Byrek: Albanian Savory Pastry

 Recipe for 4 byrek
Ingredients:

• 400g phyllo dough (store-bought or homemade)

• 300g spinach (or 300g minced meat, lamb or beef)

• 200g feta cheese (or a similar cheese)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 egg (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the filling:

   • If using spinach: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan, sauté the onion until soft, then add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat, mix in the crumbled feta, and season with salt and pepper.

   • If using minced meat: Brown the meat in a pan with olive oil, add the onion, cook until softened, and season with salt and pepper. Let it cool.

2. Assemble the Byrek:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

   • Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a baking tray and brush with olive oil. Layer 4-5 sheets, brushing each with oil.

   • Add a layer of the filling (spinach or meat) evenly over the dough.

   • Continue layering more sheets of phyllo dough and filling, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a few layers of phyllo dough on top.

3. Bake:

   • Brush the top layer of dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve:
   Let it cool slightly before cutting into slices and serving. Enjoy your delicious Byrek!