balance of flavor and crispness in your pastry layers.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Lightly brush your baking tray with the oil-butter mixture to prevent sticking. Open your phyllo package and keep the sheets covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out while you work.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Lay one sheet of phyllo in the tray, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush generously with the oil-butter mixture. Layer another sheet on top at a slightly different angle to create a round shape, and brush again with the oil-butter mixture. Repeat this process with 3-4 more sheets, creating a base layer that will make your börek sturdy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Spread half of the potato filling evenly over the phyllo base, leaving about 2 cm around the edges. The filling should be spread in an even layer to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Cover with 2 more sheets of phyllo, brushing each with the oil-butter mixture. Add the remaining potato filling and spread evenly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each sheet with the oil-butter mixture. When you reach the final sheet, tuck in any overhanging edges to create a neat package. The tucking technique creates a seal that keeps the filling inside and gives your börek a beautiful presentation.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Score the top of the börek into 8 even slices using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through. Scoring before baking allows steam to escape and makes serving easier after baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. The egg wash creates a beautiful golden crust, while sesame seeds add both flavor and visual appeal.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4>Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the börek is golden brown and crispy. The layers should puff slightly, and you should see distinct separation between them—a sign of perfectly flaky pastry.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4>Allow the börek to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set and makes cutting cleaner. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience. Your Patatesli Börek is perfect alongside a dollop of yogurt or a fresh garden salad!</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Patatesli Börek?

Traditional Patatesli Börek requires phyllo pastry sheets (yufka), potatoes, onion, parsley, spices (salt, pepper, paprika, cumin), olive oil, butter, egg, and optional sesame seeds. These ingredients create the perfect balance of crispy exterior and flavourful potato filling.

How to cook Patatesli Börek at home?

Learn how to cook Patatesli Börek at home by layering oil-brushed phyllo sheets in a round baking tray, alternating with a seasoned potato filling. Score the top before baking at 180°C for 30-35 minutes until golden and flaky. Let it rest briefly before serving for the authentic taste of this beloved Turkish pastry.

Can I prepare börek ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, börek freezes excellently! You can either freeze it unbaked or baked. For unbaked, assemble completely then wrap tightly before freezing. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time. Alternatively, freeze baked slices and reheat in the oven for 10 minutes for a quick snack.

What are the secrets to achieving perfectly flaky layers in Turkish pastries?

The key to flaky börek layers is handling phyllo properly: keep sheets covered with a damp cloth while working, brush each layer generously with the oil-butter mixture, avoid overfilling, and ensure the filling is completely cool before assembly. Proper baking temperature is also crucial.

What are traditional accompaniments for Turkish börek?

Turkish börek is traditionally served with plain yoghurt (sometimes mixed with garlic or herbs), a fresh salad with lemon dressing, or pickled vegetables. A glass of Turkish tea (çay) or ayran (yoghurt drink) completes the authentic experience for this beloved everyday pastry.

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