Lunchtime Mantu: Afghan Dumplings Delight
Embar on a culinary journey to Afghanistan with this delightful recipe for Mantu, traditional steamed dumplings. These tender pockets are filled with spiced ground meat and served in a luscious sauce that combines tangy yogurt with fragrant spices. Perfect as a centerpiece for any lunch gathering, these mantu will transport your senses to the bustling markets of Kabul.
“Mantu: A symphony of flavors wrapped in tradition.”
Highlights
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 320kcal
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Water, as needed
For the Filling:
1 pound ground lamb or beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
3 cups plain yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried mint or fresh mint leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
Make the Filling: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant. Stir in chopped onions, cooking until golden brown. Add ground meat, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until meat is fully browned and excess moisture evaporates. Set aside to cool.
Assemble the Mantu: Divide dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center. Fold edges over filling and pinch tightly to seal. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
Steam the Dumplings: Bring water to a boil in a steamer or large pot with a steaming basket. Arrange mantu in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cover and steam for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, mint, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
Serve: Transfer the steamed mantu to a serving dish. Pour the yogurt sauce over them. Garnish with additional mint if desired.
Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:
- Serving: 2 dumplings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Indulge in these Mantu dumplings, a true testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Afghan cuisine. Their tender texture combined with aromatic spices makes them a perfect choice for any lunch occasion. Serve alongside warm naan bread for an authentic experience. Enjoy this traditional dish that promises warmth and comfort at every bite!
