If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food experience, let me introduce you to Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil. This dish (known as manti) is a symphony of tender dumplings filled with savory meat, blanketed in cool, tangy yogurt, and finished with a drizzle of sizzling spiced oil. It’s deeply satisfying, visually stunning, and brings a taste of Anatolian warmth right to your table. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine Main Course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here is simple, but each one helps build the unforgettable flavor, texture, and color of Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil. Don’t be tempted to skip anything, as these components truly sing when enjoyed together!
- All-purpose flour: The heart of the dumpling dough, it turns silky and supple when properly kneaded.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors in both the dough and the juicy filling.
- Water: Hydrates the dough and helps bind it; you might need a touch more for the perfect texture.
- Large egg: Makes the dough pliable and rich, so your dumplings are easy to shape.
- Ground beef or lamb: Traditional, juicy, and brimming with flavor; pick your favorite or mix them!
- Small onion (grated): Adds moisture and sweet savoriness to the filling.
- Black pepper: Gives a subtle, peppery warmth that boosts the meat’s flavor.
- Ground cumin: Provides an earthy, unmistakably Turkish aroma.
- Plain whole milk yogurt: The creamy, tangy base for that glorious garlicky sauce.
- Garlic (minced or grated): The star of the yogurt sauce; its bite mellows beautifully into the yogurt.
- Butter or olive oil: Both make a decadent base for the spiced oil—use whichever you love most.
- Paprika: Gives the oil a beautiful color and mild smokiness.
- Red pepper flakes (Aleppo or crushed): Add gentle, bright heat.
- Dried mint (optional): For a fresh, herbal note that pairs so well with the creamy yogurt.
- Chopped parsley or mint for garnish: A final flourish of color and freshness on your finished plate.
How to Make Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil
Step 1: Prepare and Rest the Dough
Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat together the egg and water, then slowly add the wet mixture into the flour, stirring until a rough dough begins to form. Knead it for about 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes completely smooth and elastic. Don’t rush the kneading—this is your ticket to tender, non-chewy dumplings. Cover with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes; this step relaxes the gluten, making the dough far easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Make the Savory Meat Filling
While your dough is resting, mix together your ground meat, grated onion, black pepper, salt, and cumin in a bowl. Use your hands or a spoon, working just until everything is well blended and slightly sticky. This ensures every dumpling will be juicy, aromatic, and bursting with classic Turkish flavors.
Step 3: Shape the Dumplings
Generously flour your work surface and roll out the rested dough into a thin sheet, about the thickness of a nickel (try for less than 1/8 inch). Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into neat 1.5-inch squares. Place a pea-sized amount of filling in the center of each square—less is more here, so your dumplings seal properly. Pinch opposite corners together to form a little “purse”, making sure all edges are sealed well. This classic manti shape will keep your filling tucked in during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Manti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop in the dumplings in batches so they don’t crowd the pot. Boil for 7–8 minutes, or until they float to the top and the dough is cooked through. Drain them gently and transfer to a tray; try not to pile them too high, to avoid sticking.
Step 5: Mix the Garlicky Yogurt Sauce
While the dumplings are boiling, stir together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl until smooth and fluffy. Keep this sauce chilled until you’re ready to serve—it’s both cooling and bold, the secret weapon of Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.
Step 6: Sizzle the Spiced Oil
In a small saucepan, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add the paprika, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of dried mint if you wish. Gently heat and stir for about a minute, just until the spices bloom and the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma. Don’t let the spices burn—pull the pan off the heat as soon as the oil is vibrantly colored and fragrant.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Spread a generous bed of the garlicky yogurt sauce over your serving plate. Top with a tumble of warm dumplings, then spoon that dazzling, aromatic spiced oil across everything. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or mint, step back, and admire your masterpiece—it’s official, you’ve made Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil at home!
How to Serve Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil
Garnishes
The classic finishing touch is a shower of freshly chopped parsley or mint, which brings a patch of green freshness and a burst of aroma. For an extra hit of color and flavor, you can dust the finished plate with a touch more paprika or Aleppo pepper. Each bite becomes a little party of creamy yogurt, savory dumpling, and zesty herbs.
Side Dishes
Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil are deeply satisfying on their own, but they’re also lovely with a crisp, lemony cucumber-tomato salad or a bowl of warm, lemony lentil soup. Some families enjoy a side of pickled vegetables to balance the richness. For a truly Turkish spread, serve with pillowy pide bread or a handful of olives.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to go above and beyond, try serving the dumplings family-style on a big platter, letting everyone spoon their own yogurt and oil. Alternatively, make mini individual portions in shallow bowls for an elegant dinner party starter. For special occasions, drizzle the spiced oil into artistic swirls and scatter pomegranate seeds over the top—your guests will be delighted by both flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil, store the dumplings, yogurt, and oil separately in the fridge. Place any cooked, drained dumplings in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. The yogurt sauce will keep well for a couple of days, and you can refresh it with a little extra garlic or salt if needed.
Freezing
One of the best things about homemade manti is how beautifully they freeze. Lay uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a floured baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to two months. When you crave Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil, just boil them frozen for a couple of minutes longer than usual—no need to thaw!
Reheating
To reheat leftover dumplings, simply drop them into simmering water for 2–3 minutes, or steam gently until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough rubbery. Warm the spiced oil in a small saucepan and give the yogurt a good stir before assembling your next plate.
FAQs
Can I make the dumplings vegetarian?
Absolutely! Try swapping the meat filling for a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and a pinch of ground walnuts. Season generously and proceed just as you would with the meat version for delicious vegetarian Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.
What type of yogurt works best for the sauce?
Whole milk yogurt is ideal—it’s thick and creamy, which gives the sauce luscious body. If your yogurt is particularly runny, strain it for an hour or two before mixing in the garlic and salt.
How can I keep my dumplings from bursting in the water?
Seal each dumpling tightly by pinching the edges well. Don’t overfill with meat, and make sure your dough isn’t too thin. A gentle simmer (not a hard boil) will keep the dumplings intact for your Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.
Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers to save time?
If you’re crunched for time, wonton wrappers are a handy shortcut. The texture will be a bit different from homemade dough, but you’ll still have a tasty result with minimal fuss.
Is the spiced oil very hot?
Not overwhelmingly—using Aleppo pepper provides a gentle, fruity heat with beautiful color. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference, and feel free to omit them for a milder take.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil enough—making them is a fun, rewarding project, and the results always delight. Whether you’re hoping to impress or just feeding your soul, this iconic Turkish recipe deserves a place in your kitchen. Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every step of this special meal!
Print
Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Experience the authentic flavors of Turkey with these delicious Turkish Dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and spiced oil. A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water (plus more as needed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
For the yogurt sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups plain whole milk yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the spiced oil:
- 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo or crushed)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
Chopped parsley or mint for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dumplings: Mix flour and salt. Beat egg with water, then combine with flour to form a dough. Rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the filling: Combine meat, onion, salt, pepper, and cumin. Set aside.
- Assemble the dumplings: Roll out the dough, cut into squares, place filling, and seal to form dumplings.
- Cook the dumplings: Boil in salted water for 7–8 minutes until cooked. Drain.
- Prepare the yogurt sauce: Mix yogurt, garlic, and salt.
- Make the spiced oil: Melt butter, add paprika, red pepper flakes, and mint. Heat until fragrant.
- Serve: Spread yogurt on a plate, top with dumplings, drizzle with spiced oil, and garnish with parsley or mint.
Notes
- This dish is traditionally served warm or at room temperature.
- You can make the dumplings ahead and freeze them before boiling. Simply boil from frozen for 1–2 minutes longer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
