If you have a craving for something both comforting and packed with bold flavors, then you absolutely must try this Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe. These little manti dumplings, filled with seasoned ground meat and nestled beneath a luscious garlicky yogurt, get a final flourish from a vibrant, spiced oil drizzle that perfectly balances creaminess with a hint of heat. Each bite sings with tradition and warmth, making it a beloved staple of Turkish cuisine that’s surprisingly simple to recreate in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making these dumplings shine. They are straightforward pantry staples, but each one plays an essential role—from the tender dough to the robust spiced oil, every component adds layers of texture, taste, or color that bring this recipe to life.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our dumpling dough that provides structure and chew.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor throughout the dough and filling.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
- 1/3 cup water (more as needed): Ensures the dough is supple and easy to roll out.
- 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb: The hearty filling with deep, meaty flavor; lamb adds authenticity.
- 1 small onion (grated or finely chopped): Brings sweetness and moisture to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the meat perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild warmth to the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Offers subtle earthiness and color to the meat mixture.
- 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt: The creamy base for the garlicky sauce that cools the palate.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a punch of flavor to the yogurt, making it irresistibly savory.
- Salt to taste: Balances the yogurt sauce perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil: The rich fat for the spiced oil that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky sweet depth to the finishing oil.
- 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle kick and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint (optional): Adds a refreshing herbal note to the spiced oil.
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or sumac: For a fresh, tangy, or colorful finish.
How to Make Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl, creating the base for your dough. Add the egg and gradually pour in water while mixing to form a firm yet pliable dough. Knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This process is rewarding because kneading develops the gluten, ensuring your dumplings have just the right bite. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes, which relaxes the gluten and makes rolling much easier.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough is resting, mix together the ground beef or lamb with the grated onion, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This filling is wonderfully straightforward, but it’s the balance of seasoning that makes each bite so flavorful. The onion not only adds moisture but also sweet undertones that complement the meat beautifully.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dumplings
When the dough has rested, roll it out thinly on a floured surface—aim for about a 1/16-inch thickness. Cut it into small squares, roughly 1.5 inches each. Place a small spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each square, then pinch the corners together to seal the dumpling into a neat bundle. This part is surprisingly meditative and a lot of fun; you’ll almost feel like a dumpling artist by the end!
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the dumplings in batches for 6 to 8 minutes until they float to the surface and are cooked through. This method ensures the dumplings stay tender and juicy inside with a delicate, pillowy texture on the outside.
Step 5: Make the Garlicky Yogurt Sauce
While the dumplings are cooking, whisk together the plain yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. The garlic is what makes this sauce irresistible—it infuses the creamy yogurt with a fresh, savory zing that contrasts perfectly with the rich filling.
Step 6: Prepare the Spiced Oil
In a small pan, melt the butter or heat olive oil, then add the paprika, Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes, and dried mint if using. Let it sizzle gently for about 30 seconds, releasing the oils and deepening the colors. This fragrant spiced oil is the crowning glory of the dish, adding warmth and a beautiful reddish hue when drizzled over the dumplings.
How to Serve Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe
Garnishes
To finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of sumac on top. Parsley adds a bright, herbaceous lift that cuts through the richness, while sumac contributes a tangy, lemony pop that’s a classic touch in Turkish cuisine. These small garnishes elevate the dish with freshness and a splash of color, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad drizzled with lemon and olive oil, or some roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and vibrant. A crusty loaf of bread is also welcome to soak up any of the garlicky yogurt and spiced oil left on your plate—it’s comfort food at its finest!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests or add a modern flair, serve the dumplings on a long platter with stripes of yogurt and spiced oil artfully drizzled across. Alternatively, plating individual portions in shallow bowls with dollops of yogurt and a bright sprinkle of herbs looks inviting and helps highlight the textures and colors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooked dumplings covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The yogurt sauce can be kept separately to prevent it from breaking down and lose its fresh flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked Turkish dumplings by placing them on a tray in a single layer and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. This way, you can easily cook fresh dumplings whenever the mood strikes without repeating the prep from scratch.
Reheating
To reheat, gently drop the frozen or refrigerated dumplings into simmering salted water and cook until they float and are heated through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Reheat the yogurt sauce separately and drizzle fresh spiced oil after warming to maintain the flavors and texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought wrappers instead of making the dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought wonton wrappers work perfectly as a convenient shortcut, and they make assembling these Turkish dumplings a breeze without sacrificing too much authenticity.
What type of meat is best for the filling?
Lamb is the traditional choice and adds wonderful depth, but ground beef is a delicious alternative that’s often preferred for its milder flavor. Feel free to choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
How spicy is this recipe and can I adjust the heat?
This recipe offers a gentle warmth from the paprika and Aleppo pepper but is not overly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or cutting back if you prefer a milder dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
While the classic Turkish dumplings require meat, you can experiment with vegetarian fillings like sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or spiced pumpkin to create your own version with equally delicious results.
What’s the best way to serve leftover spiced oil?
Store the spiced oil in a small airtight container and warm gently before serving. It’s also fantastic as a finishing drizzle on roasted veggies, grilled meats, or even salads, adding a lovely smoky spice wherever you use it.
Final Thoughts
Making this Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe is like inviting a taste of Turkey into your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s richly rewarding, deeply comforting, and well worth the effort. If you’re looking for a meal to impress your friends or a cozy dinner to savor any night of the week, give these manti dumplings a try—you might just find a new favorite to return to again and again!
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Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Halal
Description
Turkish dumplings, known as “manti,” are delicate handmade pasta parcels filled with seasoned ground meat and served with a luscious garlicky yogurt sauce topped with a spicy, aromatic butter or oil drizzle. This comforting and flavorful dish from Turkish cuisine combines the creamy tanginess of yogurt with the warmth of chili-spiced oil, creating a perfect balance of flavors that delight the palate.
Ingredients
For the Dumpling Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup water (more as needed)
For the Filling
- 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion (grated or finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the Garlicky Yogurt Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt to taste
For the Spiced Oil
- 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or sumac
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the egg and gradually incorporate the water until a firm but pliable dough forms. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Make the Filling: While the dough rests, mix the ground beef or lamb with the grated or finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and paprika until thoroughly combined to create a flavorful filling.
- Roll and Cut the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the rested dough thinly to about 1/16-inch thickness. Cut the dough into small squares approximately 1.5 inches wide to form the dumpling base.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of meat filling in the center of each dough square. Pinch the corners together firmly to form a tight little bundle or purse shape. Arrange the shaped dumplings on a floured tray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently drop the dumplings in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, combine the plain yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Mix well to create a creamy, garlicky sauce ready for serving.
- Make the Spiced Oil: In a small pan, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the paprika, Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes, and dried mint if using. Let the spices sizzle gently for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil with their aroma and flavor.
- Serve: Place the hot cooked dumplings in serving bowls. Spoon the garlicky yogurt sauce generously over them, then drizzle the spiced oil on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sumac for an authentic touch. Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
Notes
- You can freeze uncooked manti on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later use, preserving freshness and convenience.
- For a quicker alternative, use store-bought wonton wrappers instead of making the dough from scratch.
- Adjust the spiciness of the dish by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili flakes or Aleppo pepper used in the spiced oil according to your preference.
