Tajik Fried Manti with Spiced Yogurt
A delightful twist on the classic manti, these dumplings are pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a cooling, spiced yogurt sauce. The filling is typically a savory mix of minced lamb or beef with onions and spices, offering a satisfying contrast in textures and flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Warm water
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 500 g Ground lamb or beef
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds, crushed
- 0.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups Plain yogurt
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp Mint, dried
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a firm dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes.
💡 Tip: The dough should be firm but pliable. Resting allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll. - 2
For the filling: In a bowl, combine minced meat, finely chopped onion, crushed cumin seeds, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the onion is very finely chopped helps it distribute evenly and cook through. - 3
Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion very thinly into a circle (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
💡 Tip: The thinner the dough, the more delicate the manti will be. - 4
Place about 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then bring the two corners together and pinch to seal, forming a traditional manti shape. Alternatively, you can simply fold into a crescent or square.
💡 Tip: Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during frying. - 5
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the manti in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
💡 Tip: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even frying without burning. - 6
Remove fried manti from the pan and drain on paper towels.
💡 Tip: Draining excess oil is crucial for a less greasy final product. - 7
For the yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, dried mint, and a pinch of salt.
💡 Tip: Allow the garlic to meld with the yogurt for at least 10 minutes before serving for a milder flavor. - 8
Serve the hot, fried manti immediately with the spiced yogurt sauce on the side.
💡 Tip: These are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer filling, you can add a tablespoon of finely chopped cilantro.
- ✓If you prefer a softer manti, you can steam them for about 10 minutes after shaping and before frying.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs in the yogurt sauce to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of sumac.
- For a vegetarian version, use a filling of finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and spices.