Burek (Bosnian Meat Pie) Recipe

Introduction

Burek is a beloved Bosnian meat pie made with seasoned ground beef and onions, wrapped in thin, flaky dough. This savory pastry is a staple of Bosnian cuisine and is enjoyed at any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Follow this comprehensive guide to make authentic Bosnian burek at home.

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lbs) all-purpose flour
• 250ml (1 cup) lukewarm water
• 1 tsp salt (for dough)
• 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio preferred)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 1.5 tsp salt (for filling)
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 60ml (1/4 cup) sunflower oil (plus extra for brushing)
• Butter, melted (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing until a soft, elastic dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onions, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning. Set aside until ready to assemble.

Step 3: Stretch the Dough

Divide the rested dough into two equal balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one ball as thinly as possible. Transfer it to a clean tablecloth, brush with sunflower oil, and gently stretch the dough with your hands until it is paper-thin and nearly transparent.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Evenly distribute half of the meat filling along one long edge of the stretched dough. Drizzle a little oil over the filling for added moisture. Carefully roll the dough over the filling, using the tablecloth to help form a tight log.

Step 5: Shape the Burek

Coil the filled dough log into a spiral shape and place it in the center of a greased round baking pan. Repeat the stretching, filling, and rolling process with the second dough ball and the remaining filling, then coil it around the first spiral in the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Burek

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Brush the top of the burek generously with sunflower oil or melted butter for a golden crust. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the burek from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm. Burek pairs perfectly with plain yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions & Tips

• For extra flavor, brush the baked burek with melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
• Serve with a glass of cold yogurt or kefir for a traditional Bosnian experience.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispiness.
• Try different fillings such as cheese, spinach, or potatoes for variety.

How to Serve Burek: Delicious Ideas

• Traditional Pairings: Burek is most commonly served with a bowl of plain yogurt or kefir, which balances the richness of the pastry and filling. In Bosnia, it’s typical to dip each bite into the yogurt for a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Fresh Sides: Accompany burek with a simple cucumber and tomato salad, lightly dressed with olive oil and vinegar. The freshness of the salad cuts through the savory flavors of the pie.
• On-the-Go Snack: Burek is a popular street food and can be enjoyed as a handheld snack. Wrap slices in parchment paper for easy eating on the move.
• Brunch or Breakfast: Serve burek alongside hard-boiled eggs, olives, and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast or brunch spread.
• With Soup: Pair burek with a light vegetable or chicken soup for a comforting lunch or dinner.
• Reheating: To enjoy leftover burek, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle burek with freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of sumac for a burst of color and flavor before serving.