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Easy Balkan Burek with Meat Filling Recipe

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4.2 from 25 reviews

This Easy Burek Recipe is a traditional Balkan savory pastry filled with flavorful minced meat and onions, wrapped in crispy, flaky filo pastry. Perfect as a comforting meal or snack, it combines a well-seasoned meat filling with buttery, crunchy layers for an authentic taste of Balkan cuisine.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

Meat Filling

  • 1 ½ lbs minced beef or beef mix
  • 2 medium onions, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon Vegeta seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil for sautéing (or a mix of oil and a bit of butter for extra flavour)

Soaking Liquid

  • ½ cup hot water
  • ¼ cup oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Assembly

  • 1 pack filo pastry

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Filling: Heat oil or a mix of oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced meat and cook, stirring often, until browned and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Season with salt, Vegeta seasoning, and black pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Soaking Liquid: In a bowl, combine hot water, oil, and salt. Stir until the salt is dissolved. This mixture will be used to moisten the filo pastry during assembly, ensuring the burek stays tender and flaky.
  3. Assemble the Burek: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out one sheet of filo pastry and brush generously with the soaking liquid. Place another sheet on top and brush again. Spoon some meat filling along one edge of the stacked filo sheets, then carefully roll or fold the pastry into a cylinder or spiral shape, depending on your preferred style. Repeat the process until all the filling and pastry sheets are used.
  4. Bake the Burek: Place the assembled burek on a greased baking sheet or in a baking dish. Brush the top generously with the soaking liquid to promote golden browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is crisp and golden brown.
  5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the burek cool for a few minutes to set before slicing. Serve warm as a hearty meal or snack, enjoyed plain or with a side of yogurt or salad.

Notes

  • Vegeta seasoning is a popular Balkan blend of herbs and salt; if unavailable, substitute with a mix of garlic powder, celery salt, and dried herbs.
  • For extra richness, you can add a bit of butter to the soaking liquid instead of oil alone.
  • Handle filo pastry carefully as it is very delicate and dries out quickly; keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel.
  • You can substitute the meat with ground lamb or a mixture of beef and pork for variation.
  • Store leftover burek in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Savory Pastry
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Balkan

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/easy-balkan-burek-with-meat-filling-recipe/