Homemade Bourek with Potatoes and Minced Meat – Crispy & Comforting

By Lilo On May 21, 2025

Irresistible Bourek with Potatoes and Minced Meat: A Savory Delight

Bourek, a popular pastry enjoyed in North African, Middle Eastern, and Balkan cuisines, is known for its crisp layers and rich fillings. One of the most beloved versions features a combination of mashed potatoes and seasoned ground meat—perfectly satisfying, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Here’s how to make this comforting dish step by step.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

5 medium potatoes
300g ground beef
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

8 sheets of brick pastry
8 eggs
Frying oil (light vegetable or sunflower oil works well)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook and Mash the Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft.
Once cooked, drain and mash them in a large bowl.
Mix in chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Minced Meat Filling

In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped red onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Add ground beef to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and the liquid has evaporated.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Bourek

Place a sheet of brick pastry on a clean surface.
In the center of the sheet, layer a spoonful of mashed potatoes, followed by a spoonful of the meat mixture.
Crack an egg on top of the filling.
Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling to form a square or envelope shape, securing everything inside.
Repeat the process for each bourek.

4. Fry the Bourek

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
Gently place each bourek into the hot oil.
Fry until golden brown on both sides, turning carefully to ensure even cooking.
Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve bourek hot, optionally with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor. It pairs well with:

A simple green salad
A side of plain or garlic yogurt
Pickled vegetables or olives for contrast

This dish works great as a main course, a party appetizer, or even a filling snack.

Tips for Best Results

Handle pastry gently: Brick pastry is delicate and can tear if overfilled or moved too quickly.
Try different fillings: You can include crumbled feta, sautéed spinach, or even chopped olives for a unique twist.
Oven alternative: For a lighter version, bake the bourek at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crisp.

Bourek with potatoes and minced meat is a dish that balances creamy, hearty, and crispy elements in each bite. It’s easy to prepare and incredibly rewarding—whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests.