Asian > Afghan > Appetizer

Mantu (Steamed Dumplings) Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup dried split chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1/2 cup dried split lentils, soaked overnight
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

Special Equipment Needed:
- Steamer
- Large bowl
- Rolling pin
- Frying pan
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and vegetable oil.
2. Gradually add the warm water and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, heat the butter and oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. Add the onion and cook until it is soft and golden.
6. Add the spices and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the chickpeas, lentils, raisins, and herbs and cook for 5 minutes.
8. Remove from the heat and stir in the yogurt.
9. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces and roll each piece into a thin circle.
10. Place 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each circle.
11. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
12. Place the dumplings in a steamer and steam for 15 minutes.

Time:
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 16 dumplings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Butter can be substituted with vegan margarine.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil.
- Dried split chickpeas can be substituted with cooked chickpeas.
- Dried split lentils can be substituted with cooked lentils.
- Raisins can be substituted with dried cranberries or dried apricots.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs.

Variations:
- The filling can be varied by adding different vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms.
- The dumplings can be served with a variety of sauces such as tomato sauce, yogurt sauce, or garlic sauce.

Tips and Tricks:
- The dough should be kneaded until it is smooth and elastic.
- The filling should be cooked until all the liquid has evaporated.
- The dumplings should be steamed for the specified amount of time to ensure they are cooked through.

Storage Instructions:
Mantu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Mantu can be reheated in the microwave or in a steamer.

Presentation Ideas:
Mantu can be served on a platter with a variety of sauces and garnishes.

Garnishes:
Mantu can be garnished with chopped fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or a dollop of yogurt.

Pairings:
Mantu can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, salad, or vegetables.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Mantu can be served with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour.
- If the filling is too wet, cook it for a few more minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
- All ingredients should be cooked thoroughly before being used in the recipe.
- All utensils and surfaces should be washed and sanitized before and after use.

Food History:
Mantu is a traditional dish from Central Asia, particularly Afghanistan. It is believed to have originated in the city of Herat in the 12th century.

Flavor Profiles:
Mantu has a savory flavor with hints of herbs and spices.

Serving Suggestions:
Mantu can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.

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Region: Afghanistan

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Aromatic, Earthy