Afghan Beef Raviolis (Mantwo) Recipe

Cook Time: 85 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

• cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cups chopped onion
• 1 cup water
• 1 carrot, grated
• teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoons ground coriander
• teaspoon ground cumin
• 26 wonton wrappers
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons water
• cup dried yellow split peas
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• 1 cups water

Directions

1. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, mint, and garlic. Place in the refrigerator to chill.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions, stirring occasionally to crumble the meat, until it is browned. Drain the fat.
3. Add 1 cup of water, grated carrot, salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoons of ground coriander, and teaspoon of ground cumin to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the water evaporates and the mixture thickens.
4. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a piece of aluminum foil. Place two large spoonfuls of the beef mixture in the center of each wrapper.
5. Dip your finger in water and trace it around all four edges of the wonton wrapper to help seal them.
6. Place a second wonton wrapper on top of the first and press all edges to seal. Fold the edges to form a round, hat-shaped ravioli.
7. Repeat this process to make a total of 13 ravioli.
8. Place the ravioli in a steamer and steam them for 40 minutes.
9. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, mix the yellow split peas, 1/8 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, teaspoon of ground cumin, chicken bouillon, and 1 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer over medium-low for about 45 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a slurry-like consistency.
10. In the large skillet, combine the remaining beef mixture with 2 tablespoons of water, tomato paste, and 1/8 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the liquid evaporates.
11. To serve, spread the yogurt mixture on a serving plate. Top with the steamed ravioli, then add the split pea mixture. Finally, spoon the tomato and beef mixture on top. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 506
• Fat: 16g
• Carbs: 57g
• Protein: 34g

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe	Calories
4	506

Daily Values

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Total Fat	16g	20%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Cholesterol	76mg	25%
Sodium	1173mg	51%
Total Carbohydrate	57g	21%
Dietary Fiber	9g	33%
Total Sugars	9g	-
Protein	34g	68%
Vitamin C	6mg	6%
Calcium	172mg	13%
Iron	6mg	32%
Potassium	824mg	18%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Afghan Beef Raviolis, also known as Mantwo, is a popular dish in Afghan cuisine that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. This dish features delicate dumplings stuffed with seasoned ground beef and served with a flavorful mint yogurt sauce and split peas. It is often served as a main dish or as an appetizer during festive occasions and gatherings.

History and Origins

The origins of Mantwo can be traced to the rich culinary traditions of Afghanistan, where it is considered a comfort food enjoyed by families across the country. Afghan cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's geography, with flavors from Persia, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent coming together in various dishes. Mantwo is believed to have been influenced by Turkish and Central Asian dumplings, especially given the similarities to Turkish Manti, which are also made of dough filled with seasoned meat. Historically, Mantwo was a dish that showcased the Afghan love for complex flavors and communal meals, often served during large family gatherings or celebratory events.

Regional Features

While Mantwo is popular throughout Afghanistan, regional variations do exist. In urban centers like Kabul, youll find a more refined version, often served in upscale restaurants with a modern twist. In rural areas, Mantwo is typically homemade, with families passing down their own versions of the recipe. Some regions prefer using lamb instead of beef for a more authentic taste, as lamb is a more common meat in Afghanistan. Additionally, the choice of spices can vary, with coriander, cumin, and turmeric being staples, but families may also experiment with other regional ingredients.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

Although Afghan Beef Raviolis share similarities with other dumpling dishes like Turkish Manti or Central Asian pelmeni, what makes Mantwo unique is its combination of flavors. The dish is not only filled with savory meat but also incorporates grated carrots, creating a contrast in texture. The addition of split peas, cooked to a thick, slurry-like consistency, offers a unique depth of flavor. The accompanying minted yogurt sauce provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the beef filling. Unlike other dumplings, Mantwo is steamed rather than boiled, giving it a softer, more delicate texture.

Where Mantwo Is Typically Served

In Afghanistan, Mantwo is a beloved dish that is typically served in the home, especially during significant family events such as weddings, Eid celebrations, or the Afghan New Year (Nowruz). It is also a popular dish in Afghan restaurants around the world, especially in cities with large Afghan populations. In some parts of Afghanistan, Mantwo is served as a street food, where vendors prepare fresh dumplings and serve them to customers on the go, often paired with fresh herbs and yogurt sauces. This dish is also a favorite for family gatherings, where the labor-intensive preparation process becomes part of the communal cooking experience.

Interesting Facts About Afghan Beef Raviolis

• Afghan Dumpling Variations: While Mantwo is made with ground beef, in some Afghan regions, the filling might include lamb, chicken, or even vegetables, depending on availability and preference.
• Healthier Option: Afghan Beef Raviolis can be made healthier by substituting the beef for ground turkey or lamb. Additionally, the dish is often served with a yogurt-based sauce, making it a good source of protein and calcium.
• Steamed Perfection: Steaming the raviolis ensures they stay moist and tender, a cooking method that sets them apart from fried dumplings or those that are boiled.
• A Family Affair: In Afghanistan, the process of making Mantwo is often a family activity, where multiple hands work together to assemble the dumplings, highlighting the communal nature of Afghan cuisine.

Conclusion

Afghan Beef Raviolis (Mantwo) offer a unique taste of Afghanistans rich culinary heritage. From its humble origins in Afghan kitchens to its popular presence in restaurants, Mantwo has become a symbol of the countrys love for flavorful, hearty dishes. Whether served during special occasions or as a comforting family meal, this dish brings together the flavors of beef, spices, and yogurt in a way that delights the palate. So, the next time you're looking to try something different, consider making Mantwo to experience the authentic taste of Afghan cuisine.

FAQ about Afghan Beef Raviolis (Mantwo) Recipe

Comments