Description
Turkish cigars, also known as sigara böreği, are crispy, golden pastries made with thin sheets of yufka or phyllo dough rolled around a savory cheese filling. These bite-sized treats feature a delicious blend of feta and herbs, then are fried to golden perfection, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for parties and tea time.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 10 sheets phyllo dough or 5 large yufka triangles
Filling
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta or Turkish lor cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or mint (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly and Frying
- 1 egg white (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: If using phyllo dough, cut each sheet into 3 long strips to create narrow rectangles suitable for rolling.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta or lor cheese if using, chopped fresh parsley, optional dill or mint, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well integrated.
- Assemble the Cigars: Place a spoonful of the cheese filling near the bottom edge of each dough strip. Fold in the sides of the strip over the filling, then roll up tightly like a cigar to enclose the filling inside.
- Seal the Rolls: Brush the edge of the dough with egg white to seal the rolls securely, ensuring they don’t open during frying. Repeat with all dough strips and filling.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a frying pan and heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Cigars: Carefully add the rolled cigars in batches to the hot oil. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cigars with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm for best taste.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, brush the cigars with melted butter or oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden instead of frying.
- Serve with yogurt or dipping sauces such as garlic yogurt or spicy tomato chutney for added flavor.
- Using fresh herbs enhances the authentic taste, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to prevent the cigars from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy.
