Dear Lykkers! Mantı, often referred to as the "Turkish dumpling," is a delicious and intricate dish beloved across Türkiye.

These tiny pockets of dough are traditionally filled with seasoned ground meat, boiled to tender perfection, and topped with a generous serving of garlic yogurt and melted butter infused with sumac or red pepper flakes.

What Is Mantı?

Mantı are small, ravioli-like dumplings filled with spiced minced meat, typically lamb, and delicately folded by hand. These mini dumplings are often boiled or steamed and served with yogurt and butter toppings. The dish is especially popular in Türkiye's Anatolian region, where each town may have its own unique twist on the recipe, from larger dough parcels to smaller, coin-sized versions.

Homemade Turkish Mantı Recipe🥟 with Garlic Yoghurt and Chili Butter 🧈

Video by Refika's Kitchen

The Origins of Mantı:

A Rich Culinary History: Mantı has roots in Central Asia, where nomadic Turkish tribes are said to have first created these meat-filled dumplings. Through the centuries, mantı spread across regions and evolved into various forms found in Central Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines.

A Heritage Dish: In Türkiye, mantı is more than a meal—it’s a part of family traditions. Mothers and daughters often gather to make these dumplings together, filling, folding, and shaping each piece by hand. The process can take hours, but the result is always worth it.

How to Make Mantı:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

Flour

Water

Salt

Eggs (optional for texture)

For the Filling:

Ground lamb

Finely chopped onions

Salt and pepper

For the Topping:

Garlic yogurt

Melted butter with sumac or red pepper flakes

Preparation Steps:

Make the Dough: Combine flour, salt, and water (and eggs if desired) to form a smooth dough. Knead until soft, then let it rest.

Prepare the Filling: Mix the ground meat, onions, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Shape the Dumplings: Roll the dough into thin sheets, cut it into small squares, place a small amount of filling in each, and fold into tiny parcels.

Cook the Mantı: Boil in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Add the Topping: Serve the dumplings with a generous drizzle of garlic-infused yogurt and melted butter with sumac or red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Why Mantı Is So Popular:

Perfect for All Occasions: Whether served as a cozy family meal or a festive dish for gatherings, mantı brings people together and warms the heart.

Small but Flavorful: Each dumpling is bite-sized yet packed with flavor, making it easy to enjoy one after another without feeling overly full.

Layers of Flavor: The combination of tangy yogurt, savory meat filling, and rich, spiced butter creates a dynamic and comforting taste experience.

Where to Enjoy Mantı in Türkiye:

Mantı can be enjoyed in many Turkish restaurants, with some specializing in this classic dish. Kayseri, a city in central Türkiye, is especially famous for its mantı, offering variations that range from traditional boiled dumplings to baked versions.

Mantı is one of Türkiye's most beloved dishes, combining intricate preparation with a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. No matter you try it in a restaurant or attempt to make it at home, mantı captures the spirit of Turkish cuisine in each tiny, flavor-filled bite. For anyone who loves dumplings or wants to explore new tastes, mantı is a must-try!