Griz Knedli Juha (Croatian Semolina Dumpling Soup)
Light, comforting, and nostalgic—this traditional Croatian soup features tender semolina dumplings in a delicate broth.
🍲 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Dumplings (Knedle):
- ½ cup (80g) fine semolina (griz – or cream of wheat)
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 large egg yolk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for color)
For the Broth:
- 6 cups (1.5L) clear chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
- 1 small parsnip, julienned (optional)
- Fresh dill, for garnish
👩🍳 Traditional Preparation
1. Prepare the Semolina Dumplings
- Cook semolina: In a pot, bring milk, butter, and salt to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in semolina.
- Stir constantly over low heat for 2-3 minutes until thick and pulling away from the sides.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then mix in egg yolk and parsley. Rest for 5 minutes.
2. Shape the Knedle
- With wet hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (or quenelles).
3. Cook the Soup
- Simmer broth with carrots, celery, and parsnip for 8-10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Gently add dumplings and cook for 5 minutes until they float.
4. Serve
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh dill.
💡 Tips for Authentic Flavor
✔ Broth matters: Use homemade chicken broth for depth.
✔ Keep dumplings light: Don’t overmix the semolina.
✔ Grandma’s trick: Add a dash of lemon juice to the broth for brightness.
🍴 Croatian Way to Enjoy
- Serve as a starter before mains like puretina s mlincima (chicken with flatbread).
- Pair with crusty šunka (ham) bread.
A taste of Croatian kitchens—simple, nourishing, and full of love! 🇭🇷
(Note: Dumplings are best eaten fresh—they absorb broth over time.)
