Sigara Böreği (Turkish Fried Cheese Pastry Rolls)

Sigara böreği are thin, crisp phyllo rolls filled with salty feta and parsley, named for their cigar-like shape. They come together fast and disappear even faster at the table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
• 1 egg yolk
• Black pepper, to taste
• 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
• 1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil, for brushing
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 egg white, for sealing

Instructions

1. Make the filling
   In a bowl, mash the feta and cream cheese together until mostly smooth. Stir in parsley, dill, egg yolk, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
2. Prepare the phyllo
   Cut phyllo sheets in half lengthwise to make long strips. Keep the strips covered with a damp towel so they don’t dry out.
3. Fill and roll
   Place a spoonful of filling near one short end of a strip. Fold the edges in, then roll tightly into a cigar shape, sealing the final edge with a dab of egg white.
4. Fry until golden
   Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry the rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown, 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain and serve
   Lift the rolls onto paper towels to drain briefly, then serve hot.

They’re best eaten within minutes of frying, while the phyllo is still crackling.