Mantı (Turkish Dumplings)

mantı_(turkish_dumplings)

For those who are not familiar with Turkish cuisine, Mantı is a traditional Turkish dumpling that is a staple in the Turkish household. It is a dish that is loved by many across the country and rightfully so, as the taste and flavors of this dish are truly exceptional.

Mantı can be described as small, delicious dumplings that are filled with a spiced mixture of ground meat and onions. These delectable packages are cooked by boiling them in water, and then served with melted butter or a garlic and yogurt sauce. The dish is usually garnished with red pepper flakes, dried mint, and sumac, which give the dish an extra kick of flavor.

The origin of Mantı can be traced back to the Central Asian nomadic tribes who traveled to Anatolia during the Middle Ages, bringing with them their cooking traditions. Over time, it became an essential part of Turkish culinary culture and is now considered a national dish.

This recipe is a traditional one, with the filling made up of minced lamb or beef mixed with onions, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cumin. The dough for the dumplings is often handmade, with a simple mixture of flour, salt, and water giving it a soft and delicate texture.

Preparing Mantı can be a bit of a time-consuming process, but the end result is well worth the effort. The dough is rolled out and cut into small squares, which are then filled with the meat mixture and pinched closed to form a small, boat-like shape. These delicate little dumplings are then boiled in a flavorful broth of bone broth, onions, and spices until fully cooked.

The most important step of this recipe is the garlic-yogurt sauce that is drizzled over the top of the Mantı. This sauce adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish, making it even more delicious. Yogurt is mixed with crushed garlic, salt, and water to create a thick, creamy sauce that is poured over the top of the dish.

Once the Mantı is cooked, it is removed from the broth and plated into bowls. The garlic-yogurt sauce is then poured over the top, and the dish is garnished with red pepper flakes, dried mint, and sumac. The final result is a beautiful and fragrant dish that is bound to impress anyone who tries it.

In conclusion, Mantı is an exceptional Turkish dish that is loved by many all over the country. The recipe is a traditional one, with the filling made up of minced meat mixed with onions, spices, and the dough being handmade. The garlic-yogurt sauce is the finishing touch that takes this dish to another level. Overall, this dish is an experience in itself, and anyone willing to take the time to prepare it will be rewarded with a delicious and authentic Turkish meal.

Ingredients:

Dough:

  • 3 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1/2 tsp of salt

Filling:

  • 500g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp of tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp of red pepper paste
  • 1 tsp of salt

Topping:

  • 1 cup of plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp of butter
  • 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp of dried mint

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, egg, water, and salt. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion, tomato paste, red pepper paste, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut it into small, square pieces (about 2cm x 2cm). You can also use a pasta machine to roll out the dough.
  4. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each dough square. Fold the square in half to make a triangle and press the edges together to seal the dumpling. Repeat until all the dough and filling is used up.
  5. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the dumplings for 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
  6. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, then set aside.
  7. To serve, place the cooked dumplings in bowls and spoon yogurt over the top. Drizzle with the garlic butter and sprinkle with dried mint. Enjoy!