Manchu-style Aushak

Ingredients

In this Manchu-style adaptation of Aushak, we incorporate elements of Manchu cuisine to create a unique fusion dish. While the original Afghan Aushak is typically served with a yogurt-based sauce, we substitute it with a tangy tomato sauce to align with the flavors of Manchu cuisine. Additionally, we enhance the filling by incorporating Manchu spices and flavors, giving the dish a distinct taste that sets it apart from the traditional Afghan version. We alse have the original recipe for Aushak, so you can check it out.

• For the dumplings: For the dumplings:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 pound (225g) ground meat (beef or pork) 1/2 pound (225g) ground meat (beef or pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the tomato sauce: For the tomato sauce:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro or parsley) Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro or parsley)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the dumpling dough. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper for the dumpling filling. Set aside.
3. 3.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
4. 4.
   Place a small spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle in half and seal the edges by pressing them together firmly.
5. 5.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon and set aside.
6. 6.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
7. 7.
   Add the diced tomatoes, sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
8. 8.
   To serve, place the cooked dumplings on a platter and pour the tomato sauce over them. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground meat — Ensure the meat is well-cooked and no longer pink before using it as a filling for the dumplings.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Grate it finely to incorporate it evenly into the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with different herbs for garnish to add your own twist to the dish.
• Serve the Manchu-style Aushak as an appetizer or a main course, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles.

Serving advice

Serve the Manchu-style Aushak hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the dumplings on a platter and pour the tomato sauce over them, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an attractive presentation.