Savory Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When the yearning for something homey and hearty strikes, there s nothing quite like preparing Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil. I first discovered this gem during a family gathering, where the aroma of spiced meat mingled with creamy garlic yogurt danced through the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen to savor what was coming. Each tiny dumpling, filled with tender meat and enveloped in a delicate dough, tells a story of tradition and love.

This dish is not only a delightful treat for your taste buds but also an engaging project for you and your loved ones. Rolling out the dough, filling each square, and then watching them transform from raw dumplings to beautifully golden bites is a rewarding experience. Best of all, these scrumptious morsels can effortlessly impress your guests or family, making them perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. So, let me guide you through this delightful journey into the world of Manti, where each bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia.

Why will you love Manti?

Unique Experience: Making Manti is more than cooking; it s a captivating hands-on activity perfect for family and friends.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory meat and garlicky yogurt creates a mouthwatering experience that s truly unforgettable.

Cultural Journey: With origins steeped in tradition, this dish shares a piece of culinary history that brings the family together.

Versatile Delight: Whether as an appetizer or main course, Manti adapts to any meal, delighting both taste buds and hearts.

Impressive Presentation: Perfectly shaped dumplings topped with spiced oil add a touch of sophistication to your table, making every dinner feel special.

Ready to take your culinary skills to the next level? Try making your own homemade dough and discover the joy of cooking together!

Manti Turkish Dumplings Ingredients

For the Dough
All-purpose flour This forms the base of your dumplings; sift for a light texture.
Sea salt Enhances the flavor of the dough; don t skip it!
Medium egg Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Water Adjust as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
Extra virgin olive oil Keeps the dough pliable; use for greasing as well.

For the Filling
Lean ground beef or lamb Provides a rich, savory flavor; feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based option.
Onion Adds sweetness and moisture; grate finely for even distribution.
Sea salt Season to taste; enhances the meat s flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper A must for adding depth to the filling.

For the Topping
Plain whole milk yogurt This creamy base balances the dish beautifully.
Garlic cloves Infuses the yogurt with a deliciously aromatic flavor; the more, the merrier!
Turkish red pepper paste or double concentrated tomato paste Adds a burst of color and flavor; adjust for spice preference.
Aleppo pepper Use for a milder heat and fruity undertone.
Dried mint Sprinkling on top adds a touch of freshness; it s also perfect for serving.
Sumac Offers a tangy contrast that elevates every bite.

Creating your own Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil promises a rich cultural experience and a deliciously satisfying meal!

How to Make Manti Turkish Dumplings

1. Sift the flour and salt into a wide bowl. Create a well in the center and add the egg, water, and olive oil. Gently draw in the flour using your hands until a dough starts to form.

2. Knead the dough on a flour-dusted surface for about 3 4 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

3. Whisk together the yogurt and minced garlic in a medium bowl. Add sea salt to taste, then cover and set aside to reach room temperature.

4. Mix the ground meat and grated onion in a large bowl, adding a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Combine well, then cover and let it rest.

5. Grease a large sheet tray with olive oil and preheat your oven to 350 °F.

6. Divide the rested dough into 3 equal pieces and roll each one into a rounded ball, keeping them covered with a damp tea towel to prevent drying out.

7. Roll out one piece of dough on a lightly floured surface, making it as thin as possible, about 12 x 10 inches. Cut into strips and then square pieces, about 1 inch each.

8. Fill each square with a small spoonful of meat mixture (similar to the size of a chickpea). Pinch the corners together to form little pouches, pressing to seal. Keep your fingers floured if the dough is sticky. Place shaped manti on the prepared tray.

9. Bake your dumplings in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until they re lightly golden. Allow them to cool before boiling.

10. Boil a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, gently add the baked dumplings, adjusting to a gentle simmer until they float, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain them and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

11. Heat oil in a wide pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add red pepper paste (or tomato paste) and stir in Aleppo pepper, dried mint, and sumac. Simmer for about one minute until fragrant.

12. Serve the manti on a warm dish, spooning garlic yogurt over the top. Drizzle with the spiced oil, and Optional: garnish with more dried mint and sumac.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Manti?

When you re ready to elevate your dining experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement the flavors of your homemade dumplings.

• Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing medley of greens brightens the palate between bites, enhancing the savory richness of the manti.

• Basmati Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs offers a fragrant backdrop, absorbing the garlicky yogurt and spiced oil beautifully for extra flavor.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring a charred sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the dumpling s richness.

• Minted Yogurt Sauce: A vibrant yogurt sauce with fresh mint mirrors the accents in the garlic yogurt, amplifying the dish s creaminess and adding a cool touch.

These pairings create a harmonious meal, offering vibrant textures and contrasts that elevate each bite of your Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.

• Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for scooping up manti and the luscious yogurt, making each bite delightful and interactive.

• Chickpea Salad: This hearty salad adds protein and a lovely nuttiness, plus it s packed with flavors that complement the manti without overwhelming them.

• SweetBaklava: For dessert, opt for a light yet sweet baklava, as its crunchy, flaky layers and honey syrup bring just the right amount of sweetness.

• Citrus Spritzer: A refreshing drink with citrus notes cuts through the richness, offering a zesty balance that enhances the whole meal experience.

How to Store and Freeze Manti Turkish Dumplings

Fridge: Store cooked Manti in an airtight container; they will last up to 3 days. Before serving, gently reheat them in a pan with a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked Manti in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen Manti, cook directly from frozen. Boil in salted water until they float, which should take about 10 minutes. Serve with your canned garlic yogurt and spiced oil!

Airtight Storage: Always ensure containers are sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn, preserving the delightful taste of your Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.

Make Ahead Options

These Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you save precious time on busy weeknights. Simply follow the initial steps to make your dough and filling, and then wrap and refrigerate each separately. When you re ready to serve, roll out and fill the dumplings as instructed, bake them, and boil right before enjoying. This way, you guarantee the manti stay just as delicious and fresh, with that delightful homemade flavor intact. Enjoy a satisfying homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Manti Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Manti and make it uniquely yours!

• Vegetarian Filling: Substitute ground meat with sautéed mushrooms and chopped spinach for a delicious plant-based twist. Texture and flavors come alive in every bite!

• Herb Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the filling for a vibrant taste that elevates your dumplings. The freshness will surprise your palate!

• Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes to the meat filling for added heat, adjusting according to your spice tolerance. Your taste buds will dance with excitement!

• Yogurt Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt for those with lactose intolerance. This provides a creamy base while catering to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Dough Variations: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat or gluten-free flour to make your dough more nutritious or accessible for gluten-sensitive guests. Each will offer a slightly different taste.

• Flavor Boost: Incorporate a dash of cumin or smoked paprika into the meat filling to enhance the depth of flavor. This subtle addition will bring a whole new dimension to your dumplings!

• Quick Cook: Steam the manti instead of boiling for a different cooking method that preserves moisture and adds a unique texture to the dumplings. The steam will keep them fluffy!

• Sweet Surprise: For dessert, create sweet manti with a filling of sweetened cheese or fruit, drizzled with honey. This unexpected twist can turn your savory dish into a delightful end to the meal!

Expert Tips for Manti

Kneading Technique: Ensure your dough is well-kneaded for a smooth texture, but don t over-knead, or it may become tough.

Dough Thickness: Roll the dough thinly to ensure the manti cook evenly and have a delightful bite. Thicker dough can lead to chewy dumplings.

Sealing Tips: For perfect pouches, make sure to press the edges tightly when sealing to prevent any filling from leaking during cooking.

Fill Wisely: Don t overfill each square; a small spoonful (about the size of a chickpea) is ideal to ensure they cook properly without bursting.

Spiced Oil Balance: Adjust spices in the olive oil to your taste, keeping in mind that Aleppo pepper brings mild heat and flavor to your Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil.

Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt Recipe FAQs

What kind of meat should I use in my Manti?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef or lamb for a traditional filling. If you re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or even a plant-based substitute can work wonderfully as well. Just adjust the seasonings as needed to match your chosen meat s flavor profile.

How do I tell if my dough is ready to use?
The dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. A quick test is to press your finger into it: if it bounces back, you re good to go! If the dough feels sticky, simply sprinkle a bit more flour while kneading until the desired texture is achieved.

Can I make Manti ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the Manti ahead of time. Once shaped but before cooking, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze for up to 3 months. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Cook them straight from frozen by boiling in salty water until they float about 10 minutes.

What s the best way to store leftover cooked Manti?
Store any leftover cooked Manti in an airtight container in the fridge. They ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil to restore some of their original flavors and textures.

Is there any way to adjust this recipe for allergies?
Definitely! If you re cooking for someone with a gluten allergy, you can use gluten-free flour to make the dough. For lactose intolerance, opt for a dairy-free yogurt option instead of traditional yogurt for the garlicky topping. Always check labels to ensure no hidden allergens are present.

How can I enhance the flavor of my garlic yogurt sauce?
For a more robust flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley into your garlic yogurt. This little twist can really elevate the dish, adding layers of taste that complement the spiced oil on top of your Manti Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt!