Semolina dumplings

Blini with semolina – a delightful dish that brings a touch of warmth and comfort to your table. They are a perfect choice for breakfast or a savory snack at any time of the day. The history of blini is fascinating, with deep roots in traditional kitchens, where simple ingredients were transformed into delicious dishes through ingenious methods. Today, I will share with you a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to impress family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups flour
- 3.5 cups milk
- 3/4 cup semolina
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil

Step 1: Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, combine fresh yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Knead the ingredients well until they turn into a liquid paste. Add 2-3 tablespoons of warm milk and mix until smooth. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 10-15 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This is an essential step, as active yeast will ensure a fluffy texture for the blini.

Step 2: Preparing the semolina
In a saucepan, bring 1.5 cups of milk to a boil. Once the milk starts boiling, gradually add the semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture over low heat until the semolina absorbs the milk and becomes a homogeneous composition, about 5-7 minutes. Once ready, let it cool.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the flour and the cooled semolina mixture. Then, add the activated yeast mixture and the 3 eggs. Mix well with a spatula or whisk until you achieve a homogeneous composition. A dough slightly thicker than pancake batter will form. If desired, you can also add a pinch of salt for a richer taste.

Step 4: Frying the blini
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. Using a ladle or a large spoon, pour the batter into the skillet, forming a layer slightly thicker than that for pancakes. Fry the blini for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden and fluffy. Make sure to turn them carefully to avoid breaking.

Step 5: Assembling
As the blini are ready, place them in a greased pot, one on top of the other. Cover the pot with a lid and keep it on the stove, in a vessel with hot water, for 15-20 minutes. This step will ensure that the blini remain warm and moist.

Step 6: Serving
Blini are served warm, spread with melted butter, sprinkled with grated cheese, or even with chopped boiled eggs. A delicious alternative is to accompany them with sour cream, which will add a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that the yeast is fresh to achieve a well-risen dough.
- You can experiment with adding spices, such as vanilla or lemon zest, to give the blini a special flavor.
- If you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the milk with yogurt or plant-based milk.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the activation instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the blini for later consumption?
Blini keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or oven.

3. Can I add other ingredients, such as vegetables or meat?
Blini are very versatile, so you can add ingredients of your choice to transform them into a savory dish.

With this blini with semolina recipe, you will bring a touch of tradition and flavor to your kitchen. Feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones and experiment with various variations to create your own unique dish. Enjoy your meal!