National Dish Turkmenistan: Borak (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Borak, one of Turkmenistan’s most beloved comfort foods — plump dumplings wrapped around a savoury filling and either fried until golden or baked to a gentle crisp. Endlessly adaptable, they can be stuffed with minced meat, fresh vegetables or a fragrant blend of spices. Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, borak carry the warmth of Turkmen hospitality straight from a busy market stall to your own table.
About Borak
Borak are a traditional dish from Turkmenistan, celebrated for their versatile fillings. These delicious dough parcels can be stuffed with a range of ingredients such as meat, vegetables or aromatic spices. Whether baked or fried, they are wonderfully straightforward to prepare and the result is always a treat. Borak are not only a popular street food but also play an important part in the self-reliant culture of Turkmenistan, where a well-made parcel of dough is a point of quiet pride.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g flour
- 150 ml water
- 1 tsp salt
- 500 g minced meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Spices: cumin, paprika and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for borak are easy to find in most supermarkets and Turkish grocery shops. Flour and meat are two of the most important components, so it is worth sourcing them in good quality. Fresh onions and spices give the dish its distinctive flavour. When shopping, look out for local produce to bring the aromas to their very best.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin shaping the borak, prepare the dough. Mix the flour with the salt, then add the water little by little until you have a smooth dough. Let it rest for around 30 minutes so it becomes more elastic. In the meantime, prepare the filling by thoroughly combining the minced meat, the onions and the spices — much the same starting point you would use for Manty.
Step-by-step instructions
- Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface.
- Cut the dough into circular pieces (about 10 cm across).
- Place a spoonful of filling on each piece of dough.
- Seal the edges of the parcels well, pressing them down with a fork if needed.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the borak until golden, or bake them in the oven at 180 °C.
- Serve the borak hot with yoghurt or a fresh salad.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
To make borak gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of classic wheat flour. For a lactose-free version, replace any butter or milk with vegetable oils or lactose-free products. Take care to choose lactose-free options for the fillings too, so that everyone at the table can enjoy the dish.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan borak, swap the minced meat for a mix of vegetables, pulses or tofu. Spices such as cumin and a pinch of chilli bring out that hearty, satisfying flavour beautifully. A filling of spinach and vegan cheese makes another lovely variation. So even plant-based eaters need not miss out on the pleasure of borak.
More tips and tricks
To make your borak even tastier, feel free to vary the filling. Adding feta or olives lends the parcels a Mediterranean flair. Briefly blanching the dumplings before frying can also boost their juiciness. A dash of lemon in the dough gives a fresh flavour and a lovely lift.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Tailor the recipe to your own preferences by changing up the filling. Instead of minced meat, you can use fish or seafood for an entirely different flavour. Different vegetables such as courgette or peppers can also turn your borak into something new. Be creative and experiment with different aromas and ingredients!
Ingredient substitutions
If you struggle to find certain ingredients, there are plenty of alternatives. Instead of minced beef, try chicken or a plant-based substitute. There are many flour options too, such as oat flour, which work just as well. Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce from your region — the same spirit of improvisation that shapes so much of Turkmen cuisine — and discover new flavour combinations!
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs wonderfully with savoury borak. A refreshing yoghurt drink with mint is a popular choice and harmonises perfectly with the dumplings — much like the classic Ayran. If you fancy something fruitier, try a pomegranate juice or a light rosé wine. For alcohol-free options, mint tea or a fruity lemonade both do the job nicely.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your borak can make a real impression. Serve the parcels on a large platter surrounded by fresh salad or colourful vegetables. A dip of yoghurt with garden herbs and a squeeze of lemon makes a great addition. Using traditional Turkmen plates can also give your dish an authentic touch.
A bit of history
Borak have a rich history and have been part of Turkmen cooking for centuries. Originally prepared by nomads, they were easy to carry and offered a reliable source of nourishment. To this day they are seen as a symbol of hospitality and are often served at feasts and special occasions. Their popularity has spread far beyond the borders of Turkmenistan and is enjoyed the world over.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Borak
In short, borak are a delicious and versatile dish that is wonderfully easy to make. With their wide range of fillings — hearty or vegan — they offer a taste experience for every palate. Thanks to all the ways you can adapt them, personalising the recipe and discovering new flavours is simple. Give them a try and let the cooking of Turkmenistan work its magic on you!
