The Fascinating Story of Burek

Discover why people around the world love burek! From its rich history to its unique appeal, learn why this delicious dish is enjoyed in so many places. Explore the history of burek, discover the reasons behind its popularity, and find out how to enjoy burek no matter where you are. Get ready to dig into the fascinating story of burek!

You can find burek recipes HERE.

 The History of Burek

Burek is a type of pastry that has been enjoyed for centuries. It originated in the Ottoman Empire, where it was popular among the lower classes as an economical meal. It is believed that the dish first appeared in the 15th century and spread throughout the Balkans, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

This flaky pastry is made with layers of dough filled with cheese, meat, spinach, or potatoes, and is often served with yogurt or sour cream. Burek has become so beloved that it is now considered to be a symbol of the Balkan region. The popularity of burek has spread across the globe, making it a favorite around the world.

The Appeal of Burek

Burek has a unique and delightful appeal to many food lovers. It’s flaky pastry crust, savory filling and crunchy texture make it the perfect snack or meal for any time of day. Depending on the region, Burek is filled with cheese, spinach and cheese, ground beef, apples, cherries and more. This variety of fillings allows for everyone to find something they love.

In some countries, Burek is served as a street food, while in others it is a traditional breakfast dish. The convenience of Burek also makes it an ideal snack choice.

Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, Burek offers a satisfying meal without having to put in too much effort. It's no wonder that Burek is loved by so many people around the world.

Burek with ground meat and a cup of plain yogurt

Enjoying Burek Around the World

Burek is a dish that has spread from its birthplace in the Balkans to many other countries in the world. The most common version is made with layers of phyllo dough, filled with cheese or meat, and baked in an oven. It is enjoyed in Turkey, where it is known as 'börek', as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Albania, and Serbia, to name a few.

In the United States, burek is commonly served at Mediterranean restaurants and can be found in many grocery stores and bakeries.

In Australia, the dish has been embraced by the large population of migrants from the Balkan states.

Here, burek is often served with a side of yogurt and enjoyed as an appetizer or snack. The popularity of burek has also crossed oceans and continents, reaching South America, where it is widely enjoyed in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Burek can even be found in some parts of Asia, particularly in the former Yugoslavian countries of Bosnia, Kosovo, and Macedonia.

Wherever it is served, burek remains a beloved dish, filled with flavor and nostalgia.

Its global reach is proof of how a single dish can bring people together and create a shared love for a tasty treat.