
Spiced Afghan Mantu Dumplings with Tomato Yogurt Sauce
Traditional Afghan Dumplings with a Spiced Twist
Mantu are delightful Afghan dumplings, traditionally filled with a savory ground meat mixture and served with a flavorful tomato yogurt sauce.
- 2 h 30 min
- 6
- Advanced
Ingredients
For the Dumpling Dough
For the Filling
For the Tomato Yogurt Sauce
For Garnish
Preparation
Preparing the Dumpling Dough
Combine dry ingredients
In a bowl, mix the flour and salt.
Add water and oil
Gradually add warm water and oil, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead and rest
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Ensure the dough is fully rested to achieve optimal elasticity. Use a pasta maker to roll the dough evenly thin.
Preparing the Filling
Mix filling ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Stir to combine
Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
Chill
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Process
Dumpling Assembly
Roll out the dough thinly and cut into 3-inch squares or circles. Place a small portion of filling in each, fold, and seal edges tightly.
Steaming the Mantu
Arrange dumplings in a steamer basket and steam over simmering water for 30-35 minutes.
Making the Sauce
In a saucepan, heat olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in paprika and cayenne. Add yogurt off the heat, season with salt, and stir well.
Plating & Serving

Spiced Afghan Mantu Dumplings with Tomato Yogurt Sauce
Spiced Afghan Mantu Dumplings with Tomato Yogurt Sauce
Serve
Place the steamed dumplings in a shallow dish and drizzle generously with tomato yogurt sauce.
Garnish
Sprinkle with dried mint and fresh cilantro immediately before serving.
