How to Make Authentic Kyrgyz Manti: Steamed Dumplings with Spiced Lamb Filling

Simple Summary

Kyrgyz Manti are delicious steamed dumplings filled with savory meat and onions, a beloved Central Asian comfort food that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

For the yogurt sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, warm water, and oil. Mix and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling: Combine ground lamb, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, and parsley in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles using a cookie cutter or glass.

4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the edges up and pinch to seal, creating a round dumpling shape.

5. Prepare a steamer by lining the baskets with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.

6. Arrange the manti in the steamer baskets, leaving space between each for expansion.

7. Steam the manti for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is hot.

8. While the manti are steaming, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing all ingredients in a small bowl.

9. Serve the hot manti immediately, drizzled with yogurt sauce and garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Chef's Notes

• For a leaner option, substitute ground beef or turkey for the lamb.
• The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
• If you don't have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a colander or metal strainer set inside.
• Leftover manti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for 5-7 minutes.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (based on 6 servings): Approximately 420 calories, 22g protein, 45g carbohydrates, 18g fat. Manti are a good source of protein and contain iron from the lamb. The yogurt sauce adds calcium and probiotics.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kyrgyz Manti as a main course with a side of fresh tomato and cucumber salad. For a complete Central Asian meal, pair with plov (rice pilaf) and a refreshing glass of kompot (fruit drink). Garnish with fresh dill or cilantro for added flavor and presentation.