Kutia with Poppy Seeds and Honey
A traditional sweet grain pudding, typically served during Christmas and other important celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Wheat berries(or hulled barley)
- 600 ml Water
- 150 g Poppy seeds
- 150 g Honey(or to taste)
- 100 g Walnuts(chopped, toasted)
- 50 g Raisins(optional)
- 1-2 tbsp Sugar(optional, if honey is not sweet enough)
- 1 tsp Orange zest(optional, for added flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the wheat berries thoroughly under cold water. Place them in a saucepan with 600ml of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until tender and most of the water is absorbed. Drain any excess water.
⏱️ 1 hour - 2
While the wheat is cooking, prepare the poppy seeds. Pour boiling water over the poppy seeds in a bowl, cover, and let them soak for about 30 minutes. Drain the water thoroughly.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Grind the soaked poppy seeds using a mortar and pestle or a food processor until they release their milky liquid. This process can take some time.
💡 Tip: Alternatively, you can use pre-ground poppy seeds, but soaking and grinding fresh ones yields a better texture and flavor. - 4
In a large bowl, combine the cooked wheat berries, ground poppy seeds, honey, and chopped toasted walnuts. If using, add raisins and orange zest.
- 5
Mix all ingredients well until thoroughly combined. Taste and add more honey or a little sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
💡 Tip: The consistency should be moist but not soupy. Adjust with a little warm water or more honey if needed. - 6
Transfer the kutia to a serving dish. It can be served immediately or chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the wheat berries are cooked until tender but not mushy.
- ✓Grinding the poppy seeds is crucial for releasing their flavor and creating the characteristic texture.
- ✓Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less honey.
🔄 Variations
- Use other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
- Add dried cranberries or dried apricots for a different fruity note.
- Some recipes include a small amount of melted butter for richness.