Description
Turkish Dumplings with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Oil are delicate, handmade dumplings filled with seasoned ground lamb or beef, boiled to perfection, and served with a creamy garlic-infused yogurt sauce drizzled with a fragrant, spiced butter or olive oil. This traditional dish combines tender dough, savory meat, and vibrant spices for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup water (more as needed)
Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
Garlicky Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Spiced Butter/Oil:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the egg and water gradually, mixing until a firm dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ground lamb or beef with the finely grated onion, salt, black pepper, and cumin if using. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly and set aside.
- Roll and Fill Dumplings: Roll the rested dough out on a floured surface into a thin sheet approximately 1/16-inch thick. Cut the dough into 1.5-inch squares. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each square. Pinch the corners together firmly to seal and form each dumpling.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dumplings in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for 6 to 8 minutes or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings from the water and drain.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and salt. Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Spiced Oil: Heat butter or olive oil over medium heat in a small pan. Add paprika, red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper, and dried mint if using. Stir gently for 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to let the spices burn. Remove from heat once fragrant.
- Assemble: Arrange the cooked dumplings on serving plates. Spoon the garlicky yogurt sauce generously over the dumplings, then drizzle the hot spiced oil on top. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Resting the dough is essential to make rolling and handling easier by relaxing the gluten.
- You can substitute ground lamb with beef or a mixture of both for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili to the filling.
- Use Greek yogurt for creaminess and thickness in the yogurt sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook dumplings; once they float, they are usually done.
- Dried mint adds a traditional aromatic touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
