Delicious burek, favorite homemade meal in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The land of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a unique mixture of different cultures and civilizations.

Traditional food in Bosnia and Herzegovina is often prepared with meat, and meals are plentiful and delicious. The meat is of extraordinary quality, often organic, and well prepared. Meat is the ingredient of some of the most popular Bosnian dishes such as Bosnian pot, ćevapi, Bey soup, burek, and bean soup.

Burek – The Beloved Balkan Pastry

One of the most beloved and traditional meals across the Balkans is burek, a delicious, flaky meat-filled pastry. It is traditionally rolled into a spiral shape and then cut into sections for serving. This dish is highly versatile, making it perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. Whether eaten fresh out of the oven or reheated later, burek never fails to satisfy.

What Makes Burek Special?

Burek has been a staple dish in the Balkan region for centuries, originating from the Ottoman Empire. While meat-filled burek is the most popular variation, there are also spinach (zeljanica), cheese (sirnica), and potato (krompiruša) versions. However, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the name “burek” strictly refers to the meat-filled version, while other variations have their own names.

How to Make Traditional Burek

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Plain flour
• Salt
• Water
• Vegetable oil

For the Meat Filling:

• Cooking oil
• Onions (finely chopped)
• Beef mince (or a mix of beef and lamb for extra flavor)
• Potato (finely grated or diced, optional)
• Garlic (minced)
• Rosemary (fresh or dried)
• Smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Meat Filling

1. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced beef and cook while stirring constantly.
4. Once the meat starts browning, mix in the potato, garlic, rosemary, and paprika.
5. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the beef is fully cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the meat mixture to a fine sieve placed over a bowl or the sink to drain any excess liquid.
8. Press gently with the back of a spoon to speed up draining. The filling must be dry and fully cooled before assembling the burek.

2. Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water, mixing with your hands until the dough starts coming together. You might not need all the water.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into four portions and flatten each piece to about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick.

3. Assembling the Burek

1. Unroll phyllo pastry and stack two sheets on a flat surface.
2. Spoon 1/8 of the meat mixture along one long edge of the phyllo.
3. Roll the phyllo into a tight tube, encasing the beef mixture completely.
4. Shape the tube into a coiled (snail) shape.
5. Place the roll onto an ungreased baking sheet and brush it with melted butter.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and meat filling, placing each finished coil next to the others to prevent them from unrolling.

4. Baking the Burek

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
2. Bake the burek rolls for 20 to 30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
3. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving and Enjoying Burek

Freshly baked burek is best served warm, accompanied by a side of sour cream, yogurt, or ajvar. Some people also enjoy it with a simple tomato and cucumber salad or a glass of cold kefir.

Where to Eat the Best Burek in Mostar?

Mostar is home to many bakeries and restaurants that specialize in traditional burek and other Balkan pastries. Whether you’re visiting a local pekara (bakery) or a family-run restaurant, you will find freshly made burek with its signature crispy crust and flavorful filling.

For a list of the best places to try authentic burek in Mostar, check out our Gastronomy section, where we highlight the top spots for traditional Balkan cuisine.

In case you have missed it, read our previous post – Best Traditional Meals in Mostar.