Lunch or dinner · Central Anatolia

Mantı

Say it: man-tuh

Tiny folded dumplings, most famously associated with Kayseri, served beneath garlicky yoghurt and sizzling red-pepper butter.

Mantı ready to eat

What it tastes like

Tender, tangy and rich, with warm spice, dried mint and a satisfying contrast between yoghurt and butter.

How to order it

Eat it as soon as it lands so the yoghurt stays cool and the pepper butter remains fragrant. Add sumac or pul biber to taste.

Good beside it

  • A crisp shepherd’s salad
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Turkish tea afterwards

Dietary note

Usually contains wheat, dairy and meat. Vegetarian versions exist but should be clearly confirmed.