Gutap
Gutap is a popular Turkmen savory pastry, similar to a turnover or empanada. It's typically filled with finely chopped meat, onions, and spices, then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Warm water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 400 g Ground Lamb or Beef
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil(for filling)
- for frying Vegetable oil or Butter
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms.
💡 Tip: Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes. - 2
For the filling: Heat 4 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- 3
Add the ground meat to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned.
- 4
Stir in minced garlic, cumin powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Ensure the filling is well-seasoned. - 5
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
💡 Tip: Work on a lightly floured surface. - 6
Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border.
- 7
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle. Crimp the edges firmly to seal.
💡 Tip: You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and a secure seal. - 8
Heat a generous amount of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the gutaps for 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. - 9
Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
💡 Tip: Gutap is delicious on its own or served with a side of yogurt or sour cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough should be soft but not sticky. Adjust flour or water as needed.
- ✓Ensure the filling is cooked and cooled slightly before assembling the gutaps to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- ✓For a crispier gutap, use slightly more oil for frying.
🔄 Variations
- Vegetarian Gutap: Fill with mashed potatoes, onions, and herbs.
- Sweet Gutap: Fill with a mixture of cottage cheese, sugar, and raisins.