Description
Sigara Boregi, also known as Turkish Cheese Rolls, are crispy and delicious appetizers made with phyllo dough stuffed with a savory cheese and herb filling. These elegant rolls can be either baked or fried to golden perfection, making them a versatile and flavorful snack or party finger food inspired by traditional Turkish cuisine.
Ingredients
Phyllo Dough
- 3 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing and cooking)
Cheese Filling
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 scallions, trimmed and chopped (both white and green parts)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (to mix in filling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven (if Baking): If you choose to bake the sigara boregi, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the middle of the oven.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped scallions, fresh parsley, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and mix everything thoroughly to create a flavorful, cohesive filling.
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Lay the thawed phyllo sheets flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut each sheet into 4 equal strips to form manageable pieces for rolling.
- Assemble Cheese Rolls: Take one strip of phyllo dough at a time and spoon approximately 1 ½ tablespoons of the cheese filling along the bottom edge closest to you. Leave some margin on both sides for expansion. Roll the strip tightly about 4 to 5 times away from you, tucking in the sides as you go, so the filling is fully encased in a neat, cigar-shaped roll. Repeat this process with all phyllo strips and filling. Brush the exterior of each roll with extra virgin olive oil to achieve a golden crispness during cooking.
- Cook the Sigara Boregi: Frying option: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry the rolls in batches, turning regularly until they become crispy and golden brown on all sides. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil before serving. Baking option: Arrange the rolls evenly in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Bake on the center rack of the oven for about 10 minutes, turning the rolls halfway through cooking, until they are crispy and golden brown on all sides.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked Sigara Boregi on a serving plate. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Phyllo dough is delicate and dries out quickly; keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while working.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- These rolls can be fried for a richer taste or baked for a lighter alternative.
- Serve with yogurt or a tangy dipping sauce to complement the crispy texture and savory filling.
- Ensure you roll tightly to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Turkish
