Mantu (Afghan Dumplings)

Explore the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine with this classic Mantu recipe. Mantu are delightful steamed dumplings filled with a savory minced beef mixture, traditionally served with a tangy yogurt sauce and a lentil topping. This dish is beloved in Afghan households and a testament to the intricate flavors of Central Asian culinary traditions.

Ingredients

🌾 3 cups all-purpose flour
🧂 1/2 tbsp salt
🫒 1½ tbsp vegetable oil
💧 Water as needed

🫒 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil
🥩 500g minced beef
🧅 700g onions, finely chopped
🌶️ 1 tsp black pepper
🌿 1/2 tsp coriander powder
🍂 1/2 tsp garam masala
🌿 1/2 tsp cumin powder
🧂 Salt to taste
🌶️ 2 finely chopped green chilies
🌿 3 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped

🍛 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
🫒 4-5 tbsp vegetable oil
🧅 1 small onion, chopped
🍅 1 cup tomato puree
🧄 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
🌶️ 1 tsp red chili powder
🌿 1/2 tsp coriander powder
🍂 1/2 tsp garam masala
🌿 1/2 tsp cumin powder
🌕 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
🧂 Salt to taste

🥛 Yogurt
🧂 Salt to taste

🍃 Dried mint

Instructions

1- Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms.
• Add oil and knead for a few more minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2- Prepare the Mantu Stuffing:

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, add onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Add minced beef, black pepper, coriander powder, garam masala, cumin powder, salt, and green chiles. Cook until the meat is browned and fragrant.
• Stir in fresh coriander leaves. Remove from heat and let it cool.

3- Prepare the Lentils:

• Cook chana dal until soft, then drain and keep aside.
• In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add ginger garlic paste and cook for a minute.
• Add tomato puree, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
• Stir in the cooked chana dal and simmer for 5-10 minutes.

4- Assemble and Cook Mantu:

• Roll out the dough into thin sheets and cut into squares.
• Place a teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each square. Fold into dumplings by bringing edges together to seal.
• Steam the dumplings in a steamer for 30-35 minutes.

5- Prepare Sauce and Serve:

• Mix yogurt with salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• To serve, place steamed mantu on a platter, spoon yogurt sauce generously over them, and top with the lentil mixture.
• Garnish with dried mint. Enjoy hot.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Equipment: Dough bowl, Knife, Frying pan, Steamer, Mixing bowl

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the dough is well-rested to make it easier to roll out.
• Adjust spices in the filling according to your heat preference.
• Use fresh coriander for an enhanced aroma and flavor.

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Mantu (Afghan Dumplings)

Posted by Waivio guest: @waivio_hivecooking