Omani-style Stuffed Dumplings

Ingredients

While the original Czech dish, Vrtanek, is a sweet pastry, the Omani-style stuffed dumplings take a savory twist. The filling is made with spiced meat and vegetables, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. Additionally, the cooking technique is different, as the Omani-style dumplings are steamed instead of baked. We alse have the original recipe for Vrtanek, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the 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) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1/2 pound (250g) ground beef or lamb 1/2 pound (250g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro
• For serving: For serving:
• Yogurt sauce Yogurt sauce
• Fresh lemon wedges Fresh lemon wedges

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt for the dough. Gradually add the warm water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. 3.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal the dumplings.
5. 5.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Place the dumplings in a steamer basket and steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is tender.
6. 6.
   Serve the Omani-style stuffed dumplings hot, accompanied by yogurt sauce and fresh lemon wedges.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or lamb — Make sure to use lean ground meat for a healthier option. You can also mix both beef and lamb for a more flavorful filling.
• Fresh parsley and cilantro — Wash the herbs thoroughly and pat them dry before chopping. The fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor to the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Experiment with different fillings by adding vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots.
• To save time, you can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of fragrant basmati rice for a complete meal.
• If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a colander placed over a pot of boiling water as an alternative.

Serving advice

Serve the Omani-style stuffed dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Accompany them with a refreshing yogurt sauce and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dumplings for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Omani-style stuffed dumplings on a platter, showcasing their golden-brown exterior. Garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs for an elegant touch. Serve the yogurt sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping.