Crispy Mediterranean Beef Bourek Rolls with Spiced Pumpkin Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy yet high-protein combo, these Crispy Mediterranean Beef Bourek Rolls paired with a velvety Spiced Pumpkin Soup are it!

Inspired by classic Mediterranean bourek, ground beef is seasoned with warm cinnamon, cumin, and paprika, folded into rice paper with melted cheese, and baked until ultra-crispy. Dip them straight into a rich, aromatic pumpkin soup infused with garlic, ginger, and subtle spices for a comforting meal that feels high-end with minimal effort.

Prep time, Cook time, Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Yield: 3 servings (6 bourek rolls + soup)

Ingredients

For the Crispy Beef Bourek Rolls

• ½ lb (225g) lean ground beef

• ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 6 sheet rice paper wrappers

• 2 eggs (whisked, for dipping the rice paper)

• some milk (3tbs)

• 6 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese

• 1 tsp nigella seeds or black sesame seeds (for topping)

• Spices: ½ tsp cumin, ¼ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp paprika, salt, & black pepper

For the Spiced Pumpkin Soup

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (canned or fresh)

• 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped

• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 big potato

• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• Spices: ½ tsp cumin, ¼ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp ground ginger, salt, & black pepper

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Filling 🥩

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced yellow onion until translucent, then add the ground beef. Season with cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until browned, then stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble & Bake the Bourek Rolls 🌯

Whisk the eggs and the milk in a shallow dish. Dip a sheet of rice paper into the egg wash until coated and slightly softened. Lay it flat, place a slice of cheese near one edge, top with a spoonful of the warm beef mixture, and fold the sides over to roll tightly like a spring roll. Repeat for all 6 rolls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with black seeds, and bake at 390°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Make the Pumpkin Soup 🎃

In a medium pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft. Add the tomato paste, pumpkin purée, the potato, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1–2 minutes, then pour in the broth. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.

4. Blend until Smooth 🌪️

Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a high-speed blender) to process the soup until completely smooth, thick, and velvety.

5. Serve & Dip ✨

Ladle the warm spiced pumpkin soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve alongside the golden, crispy beef bourek rolls for dipping!

📊 Estimated Macros (Per Serving - 2 Rolls + 1 Bowl Soup)