Manti Madness: Turkish Dumplings with Garlic Yogurt and Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup water (more if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 pound ground beef (or lamb)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Dough

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack the egg into it. Gradually add the water while mixing with your hands or a spoon until a rough dough forms.
2. Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Rest: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period will make the dough easier to roll out.

Making the Filling

1. Prepare Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season: Add black pepper, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and salt to the meat mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Dumplings

1. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thinly as possible, to about 1/16-inch thickness.
2. Cut Circles: Using a round cutter or a glass, cut the dough into small circles, about 2 inches in diameter.
3. Fill and Fold: Place a small teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pinching the edges together to seal. Then, fold the edges together to form a small, pleated pouch.
4. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the manti into the boiling water in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the dough is tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Preparing the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Making the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

Serving

1. Plate the Dumplings: Arrange the cooked manti on a serving dish.
2. Top with Sauces: Spoon the tomato sauce over the dumplings, then drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce.
3. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for added flavor and color.
4. Serve Warm: Manti are best enjoyed warm, straight from the plate.

Overall, preparing manti might seem like a labor of love, but the end result is a deliciously satisfying dish that showcases the best of Turkish cuisine. With tender dumplings, rich tomato sauce, and creamy garlic yogurt, this recipe is perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a special family meal. Embrace the culinary adventure and delight in every bite of these exquisite Turkish dumplings.

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. We do our best to ensure accuracy, but ingredient and preparation variations can alter results. Please use caution and consult a medical professional if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns. The blog and its authors are not liable for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the recipes provided. Always prioritize your health and safety when cooking.