Savory Potato Borekas with Haminados Eggs
These delightful savory pastries, known as Borekas, are a beloved street food in Israel, often found stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings. The Potato Borekas feature a rich mixture of mashed potatoes and caramelized onions, optionally enhanced with crumbled feta cheese, all enveloped in a flaky puff pastry that crisps up beautifully in the oven. The preparation of these Borekas is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create an irresistible bite. Typically served warm or at room temperature, they are often accompanied by Haminados eggs, which are traditionally infused with aromatic onion peels and a touch of coffee, giving them a unique hue and flavor. Ideal for snacking, appetizers, or alongside a fresh salad, these Borekas are sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy them with a dollop of tahini, pickles, or fresh tomatoes, and dive into a taste of Israeli culinary culture.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion
1 medium (thinly sliced)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tablespoon
Potatoes
2 medium (boiled and mashed)
Salt
to taste
Black Pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Feta Cheese
3-4 tablespoons (crumbled (optional))
Puff Pastry
13 ounces (preferably fresh or frozen)
Egg Yolk
1 (beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Sesame Seeds
2 tablespoons
Eggs
6
Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon
Salt
1 teaspoon
Pepper
1 teaspoon
Dried Onion Peels
as needed
Ground Coffee
1-2 tablespoons (optional)
Instant Coffee
1-2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the Haminados eggs. In a medium pot, place the eggs and cover them with water. Add the vegetable oil, salt, pepper, dried onion peels, and coffee grounds (if using). Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and allow to simmer gently. While they will be ready in about an hour, for optimal flavor, leave them on low heat overnight.
2
In a skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté until lightly golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3
In a large bowl, combine the boiled and mashed potatoes with the sautéed onions. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, add crumbled feta cheese for an extra creamy texture, and mix well. Set aside to cool.
4
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the pastry into 6 equal squares.
6
Divide the potato filling into 6 equal portions. Place one portion in the center of each square, then fold the pastry over to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly to seal and ensure no filling escapes. Brush the tops of the Borekas with the beaten egg yolk mixed with a tablespoon of water, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7
Place the Borekas on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on top. Check the bottoms for a desirable browning as well.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside the Haminados eggs for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Potato Borekas?
Savory Potato Borekas are popular Israeli street food pastries made with puff pastry and a mashed potato and caramelized onion filling.
What are Haminados eggs?
Haminados eggs are traditional slow-cooked eggs infused with onion peels and coffee, giving them a unique brown color and rich flavor.
How long do the borekas need to bake?
Borekas should be baked for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C) for baking these pastries.
Can I add cheese to the potato filling?
Yes, you can add 3-4 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese to the potato mixture for extra creaminess.
What kind of pastry is best for borekas?
This recipe calls for 13 ounces of puff pastry, which can be fresh or frozen.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Fold the pastry into triangles and press the edges firmly to seal the potato mixture inside.
Why are dried onion peels used in the egg water?
The onion peels provide the Haminados eggs with their characteristic deep hue and aromatic flavor.
Is coffee mandatory for the Haminados eggs?
No, adding ground or instant coffee is optional, but it enhances the flavor and color of the eggs.
How long should Haminados eggs be cooked?
While they are ready in about an hour, they are best when left on low heat overnight for optimal flavor.
What should I serve with Potato Borekas?
They are traditionally served with Haminados eggs, tahini, pickles, or fresh tomatoes.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, these Potato Borekas and Haminados eggs are suitable for vegetarians.
How do I prepare the potato filling?
Boil and mash two medium potatoes, then mix them with sautéed onions, salt, and black pepper.
What gives the borekas their golden shine?
The tops of the borekas are brushed with an egg yolk beaten with a tablespoon of water before baking.
How many borekas does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 6 equal-sized savory borekas.
Should the filling be hot when added to the pastry?
No, it is best to let the potato and onion mixture cool before placing it on the puff pastry.
How thick should I roll the puff pastry?
The puff pastry should be rolled out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Can I use different seeds for the topping?
The recipe suggests sesame seeds, but you could use other seeds if preferred.
What type of oil is used for sautéing the onions?
Extra virgin olive oil is used to sauté the onions until they are golden and fragrant.
Can I make the eggs without vegetable oil?
The recipe includes a tablespoon of vegetable oil in the egg water to help achieve the desired texture and finish.
Do I need to flour the surface when rolling pastry?
Yes, a lightly floured surface prevents the puff pastry from sticking as you roll it out.
What shape are these borekas?
The squares are folded over the filling to form a triangle shape.
Can I use instant coffee instead of ground coffee?
Yes, both ground coffee and instant coffee are listed as optional ingredients for the eggs.
Are borekas served hot or cold?
They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
What is the role of salt and pepper in the eggs?
One teaspoon each of salt and pepper is added to the simmering water to season the eggs.
Can I skip the onion sautéing step?
Sautéing the onions is recommended as it adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that defines the filling.
How many eggs are prepared for the Haminados?
The recipe calls for 6 eggs to be prepared using the slow-cooking method.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a medium pot for the eggs, a skillet for the onions, a large mixing bowl, and a lined baking sheet.
Is the potato filling chunky or smooth?
The potatoes should be mashed, and when combined with sliced sautéed onions, it creates a rich, textured mixture.
Can I store leftover borekas?
Yes, they can be stored in the refrigerator and are best reheated in the oven to stay crispy.