Mantu
Steamed dumplings filled with spiced ground meat (usually beef or lamb) and topped with yogurt and dried mint.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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Mantu's origins are traced back to the Silk Road, reflecting influences from Central Asian and possibly Mongolian cuisine. The dish evolved over centuries, adapting to local ingredients and culinary traditions within Afghanistan. The use of wheat-based dumplings and meat fillings is common throughout the region, suggesting a shared culinary heritage.
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Mantu is a popular dish in Afghanistan, often served on special occasions and holidays. It is also a common street food, enjoyed by people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Celebratory Dish
Mantu is often prepared for special occasions like Eid, weddings, and family gatherings, signifying abundance and celebration.
Community Cooking
Making Mantu can be a labor-intensive process, so it's often a collaborative effort among family members, strengthening bonds and passing down culinary traditions.
Street Food Staple
Mantu is a readily available and affordable street food, providing a quick and satisfying meal for those on the go.
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Mantu offers a savory and subtly spiced flavor profile, balanced by the cooling richness of yogurt and the aromatic freshness of dried mint.
The dominant flavor is the savory spiced ground meat filling (typically beef or lamb), seasoned with onions, garlic, coriander, and other spices like cumin and sometimes a touch of chili. Steaming allows the meat to remain tender and juicy. The yogurt topping provides a tangy and creamy counterpoint to the rich meat, while dried mint adds a bright, herbaceous aroma and flavor. Some variations might include a tomato-based sauce, adding another layer of complexity and sweetness.
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Meat Filling Preparation
Finely mince the meat or use a food processor to achieve a delicate texture. Don't overcook the onions before adding them to the meat; they should be translucent but not browned. Balance the spices to your liking, but don't be afraid to be generous with coriander.
Dumpling Wrapping
Roll the dough thinly for delicate dumplings. Use a small amount of filling in each dumpling to ensure even cooking. Seal the edges tightly to prevent the filling from escaping during steaming.
Steaming Technique
Use a multi-tiered steamer if possible to cook a large batch at once. Line the steamer baskets with parchment paper or lightly oil them to prevent sticking. Ensure the water is boiling vigorously before adding the dumplings to the steamer.
Yogurt Topping
Use thick, creamy yogurt (Greek yogurt works well) for the topping. Whisk it until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.
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