Originating from Turkey, Manti are savory dumplings filled with spiced meat, traditionally served with a garlic yogurt sauce and a drizzle of melted butter infused with red pepper flakes. The dish boasts a rich history, dating back centuries to Central Asia, where variations are found across the region. Turkish Manti is cherished for its flavorful filling, delicate dough, and the harmony of its accompanying sauces. This culinary gem has transcended borders, delighting palates worldwide with its exquisite taste and cultural significance.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef or lamb

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 package wonton wrappers (or homemade dough)

- 1 cup plain yogurt

- 2 cloves garlic, crushed

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method:

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

2. Place a small amount of the meat mixture onto each wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook until they float to the surface, about 4-5 minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and crushed garlic to make the sauce.

5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the red pepper flakes.

6. Serve the cooked dumplings topped with the garlic yogurt sauce and drizzled with the melted butter mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Turkish Manti!

Nutrition Value:

1. Ground Beef or Lamb:

  - Calories: Varies depending on fat content, approximately 250-300 calories per 4 oz (cooked)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 20-25g per 4 oz (cooked)

  - Fat: Approximately 15-25g per 4 oz (cooked)

  - Sodium: Varies depending on seasoning

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 80-100mg per 4 oz (cooked)

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and niacin

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides essential protein and important nutrients like iron and zinc for muscle growth and repair.

2. Onion:

  - Calories: Approximately 45 calories per medium onion

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g per medium onion

  - Protein: Approximately 1g per medium onion

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Onions contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and are a good source of fiber.

3. Garlic:

  - Calories: Approximately 4 calories per clove

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per clove

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and selenium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and heart health.

4. Paprika:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per teaspoon

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Good source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Paprika contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Cumin:

  - Calories: Approximately 8 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per teaspoon

  - Protein: 0.4g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains iron, manganese, and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Cumin may aid digestion and has been linked to potential health benefits like improved blood sugar control.

6. Salt and Pepper:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Consumed in moderation, salt adds flavor but excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure.

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor to the dish.

7. Wonton Wrappers:

  - Nutritional information varies depending on brand and ingredients. Generally:

   - Calories: Approximately 20-30 calories per wrapper

   - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3-5g per wrapper

   - Protein: Approximately 1-2g per wrapper

   - Fat: Approximately 0.5-1g per wrapper

   - Sodium: Varies

   - Cholesterol: Varies

   - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy.

8. Plain Yogurt:

  - Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cup

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g per cup

  - Protein: Approximately 8-10g per cup

  - Fat: Approximately 5-8g per cup (varies based on fat content)

  - Sodium: Approximately 120mg per cup

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 30mg per cup

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Good source of calcium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefit: Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, and provides protein and calcium.

9. Butter:

  - Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Approximately 11-14g per tablespoon

  - Sodium: Approximately 90mg per tablespoon

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 30-40mg per tablespoon

  - Nutritional Benefit: Butter adds richness and flavor to the dish but should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

10. Red Pepper Flakes:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per teaspoon

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and capsaicin

  - Nutritional Benefit: Red pepper flakes add spice and may have metabolism-boosting properties.

11. Fresh Parsley:

  - Calories: Approximately 1 calorie per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.1g per tablespoon

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin A

  - Nutritional Benefit: Parsley adds freshness and color to the dish and is a good source of antioxidants.