Are you a fan of dumplings? What about ravioli? If you like good things that come in small packages, you'll be sure to love Turkish 'manti.'
'Manti' (MAHN'-tuh) is an ancient Turkish dish with a lot of history behind it. It's made from fresh dough squares filled with spiced lamb or beef that are pinched closed to make dumplings. The dumplings are steamed, boiled, baked or fried and served with a topping of garlic yogurt and various Turkish spices.
The city of Kayseri, in central Turkey, is famous for it's miniscule 'manti' topped with a tangy tomato sauce. Apparently, brides-to-be in Kayseri are expected to impress their future mother-in-laws with tiny 'manti' they prepare themselves.
It's said that in Kayseri, if you can't fit at least 40 dumplings in a spoonful, you won't be a worthy bride! Don't let this scare you away from trying 'manti' yourself.
If you're travelling to Turkey you'll be happy to know that you can find 'manti' just about everywhere. You'll find the best in restaurants that specialize in 'manti' and other dishes made with dough.
If worse comes to worse, you can buy ready-to-cook 'manti' in most grocery stores. To learn more about this beloved Turkish dish, check out my article called "If You Like Ravioli, You'll Love Turkish 'Manti.'
Photo © Elizabeth Taviloglu, 2013