Description
Turkish Cigars, also known as Sigara Böreği, are crispy phyllo dough rolls filled with a creamy blend of feta, ricotta or lor cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these savory treats can be baked or fried to golden perfection, delivering a delightful combination of flaky texture and rich cheesy flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta or Turkish lor cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (lightly beaten, divided)
Dough
- 12 sheets phyllo dough (thawed)
- 1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)
For Frying (optional)
- Vegetable oil (about 1 inch, for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta (or lor), chopped parsley, black pepper, and half of the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Set aside the remaining beaten egg for sealing the dough.
- Prepare the phyllo dough: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, flat surface and brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter or oil.
- Cut the dough: Cut the stacked sheets into 3 or 4 equal rectangular pieces, depending on the size of your phyllo sheets.
- Fill and roll: Place a small spoonful of the cheese filling near one short end of each rectangle. Fold the sides inward slightly and then roll tightly from the filled end, shaping it like a cigar. Seal the edge with a dab of the remaining beaten egg to ensure it stays closed during cooking.
- Cooking options: To bake, arrange the cigars on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush the tops with additional butter or olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp. To fry, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the cigars in batches, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the Turkish Cigars warm as an appetizer or snack, enjoying their crisp texture and savory filling.
Notes
- Keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
- For variation, consider adding chopped spinach or fresh mint to the cheese filling for extra flavor.
- The cigars can be baked or fried according to your preference for a healthier or crispier result.
- Ensure the oil for frying is at medium heat to avoid greasy cigars.
