Pan-Seared Semolina Dumplings with Sweetened Sour Cream and Berries

Name: Pan-Seared Semolina Dumplings with Sweetened Sour Cream and Berries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 150 g fine semolina; 500 ml whole milk; 50 g granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 30 g unsalted butter, divided; 150 g sour cream; 30 g powdered sugar; 150 g mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries); 1 tbsp honey; Zest of 1 lemon

Soft, lightly crisp semolina dumplings pan-seared to a golden finish, served with a creamy, tangy sweetened sour cream and fresh berries for a rich Eastern European-inspired dessert.

Prep20 minCook15 minTotal35 minServes4Difficultymedium

Method

How to make it

01
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation.
02
Slowly whisk in the semolina, sugar, and salt, reducing heat to low; cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy, about 5 minutes.
03
Remove from heat and stir in the egg and vanilla extract quickly until fully incorporated and smooth.
04
Transfer the semolina mixture to a greased shallow dish; spread evenly and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
05
Once firm, cut the chilled semolina into 8 equal squares or rectangles.
06
Heat 15 g butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until foaming; add half of the dumplings and pan-sear until golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining butter and dumplings.
07
In a small bowl, gently whisk together sour cream, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and honey until smooth and sweetened to taste.
08
Divide the pan-seared dumplings among 4 plates; spoon the sweetened sour cream on top and scatter fresh berries around the plate to serve.

From the editor

Cooking tips

Use fine semolina rather than coarse for a smoother dumpling texture.
Chilling the semolina base makes it easier to cut into clean shapes and prevents crumbling during pan-searing.
If fresh berries are unavailable, thawed frozen berries work well and provide natural sweetness and moisture.
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for sour cream and use vegan butter.

Published May 30, 2026