Manti

Manti – savory Turkmen steamed dumplings filled with meat
Turkmenistan
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Manti are delightful dumplings filled with seasoned meat, a beloved dish in Turkmenistan. They hold cultural significance as a staple during family gatherings and special occasions. Traditionally enjoyed with a side of yogurt or a spicy sauce, Manti showcases the rich culinary heritage of Turkmenistan.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water (more as needed)
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For Cooking and Serving:
  • Vegetable oil for greasing the steamer
  • Plain yogurt or sour cream (for serving)
  • Chopped fresh herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Make a well in the center and add the egg and water.

Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.

Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Roll and Fill the Manti

Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface, about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.

Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges to seal tightly. You can also shape the manti into square or rectangular parcels if desired.

Steam the Manti

Grease the steamer basket with vegetable oil to prevent the manti from sticking.

Place the manti in the steamer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.

Steam the manti over boiling water for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is fully cooked.

Serve

Transfer the steamed manti to a serving plate.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Manti?

Manti are dumplings typically filled with a mixture of ground meat and onions, then steamed or boiled.

Where does Manti come from?

Manti has its roots in Central Asian cuisine, particularly popular in Turkmenistan.

What are the main ingredients in Manti?

The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, salt, egg, water, ground lamb or beef, and onions.

How long does Manti take to make?

Manti takes approximately 80-100 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Manti?

Manti is often served with yogurt, a spicy red sauce, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.