French-inspired Stuffed Dumplings

Ingredients

In this French adaptation of Afghan mantu, we incorporate French culinary techniques and flavors. The traditional Afghan mantu is typically served with yogurt and a spiced meat sauce, while the French-inspired version is accompanied by a rich tomato sauce. The filling also includes French herbs and spices, adding a distinct flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Afghan mantu, so you can check it out.

• Dumpling dough: Dumpling dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• Filling: Filling:
• 1/2 pound (225g) ground beef 1/2 pound (225g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Tomato sauce: Tomato sauce:
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs, for garnish Fresh herbs, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt for the dumpling dough. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper for the filling.
3. 3.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is thin. Cut the dough into small squares, approximately 2 inches in size.
4. 4.
   Place a small amount of the filling in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle and pinch the edges to seal.
5. 5.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic for the tomato sauce and sauté until translucent.
7. 7.
   Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. 8.
   Serve the French-inspired stuffed dumplings with the tomato sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Make sure to use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey if desired.
• Fresh herbs — If fresh herbs are not available, you can use dried herbs instead. However, reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the filling and tomato sauce in advance and refrigerate them until ready to use.
• Serve the stuffed dumplings with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling to customize the flavors to your liking.
• If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the French-inspired stuffed dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs. Accompany them with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed dumplings on a platter, drizzle the tomato sauce over them, and sprinkle with fresh herbs for an appetizing presentation. Serve with a side of salad or vegetables to add color and freshness to the plate.