Turkish Manti, often referred to as Turkish dumplings, are a beloved traditional dish known for their delicate dough filled with flavorful minced meat, topped with a savory yogurt sauce and drizzled with a spiced butter sauce. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create these delightful little parcels of goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make Heavenly Turkish Manti step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 egg
- 1 teacup of oil
- 1 teaspoon of yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of water
- 1/2 tablespoon of salt
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 4.5-5 cups of flour
For the Filling:
- 3 dry onions, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 500 g medium-fat ground beef
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Oregano to taste
- Ground red pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon of milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, oil, yogurt, water, and vinegar. Whisk until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the salt and baking powder to the wet mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook Onions: In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft.
- Add Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Season: Season the filling with salt, black pepper, oregano, and ground red pepper. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Manti
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut Dough: Cut the rolled-out dough into small squares, about 2 inches by 2 inches.
- Add Filling: Place a small amount of the filling in the center of each square.
- Shape Manti: Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangular shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can also pinch the corners together to create a more traditional shape.
- Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 4: Cook the Manti
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange Manti: Place the manti on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk.
- Brush Manti: Brush the tops of the manti with the egg wash.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the manti are golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- Serve: Serve the baked manti hot, drizzled with a savory yogurt sauce and a spiced butter sauce for a complete Turkish experience.
Cooking Notes
- Dough: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded to develop gluten, which helps in achieving a chewy and tender texture.
- Filling: Allow the filling to cool slightly before using to prevent the dough from becoming too moist.
- Yogurt Sauce: You can make a simple yogurt sauce by mixing plain yogurt with minced garlic, salt, and a bit of water to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover manti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze manti? A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked manti on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Turkish Manti, follow these modifications:
- Dough: Use a low-carb dough made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Filling: Ensure the filling ingredients are low-carb and avoid using any high-carb vegetables.
Heavenly Turkish Manti is a delicious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special meal or any time you want to enjoy a taste of Turkey. With its tender dough and savory filling, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful flavors of Turkish cuisine!
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