Description
This Red Kuri Squash and Goat’s Cheese Manti recipe features tender, roasted red kuri squash combined with creamy goat’s cheese, encased in a delicate homemade dough. The dumplings are boiled until they float and then pan-seared for a crisp, golden finish. Seasoned with cumin and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Squash Filling
- 1 medium red kuri squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 200g goat’s cheese, crumbled
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup water (more if needed)
- Pinch of salt
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced red kuri squash in olive oil, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized. Once done, allow it to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Create a well in the center, then add the egg and water gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Roll out the Dough: Divide the dough into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness, ensuring it is evenly thin.
- Cut Dough Circles: Using a 3-inch round cutter or glass, cut out circles from the rolled dough to form the manti wrappers.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the roasted red kuri squash with crumbled goat’s cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavor.
- Fill and Seal Manti: Place about one teaspoon of the filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form half-moon shapes and pinch the edges firmly to seal the filling inside.
- Boil the Manti: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the manti in batches into the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the dumplings rise to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
- Sauté the Manti: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked manti and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the sautéed manti to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading.
- Adjust water quantity slightly as needed to form a smooth dough.
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives add a fresh contrast; feel free to experiment with mint or dill.
- You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and refrigerate before cooking.
- Ensure the dumplings are sealed well to prevent filling from leaking during boiling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling and Frying
- Cuisine: Turkish