Have you recently read about Turkish manti or may be you had a chance to taste it? If you want to know more about how it is made and what is used to make it, then you are in the right place. In this guide, you will learn how to cook manti in the most authentic way. It may sound impossible, but even if you have never cooked anything in your life, you will enjoy making these delicious dumplings.
Let’s get started!
What is Turkish Manti?
Turkish manti, which is also pronounced ‘man-TEE’. They are diminutive steamed dumplings that can be considered as an exotic cousin of ravioli. Minced lamb or beef with spices and onion is the common filling in the manti. The dough is thin, supple and cut into squares and circular pieces. Then each piece is stuffed with a mixture of corned beef and is pleated into a tiny purse shape.
And these very dumplings are the ones that are usually steamed or boiled afterwards. The outcome is this delightfully tender dish that perfectly fits into the definition of a one course meal in the Turkish kitchen.
Really fascinating is the history of Turkish Manti. According to historians these dumplings are said to have been from Central Asia and later were brought to Turkey by migrating Turks. The travelling gave room for improvement and modification to the dish until it became the standard Manti.
Today, Manti is a practice that every day is practiced by Turks in their homes or in restaurants. They are usually accompanied by yogurt, garlic and hot sauce. The changing tastes and the sentiments in the dish also makes Manti a remarkable dish to top out the meal.
Ingredients for Turkish Manti
Turkish Manti, a savory delight, is made with simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients for Turkish Manti Dough Recipe:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 beaten egg
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 8 ounces ground beef or lamb
- 1 grated or finely minced onion
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Ingredients for the Garlic Yogurt:
- 16 ounces plain yogurt
- 2-3 minced or grated garlic cloves
- Salt to taste
Ingredients for the Spiced Oil:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Turkish red pepper paste or double concentrated tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried mint
- 1 teaspoon sumac
How to Prepare Turkish Manti
Follow these steps to make best Manti at home:
1. Prepare the Dough
- Combine ingredients: With this ratio 2 ½ cups (300 grams) all purpose flour, 1 tsp sea salt, beat these in a large wide bowl. In the middle, mold a formation similar to a well and put into it 1 beaten egg, ½ cup (120grams) water and 2 tbspoons extra virgin olive oil. Beat till mixed and a dough like mass is formed.
- Knead and rest: Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 3-4mn until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover it with a plastic foil and allow the dough to stand for thirty minutes inside the refrigerator.
2. Next, Filling and Garlic Yogurt
- Make the filling: Form a mixture by mixing 8 ounces of ground beef or lamb with 1 onion that is grated or finely chopped. Season with salt and black Pepper. Cover and set aside.
- Prepare the garlic yogurt: Mix 16 ounce of plain yogurt with 2-3 garlic cloves which have been minced. Those, you get to apply some salt and allow to stand at room temperature.
3. Now, Shape the Manti
- Prepare the baking sheet: That way the potatoes would not stick to the baking pan, so lightly grease a large baking sheet with olive oil and warm the baking oven to 350 °F (175°C).
- Roll and cut the dough: Knead the dough as many times as possible then divide it into three equal parts. Place; Roll each piece into a thin sheet and should not be more than 12 inches by 10 inches. Cut into 1-inch squares.
- Add the filling: Put a tablespoon of the filling at the centre of each square. Fold in the corners towards the centre and flatten them evenly to make a small pocket like shape. Practice this way until finishing all the dough and the filling.
4. Time to Cook the Manti
- Par-bake: Place manti into the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the manti has a golden brown color. Let them cool slightly.
- Boil: In a large pot, boil water with salt added into it. Place the par-baked manti in the pot and turn the heat on low and allow them to cook for 8-10 minutes or until they float on the surface of the water. Empty the pot and turn the pasta a little bit of olive oil so that they would not stick to each other.
5. In last, Finish and Serve
- Prepare the spiced oil: Pour ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil into a pan and heat them. Bucket Additional information of a tablespoon of pepper paste or tomato paste, a teaspoon of Aleppo pepper, two teaspoons of dried mint, a teaspoon of ground sumac. Stir and continue to cook for about one minute of simmering.
- Serve: Strew the manti on a warm dish. Place the garlic yogurt over them and then pour the spiced oil over them. You can also add extra mint and sumac, to your desire.
Turkish Manti vs. Other Dumplings
Dumplings are loved all over the world, but they come in many forms. One kind that’s getting more attention is Turkish manti. So, how are Turkish manti different from other dumplings?
Size and Shape
Turkish manti are tiny—each one is about the size of a pea. They look like little ravioli with thin dough wrapped around a savory filling. In contrast, other dumplings, like Chinese dumplings or Italian ravioli, are usually much bigger. For example, Chinese dumplings can be as large as 3 inches wide.
Filling
Turkish manti have a yummy filling made of ground meat (like lamb or beef), onions, and spices. Some people like to add sumac or paprika for a special flavor. Other dumplings can have all kinds of fillings. Chinese dumplings might have pork, shrimp, or vegetables. Italian ravioli often have cheese or spinach.
Cooking Method
Turkish manti are traditionally cooked by boiling or steaming in a special pot. They are cooked until the dough is tender, usually in about 10-15 minutes. Other dumplings can be prepared in many ways. Chinese dumplings might be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. Italian ravioli are almost always boiled.
Serving
Manti are often served with a yogurt sauce mixed with garlic, topped with melted butter and red pepper flakes. In Turkey, this dish is often enjoyed during special occasions. Chinese dumplings might be dipped in soy sauce or vinegar. Italian ravioli are usually served with marinara sauce or just olive oil and herbs.
Nutritional Value
Turkish manti are a good choice for your body. A serving has around 180 calories, 6 grams of fat, and 8 grams of protein. That means they’re a good source of protein and carbs without having too many calories. Other dumplings can vary in how healthy they are, depending on what’s inside and how they’re cooked. Fried Chinese dumplings, for example, might have more calories and fat.
Cultural Significance
Manti have been a part of Turkish culture for a very long time. They’ve been made in Turkey for over 700 years! In some places, families get together to make manti for special events like weddings. Other dumplings also have special meanings in different countries. For example, Chinese dumplings are often eaten during Lunar New Year to wish for good luck and fortune.
Turkish manti might be small, but they carry big flavors and traditions, standing out among the world’s many dumplings.
Last Words
Turkish Manti is a delightful and flavorful dish with a rich history and a unique taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, making Manti can be a rewarding experience. Follow this guide to create your own delicious Manti and enjoy a taste of Turkish tradition.
