Mantu: The Beloved Afghan Dumplings

Popular Peshawari food Mantu is readily found in markets and streets as well as in houses. This is a thin flatbread loaded with lamb or beef combined in onions and spices. Usually accompanied with a yogurt-based sauce, mantu, a renowned Afghan dumpling, is a wonderful mix of delicate wrappers and savoury meat inside. Special events and family get-togethers call for this classic meal.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon oil (optional)

For the Filling

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Yogurt Sauce

• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Tomato Sauce

• 4 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Dried mint
• Red chili flakes

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Knife
• Large pot or steamer
• Skillet

Preparing the Dough

1. Combine the flour and salt in a mixing basin.
2. While combining, gradually incorporate water until a dough is achieved.
3. mix the dough for approximately 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Leave the dough to rest for a minimum of 30 minutes by surrounding it with a moist cloth.

Preparing the Filling

1. Under medium heat, brown the ground beef or lamb in a skillet.
2. Add the ground cuming, diced onion, garlic, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until the spices are completely blended and the onions are transparent. 

Assembling the Mantu

1. On a surface coated with flour, roll out the dough till thin.
2. With a knife or a cookie cutter, cut the dough either in circles or squares.
3. Center every piece of dough with a tiny scoop of filling.
4. To create dumplings, fold and seal the edges ensuring they are well wrapped.

Cooking the Mantu

• The dumplings should simmer in a steamer for 25 to 30 minutes until the dough cooks completely.
• As an alternative, cook the dumplings in a large salted water vessel for ten to twelve minutes

Preparing the Sauces

Yogurt Sauce

• In a vessel, cook the chopped onions, lemon and garlic until aromatic.

Tomato Sauce

• Combine the chopped tomatoes, ground turmeric, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
• Cook until the tomatoes are breaking down and form a thick liquid.

Serving

1. Arrange the steamed or boiled morsels on a serving platter.
2. Distribute the yoghurt marinade over the dumplings.
3. Add the tomato sauce to the top.
4. Garnish with desiccated mint, red chilli flakes, fresh cilantro or parsley.

Tips and Variations.

Dough Tips: For a proper form, mix the dough well and allow it to rest.

Filling Tips: Adjust the spices to your tastes, and try adding small pieces of herbs for added flavour.

Variations: For a vegetarian version, fill with sautéed vegetables and spices. Experiment with various spices to develop different flavour patterns.

Mantu is a delectable delicacy that combines the diverse flavours of Afghan cuisine. These morsels are guaranteed to impress, whether they are served as a main dish or a special appetiser. To finish the meal, serve with Afghan rice or a fresh salad.