Potato Bourekas are a beloved staple in Israeli cuisine, embodying the essence of comfort food with their flaky pastry and savory filling. Originating from the Sephardic Jewish communities, these delightful pastries have become a popular street food and home-cooked treat in Israel. They’re best served warm as an appetizer or snack during Shabbat or festive gatherings. Pair them with a fresh Israeli salad or a side of tahini for a complete experience. The art of making bourekas is not only in the filling but also in achieving the perfect flaky pastry, a technique shared with other pastries like the classic phyllo dough baklava.

Potato Bourekas are a beloved staple in Israeli cuisine, embodying the essence of comfort food with their flaky pastry and savory filling. Originating from the Sephardic Jewish communities, these delightful pastries have become a popular street food and home-cooked treat in Israel. They’re best served warm as an appetizer or snack during Shabbat or festive gatherings. Pair them with a fresh Israeli salad or a side of tahini for a complete experience. The art of making bourekas is not only in the filling but also in achieving the perfect flaky pastry, a technique shared with other pastries like the classic phyllo dough baklava.
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain and mash them in a large bowl.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Combine the sautéed onions with the mashed potatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares of about 4x4 inches.
- Place a tablespoon of the potato filling in the center of each square. Fold over to create a triangle and press the edges to seal.
- Place the bourekas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with a little olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Notes
For variation, add some crumbled feta cheese or a pinch of cumin to the filling. Store leftover bourekas in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.
Nutrition Facts
8 servings per recipe
Serving size
1 serving
Calories
220
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 10g
13%
Saturated Fat 3g
15%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 10mg
3%
Sodium 300mg
13%
Dietary Fiber 2g
7%
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 4g
8%
