Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil are truly the kind of dish that makes you want to pull up a chair, call your loved ones to the table, and savor every bite. This recipe brings the comforting joy of handmade dumplings (manti) together with creamy, tangy yogurt and a drizzle of intoxicatingly fragrant spiced oil. Each tender parcel is packed with perfectly seasoned meat, while the yogurt and vibrant red oil add layers of flavor that make every forkful a revelation. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine Main Course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil is simple and easy to find, but each ingredient plays a key role in creating that signature taste and texture. From the pillowy dough to the aromatic filling and the bold finishing sauces, here’s what you’ll need (plus plenty of helpful tips for perfect results).
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for your dough, giving the dumplings their tender yet toothsome bite.
- Salt: Enhances flavor in both the dough and filling, so don’t skip it!
- Large egg: Helps bind the dough together for the perfect elasticity.
- Water: Add just enough for a smooth, slightly firm dough that’s easy to shape.
- Ground beef or lamb: Choose lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor or beef for a lighter option—both are delicious.
- Small onion: Grated or minced, it adds juiciness and a subtle sweetness to the filling.
- Ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note to the meat mixture.
- Paprika: Adds color and depth to both the filling and the spiced oil.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling to perfection.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy, it’s the key to that luscious, tangy yogurt sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Just one or two, minced, infuses the yogurt sauce with irresistible aroma.
- Butter or olive oil: Either works beautifully for the spiced oil—go with butter for extra richness.
- Red pepper flakes (Aleppo or chili flakes): These provide a gentle heat and gorgeous color to the oil.
- Dried mint (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal lift to the spiced oil if you like.
How to Make Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by combining your flour and salt in a mixing bowl, then crack in the egg and begin mixing. Add water gradually, just until the dough comes together and feels smooth and slightly firm to the touch. Knead it for about 5–7 minutes—it should be supple but not sticky. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes, which will make it much easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While your dough is resting, mix up the savory filling: combine ground beef or lamb, onion, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mixing with your hands helps everything come together evenly and keeps the meat tender. You want a well-seasoned, aromatic blend that’s ready to be tucked into each dumpling.
Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings
On a lightly floured surface, roll your rested dough as thin as possible—about 1/16-inch thick is ideal. Cut the sheet into small squares, roughly 1.5 inches per side. Place a tiny bit of filling in the center of each square, then pinch up the corners to form cute little bundles. This step is a bit meditative and always worth the extra care!
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop the dumplings in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking. In about 6–8 minutes, they’ll float to the surface and the meat will be cooked through. Lift them out with a slotted spoon and set aside—they’re now ready for their flavorful toppings.
Step 5: Make the Yogurt Sauce
In a bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir it well so the garlic is evenly distributed. This sauce is creamy, tangy, and absolutely essential for bringing the dish together.
Step 6: Prepare the Spiced Oil
Melt butter or heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried mint if you’re using it. Let the spices sizzle for about a minute until fragrant, then remove from the heat. This aromatic oil will add both color and a gentle heat to your Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the warm dumplings on a serving plate. Generously spoon over the garlicky yogurt, then drizzle with the spiced oil. For a final flourish, sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill if you like. Serve immediately and watch everyone dive in!
How to Serve Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil
Garnishes
A finishing touch of chopped fresh parsley or dill adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that pairs perfectly with the richness of the dish. You can also scatter a few toasted pine nuts on top for extra crunch and a hint of nuttiness—these little details make your Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil feel truly special.
Side Dishes
Serve your manti alongside a crisp, lemony cucumber-tomato salad or a simple shepherd’s salad for a refreshing contrast. Some warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover yogurt and spiced oil, making sure not a drop goes to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil in individual shallow bowls, layered with yogurt and oil for each guest. Or arrange the dumplings in a spiral on a large platter for a dramatic centerpiece at your next dinner party—this dish always gets people talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra dumplings, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Keep the yogurt sauce and spiced oil in separate containers to maintain the best texture and flavor. Leftovers will keep well for up to 2 days, and they make a fabulous next-day lunch.
Freezing
One of the best things about Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil is how well the dumplings freeze. Arrange uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time.
Reheating
To reheat cooked dumplings, gently warm them in a pot of simmering water for a minute or two, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel. Always add the yogurt sauce and spiced oil just before serving to keep those flavors fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers instead of making the dough?
Absolutely! While homemade dough gives the most authentic texture, thin wonton wrappers are a great shortcut and work surprisingly well for Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil. Just be sure to seal them tightly so they don’t open during cooking.
Is it possible to make these vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the meat filling for a mixture of well-seasoned lentils, sautéed mushrooms, or mashed chickpeas with onions and spices. The result is still hearty and delicious, and pairs beautifully with the garlicky yogurt and spiced oil.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
No worries! You can use plain regular yogurt—just strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter for an hour or so to thicken it up. The thicker texture will help the sauce cling to the dumplings.
How spicy is the spiced oil?
That’s entirely up to you. Using Aleppo pepper gives a mild, fragrant heat, while regular chili flakes bring more punch. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preferences, or even omit the pepper flakes for a milder version.
Can I make the dumplings in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the dumplings a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge, or freeze them for longer storage. Just cook them fresh before serving Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tasted Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil, you’ll understand why this dish is such a beloved classic. The balance of flavors and textures is simply unforgettable. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this homemade delight—you’re in for a truly special meal!
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Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil, known as manti, are small, delicate dumplings filled with a savory ground beef or lamb mixture. Served with a tangy garlic-infused yogurt sauce and drizzled with a fragrant spiced butter or olive oil, this dish is a flavorful and comforting main course inspired by traditional Turkish cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2–3 tablespoons water (as needed)
- 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion (grated or finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1–2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt to taste
For the Spiced Oil
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo or chili flakes)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the egg and gradually mix in water until a smooth, slightly firm dough forms. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until elastic. Cover with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat, grated or minced onion, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble the dumplings: Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/16-inch thickness. Cut the dough into small squares roughly 1.5 inches wide. Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each square, then pinch the corners together to seal the dumpling securely into little bundles. Repeat this process with all dough and filling.
- Cook the dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the dumplings in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for 6 to 8 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the meat inside is thoroughly cooked. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings and set aside to drain.
- Make the yogurt sauce: In a bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend the flavors and set aside to allow the garlic aroma to infuse into the yogurt.
- Prepare the spiced oil: Melt the butter or heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried mint if using. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute until fragrant, then remove from heat to prevent burning.
- To serve: Arrange the warm dumplings on serving plates. Spoon the garlicky yogurt sauce generously over the dumplings followed by a drizzle of the hot spiced oil. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or dill for added freshness and color. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- These dumplings are traditionally called “manti” in Turkey.
- You can prepare and freeze uncooked dumplings; cook them straight from frozen by boiling for a slightly longer time.
- For richer flavor, use lamb instead of beef in the filling.
- Top the finished dish with toasted pine nuts for extra texture and richness.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
