Turkish Cheese Phyllo Rolls

This hearty Turkish cheese roll recipe, known as Sigara Boregi, has been my go-to appetizer whenever I host dinner parties. The crispy exterior paired with the creamy, salty cheese filling creates an irresistible combination that disappears within minutes of serving.

I first made these cheese rolls for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, and they were such a hit that my friends now specifically request them whenever they visit. The process of rolling them is surprisingly therapeutic too.

Ingredients

• Feta cheese: Crumbled, adds the perfect salty tanginess essential to authentic flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: Grated, balances the feta with its mild creaminess and adds that irresistible stretch
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, brightens the cheese mixture with color and a fresh herbal note
• Phyllo sheets: Need to be completely thawed for easy handling without tearing
• Water: For brushing, helps seal the rolls without adding extra calories
• Oil: For frying, creates that signature crispy exterior that makes these rolls unforgettable

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the phyllo dough:

Remove the phyllo from the freezer about 2-3 hours before you plan to make the boregi. This slow thawing prevents the delicate sheets from becoming soggy or tearing easily. Once thawed, keep the sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel at all times to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle during the rolling process.

Mix the cheese filling:

In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese with the grated mozzarella. Add the freshly chopped parsley and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mozzarella provides stretch while the feta delivers authentic flavor, creating the perfect balance of textures and tastes that makes these rolls so addictive.

Prepare the phyllo sheets:

Place one sheet of phyllo on a clean, flat surface. Quickly brush it with water using light strokes to avoid tearing. Immediately place a second sheet directly on top and brush that one with water as well. The water helps the sheets stick together, making them stronger and easier to roll. Using a sharp knife, cut the stacked sheets into four equal squares. Always keep unused phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.

Form the cheese rolls:

Position a phyllo square in a diamond orientation with one point facing you. Place approximately 1½ tablespoons of the cheese mixture near the bottom point, leaving a small border. Fold the bottom point over the filling, then fold both side points inward over the first fold. Gently roll upward, keeping the roll tight but being careful not to tear the dough. Brush the top point with water to seal the roll completely. Set aside and repeat with remaining phyllo squares.

Fry to golden perfection:

Heat approximately 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F. Carefully drop several rolls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until every side achieves a beautiful golden brown color. The outside should be crispy while protecting the melted cheese inside. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

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My favorite part of making these cheese rolls is the moment when I take that first bite after frying them. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the molten cheese interior is absolutely magical. I remember serving these at my sister's engagement party where even the pickiest eaters couldn't resist coming back for seconds and thirds.

Make-Ahead Options

These cheese rolls are perfect for entertaining because you can prepare them completely up to 24 hours before your event. Simply roll the boregi as directed, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, fry them directly from the refrigerator, adding about 1 minute to the frying time. This advance preparation makes them ideal for parties when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.

Serving Suggestions

In Turkey, Sigara Boregi is traditionally served as part of a meze spread alongside other small plates. For an authentic experience, serve these crispy cheese rolls with a simple yogurt dip made from Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and fresh dill. They pair beautifully with a glass of raki, the anise-flavored Turkish spirit, or a crisp white wine. For a full Turkish-inspired meal, serve alongside kofte, stuffed grape leaves, and a fresh shepherd's salad.

Healthier Variations

While traditionally fried, these cheese rolls can be baked for a lighter version. Preheat your oven to 375°F, place the prepared rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy. You can also experiment with the filling by adding spinach for a nutrient boost or using lower-fat cheese options. The flavor profile remains delicious while reducing some of the calories from the traditional fried version.

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These Sigara Boregi cheese rolls will delight your guests and transport them straight to the heart of Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can Sigara Boregi be baked instead of fried?

Yes, Sigara Boregi can be baked instead of fried for a healthier version. Brush them lightly with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through.

→ How far in advance can I prepare Sigara Boregi?

You can prepare and roll the Sigara Boregi up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered with a damp cloth in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Fry them just before serving for the best texture and taste.

→ What can I serve with Turkish cheese rolls?

These rolls are delicious served with tzatziki, yogurt dip, or sweet chili sauce. They're traditionally part of a meze platter alongside olives, hummus, and other small dishes, but also make great appetizers on their own.

→ Can I freeze Sigara Boregi?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked rolls, place them on a baking sheet without touching, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. To freeze after cooking, cool completely, then freeze. Reheat frozen cooked rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and crispy.

→ What cheese can I substitute for feta or mozzarella?

You can substitute the feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a similar tangy flavor. For mozzarella, any mild, melting cheese like monterey jack, provolone, or kashar (a Turkish cheese) would work well. The key is balancing a salty, crumbly cheese with a mild, melting variety.

→ How do I prevent phyllo dough from drying out?

Always keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a damp (not wet) kitchen towel while working. Work quickly but carefully, and only remove one sheet at a time from under the towel. The moisture from the damp towel helps prevent the delicate sheets from becoming brittle.