Gutap

Vegetarian Gutap Recipe from Turkmenistan with Dill, Parsley, and Garlic

Region / culture: Turkmenistan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Gutap is a traditional Turkmen dish that consists of savory filled dough squares that are deep-fried to perfection. These delicious fritters are typically served with a tangy sour cream sauce, making them a popular snack or appetizer in Turkmen cuisine.

History

Gutap has been a staple in Turkmen cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. The dish is believed to have been created as a way to make use of simple ingredients like flour, butter, and herbs, while also providing a hearty and satisfying meal for families. Over the years, different variations of gutap have emerged, each with its own unique filling and flavor profile.

Ingredients

Filling

3 tbsp freshly chopped dill
3 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tbsp minced garlic
9 tbsp finely chopped scallions
1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
8 tbsp butter
1.5 tsp salt

Dough

1.5 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp salt
4 tbsp softened butter
0.67 cup lukewarm water

Sauce

1 tsp cider vinegar
0.25 cup sour cream
2 tbsp butter
0.5 tsp flour
6 tbsp finely minced onion
0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp freshly squeezed and strained lemon or lime juice

How to prepare

Dough

Place the flour into a deep mixing bowl.
Make a hollow in the center.
Add the water, salt, and 2 tsp of butter into the hollow.
Stir slowly until all of the ingredients are well mixed and the water is completely absorbed.
Beat vigorously with a large spoon until a firm, stiff dough is formed.
Gather the dough into a ball.
On a floured surface, roll the dough ball out into a rectangle approximately 16" x 18".
Brush the dough with the remaining butter, fold it into quarters, then roll it out as thinly as possible.
Cut the dough into a 16" x 18" rectangle, then cut it into 48 2" squares.

Filling

Combine the salt, pepper, scallions, garlic, parsley, and dill.
Cut the butter into tiny bits and chill until the dough is ready.
Place a teaspoon of the filling mix into the center of each square, and add a piece of butter to each.
Draw up the corners and pinch them together firmly to close the filling inside the dough.
Heat enough oil in a deep pot.
Heat the oil to 375°F (191°C), and drop in 4 – 6 of the filled squares.
Cook for 4 minutes, then remove from the oil, drain, and serve warm.

Sauce

Melt the butter, and add the chopped onions, salt, pepper, and vinegar.
Cook for 4 minutes, then add the remaining ingredients.
Stir constantly until it thickens.
Remove from the heat.
Add the lemon juice and serve over the fritters.

Variations

Try using different herbs in the filling, such as cilantro or mint, for a unique flavor profile.
Add cooked ground meat, such as lamb or beef, to the filling for a heartier version of gutap.
Experiment with different sauces, such as a spicy tomato sauce or a creamy yogurt sauce, to serve with the gutap.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roll out the dough as thinly as possible to ensure that the gutap cooks evenly and becomes crispy.

- Be sure to seal the filling inside the dough squares tightly to prevent any leakage during frying.

- Use a deep pot and enough oil to fry the gutap to ensure that they cook evenly and become golden brown.

- Serve the gutap warm with the sour cream sauce for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Gutap can be served as a snack or appetizer, alongside a fresh salad or pickled vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a main dish with a side of rice or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying: Gutap is traditionally deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. This cooking technique gives the fritters a delicious crunch and ensures that they cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dill or parsley, you can use other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint in the filling.

- Instead of butter, you can use margarine or vegetable oil in the dough and filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the gutap dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the fritters just before frying.

- The sour cream sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the gutap on a platter with a drizzle of the sour cream sauce and a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish the dish with a wedge of lime or lemon for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Gutap pairs well with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy tomato salad.

- Serve the fritters with a side of pickled vegetables or olives for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Gutap is best enjoyed fresh and hot, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the gutap in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of gutap contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of gutap contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a filling and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Fats

Gutap is a rich source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of fat. The butter used in the filling and dough adds a delicious richness to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of gutap contains approximately 5 grams of protein, making it a good source of this essential nutrient that is needed for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Gutap is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fresh herbs used in the filling. Dill, parsley, and scallions are all rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and calcium.

Alergens

Gutap contains dairy (butter and sour cream) and gluten (flour), so individuals with dairy or gluten allergies should avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, gutap is a delicious and satisfying dish that is rich in fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fresh herbs used in the filling.

Summary

Gutap is a delicious and satisfying Turkmen dish that is perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. With a crispy fried dough filled with a flavorful herb and butter mixture, gutap is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Serve it with a tangy sour cream sauce for a delicious and authentic taste of Turkmen cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Gutap. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Azerbaijan. My grandmother, who was a renowned cook in our community, had invited some of her friends over for a cooking day. I remember the excitement in the air as they gathered in our kitchen, ready to share their favorite recipes and cooking secrets.

One of my grandmother's friends, an elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, pulled out a faded and tattered piece of paper from her apron pocket. She carefully unfolded it and began to read out the ingredients for Gutap: flour, water, salt, onion, meat, and herbs. As she spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for this dish shining through her eyes.

I watched intently as she demonstrated how to prepare the dough, roll it out into thin circles, and fill it with a savory mixture of minced meat, onions, and herbs. She then showed us how to fold the dough over the filling, creating a beautiful half-moon shape before sealing the edges with a fork.

As the Gutap cooked on the griddle, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I begged my grandmother's friend to teach me, and she graciously agreed.

Over the next few hours, I watched, listened, and learned as she guided me through the steps of making Gutap. I learned how to knead the dough just right, how to season the meat filling to perfection, and how to fold and seal the Gutap with care and precision.

As we sat down to enjoy our freshly cooked Gutap, I marveled at how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious and satisfying dish. The crispy, golden-brown crust gave way to a flavorful and juicy filling, bursting with the earthy flavors of the herbs and onions.

From that day on, Gutap became a staple in our household. I would make it for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and the story of how I learned to make it with anyone who would listen. It became a symbol of tradition, connection, and love – a dish that brought people together and created memories that would last a lifetime.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills and perfect my recipe for Gutap. I experimented with different fillings and seasonings, adding my own twist to this beloved dish. But no matter how many variations I tried, the original recipe – the one that I learned from that kind and generous woman all those years ago – remained my favorite.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift that was given to me that day. The recipe for Gutap is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions – it is a piece of history, a connection to the past, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together.

And as I take a bite of the freshly cooked Gutap in front of me, savoring the flavors and memories that it holds, I can't help but smile. For in that simple, humble dish, I have found joy, comfort, and a piece of my heart.