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Turkish Manti Dumplings with Garlic Yogurt and Spiced Butter

Tiny hand-folded Turkish dumplings stuffed with savory ground beef, served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce and finished with a drizzle of spiced red pepper butter and fresh herbs. A comforting, elegant dish that celebrates traditional Anatolian flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup water (plus more if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Pinch of salt (for yogurt sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or chili flakes
  • Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add egg and water gradually, mixing until a stiff dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix ground meat with grated onion, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface. Cut into small 1.5-inch squares.
  4. Place a small pinch of the meat filling in the center of each square. Pinch corners together to seal into a tiny pyramid shape.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manti in batches for about 6–8 minutes, or until they float and are tender.
  6. In a bowl, mix yogurt with garlic and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  7. In a small saucepan, melt butter and olive oil. Stir in paprika and chili flakes and heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  8. To serve, spread garlic yogurt on a plate, top with hot manti, then drizzle with the spiced butter sauce. Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can prepare the manti in advance and freeze them before boiling.
  • Lamb offers a more traditional flavor, but beef is a great substitute.
  • Adjust garlic and spice levels to your taste preference.
  • Serve immediately after assembling to keep the textures distinct.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkish manti, homemade dumplings, garlic yogurt, spiced butter, Turkish cuisine, Anatolian food, beef dumplings, yogurt sauce, comfort food