If you love flaky, savory bites that pack a punch of cheesy goodness, the Turkish Cigars Recipe is an absolute must-try. These delicate rolls, wrapped in crisp phyllo dough and filled with a luscious mix of feta, ricotta, and fresh herbs, bring the best of Turkish flavors right to your table. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, these golden cigars are irresistible appetizers that will wow your friends and family and keep everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you make this Turkish Cigars Recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crispy textures. Every element plays a vital role, from the flaky phyllo sheets to the fresh parsley that brightens up the filling.
- Phyllo dough (12 sheets, thawed): The light, flaky exterior that crisps up beautifully when baked or fried.
- Feta cheese (1 cup, crumbled): Adds a salty tang that’s signature to Turkish pastries.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Brings creamy softness, balancing the feta’s sharpness perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Injects a fresh herbaceous note that lifts the flavors.
- Egg yolk (1): Acts as a binding agent to hold the filling together.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick of warmth.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, plus more for brushing): Keeps the filling moist and helps the phyllo turn golden and crisp.
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking: Ensures a perfectly crisp finish, whichever cooking method you prefer.
How to Make Turkish Cigars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the filling
Begin by combining the crumbled feta, creamy ricotta, finely chopped parsley, egg yolk, black pepper, and olive oil in a mixing bowl. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, well-incorporated mixture that holds together but is still soft and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the phyllo strips
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough flat on your clean work surface. Generously brush it with olive oil to help it crisp up beautifully during cooking. Then, cut the sheet lengthwise into three equal strips. These long, slender strips will become the perfect wrapper for your filling.
Step 3: Assemble the cigars
Place about one tablespoon of the cheese filling near the bottom edge of each phyllo strip. Carefully fold the sides over the filling, then roll the strip tightly like a cigar. Repeat this process with all the phyllo sheets and filling, making sure each roll is snug and well sealed to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
Step 4: Cook until golden
You have two wonderful choices here. To pan-fry, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the cigars for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are gloriously golden and crisp. Alternatively, to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet, place the cigars on it, and either spray or brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they’re perfectly golden and flaky. Both methods yield delicious results, so the choice is yours!
How to Serve Turkish Cigars Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these Turkish Cigars with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more. You can also add a dollop of tangy yogurt or a spicy tomato dip on the side for extra excitement.
Side Dishes
These savory bites pair wonderfully with simple side salads like a cucumber and tomato salad tossed with dill, or an arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Light and fresh sides provide a perfect balance to the rich, crispy cigars.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive appetizer platter, arrange your Turkish Cigars vertically in a circular pattern on a large plate with dips in the center for easy sharing. Alternatively, skewer a couple of cigars with fresh herbs for a charming finger-food presentation at parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Turkish Cigars in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture; store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, reheat them to bring back their signature crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared but uncooked cigars by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to a month and are perfect for when you want a quick snack or appetizer on hand.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the cigars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the phyllo soggy and lose that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I make the Turkish Cigars Recipe gluten-free?
Traditional phyllo dough contains gluten, so if you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free phyllo or try using thin rice paper wrappers. Keep in mind the texture may vary, but the filling will still deliver on flavor.
Is it necessary to use both feta and ricotta cheeses?
Using both cheeses creates a perfectly balanced filling with the tang of feta and the creaminess of ricotta. However, if you only have one on hand, just using feta or ricotta with a little extra olive oil can still work well.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or stirring in chopped spinach for extra greens, can make these cigars your own unique creation while keeping the authentic soul of the recipe.
What’s the best oil for frying Turkish Cigars?
Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying. This ensures the cigars crisp up nicely without absorbing too much oil or burning.
Are Turkish Cigars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they are a fantastic vegetarian appetizer since the filling relies on cheese and herbs. Just make sure any dips or sides you serve alongside are vegetarian-friendly as well.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Turkish Cigars Recipe enough — they’re genuinely one of those dishes that bring people together with every bite. Crispy, cheesy, and infused with fresh herbs, these little gems are surprisingly easy to make and endlessly versatile. Whether for a casual snack or a festive occasion, give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Turkish Cigars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cigars
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Turkish Cigars, also known as Sigara Böreği, are crispy, golden phyllo dough rolls filled with a savory blend of feta, ricotta, and fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these delightful pastries can be either baked or fried to achieve a deliciously crisp texture. They are easy to prepare and offer a flavorful taste of traditional Turkish cuisine with a vegetarian twist.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Phyllo & Cooking
- 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- Olive oil for brushing phyllo
- Oil for frying (if pan-frying) or cooking spray (if baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, egg yolk, ground black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated to create a smooth, flavorful filling.
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Lay one sheet of thawed phyllo dough flat on a clean work surface. Lightly brush the surface with olive oil to keep it moist and prevent cracking. Cut the sheet lengthwise into three equal strips.
- Assemble the Cigars: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling near the bottom edge of each phyllo strip. Fold the sides over the filling and then tightly roll the strip upwards like a cigar shape, ensuring the filling is sealed inside. Repeat this process with the remaining sheets and filling.
- Option 1 – Frying: Heat enough oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry the cigars for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
- Option 2 – Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled cigars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil to promote crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Serving: Serve the Turkish Cigars warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair well with a fresh salad or a tangy dipping sauce.
Notes
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Substitute chopped spinach in the filling for extra greens and nutrients.
- These cigars freeze well before cooking, making them perfect for make-ahead appetizers.
- Ensure phyllo sheets are covered with a damp cloth when working to prevent drying out.
