Originating from Central Asia, manti are succulent steamed dumplings filled with seasoned meat, wrapped in thin dough. This traditional dish holds a rich history, dating back centuries, with variations found across the Silk Road region. Typically served with yogurt, garlic, and spices, manti offer a delightful burst of flavor and cultural heritage in every bite. Explore the origins, techniques, and variations of this beloved dish through our comprehensive recipe and historical exploration.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground lamb or beef

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/4 teaspoon cumin

- 1/4 teaspoon coriander

- 1 package wonton wrappers or homemade dough

- Butter or oil, for brushing

- Yogurt, for serving

- Mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander until well combined.

2. Place a small amount of the meat mixture onto each wonton wrapper or rolled-out dough square.

3. Fold the dough over the filling to create a triangle shape, sealing the edges with water.

4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the manti and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

5. Remove the cooked manti from the water and drain.

6. Brush the cooked manti with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

7. Serve the manti hot, topped with yogurt and garnished with mint leaves.

Enjoy this simple yet delicious manti recipe, perfect for a taste of Central Asian cuisine at home!

Nutrition Value:

1. Ground Lamb or Beef (1 pound)

  - Calories: Around 1000-1200 (varies based on fat content)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 100g

  - Fat: Approximately 70-90g

  - Sodium: Around 100-150mg

  - Cholesterol: Around 300-400mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: High-quality protein source, rich in essential amino acids, provides iron and vitamin B12.

2. Small Onion, Finely Chopped

  - Calories: Approximately 20-30

  - Carbohydrates: Around 5-6g

  - Protein: Around 0.5-1g

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Around 1-2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants like quercetin.

3. Garlic (2 cloves), Minced

  - Calories: Around 10-15

  - Carbohydrates: Around 1-2g

  - Protein: Around 0.5g

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Around 1-2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains allicin, which may have beneficial effects on heart health, and is a source of vitamin C and vitamin B6.

4. Salt (1 teaspoon)

  - Sodium: Around 2300mg (varies depending on type of salt)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

5. Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains piperine, which may improve digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients.

6. Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants like carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene.

7. Cumin (1/4 teaspoon)

  - Similar to paprika, with negligible calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, and cholesterol.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants, may aid digestion, and has been linked to potential health benefits such as improved blood sugar control.

8. Coriander (1/4 teaspoon)

  - Similar to cumin and paprika in nutritional breakdown.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants, may have anti-inflammatory properties, and contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and manganese.

9. Wonton Wrappers or Homemade Dough (1 package)

  - Nutritional content varies significantly depending on the type and brand.

  - Generally, they provide carbohydrates and minimal amounts of protein and fat.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Mainly a source of energy from carbohydrates.

10. Butter or Oil (for brushing)

  - Calories: Around 100-120 per tablespoon (varies based on type)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Around 11-14g per tablespoon

  - Sodium: Around 90-120mg

  - Cholesterol: Around 30-40mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides fat-soluble vitamins (if butter) and essential fatty acids. Oil provides healthy fats.

11. Yogurt (for serving)

  - Nutritional content varies depending on the type and brand (e.g., Greek yogurt, regular yogurt).

  - Generally, yogurt provides protein, calcium, and probiotics.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of protein, calcium for bone health, and probiotics for gut health.

12. Mint Leaves (for garnish)

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion. Also adds flavor and freshness to the dish.