Classic Kutia Recipe

2022-10-31

By Ukrainian Kitchen

Ukrainian Cuisine

Dessert

Make a traditional Ukrainian dish with this easy recipe for Kutia. 

Is kutia typically served at a specific holiday or celebration?

A traditional Ukrainian dessert that is typically associated with the Christmas season. The dish originated in the central and eastern regions of Ukraine, where it was prepared for the ritual feast of Holy Supper, which takes place on Christmas Eve. 

What are the ingredients needed to make kutia?

The dish is made with wheat berries, poppy seeds, honey, and nuts, and is often garnished with fruits such as raisins or dried apricots. 

Kutia a Generational Tradition

Many families have their own special recipe for Kutia, which has been passed down through generations. Kutia is more than just a dessert, it is an important part of Ukrainian cultural heritage and is typically prepared and served in a special way. 

What is the cultural significance of kutia in Ukrainian cuisine?

It is often the first dish served during Holy Supper, and each member of the family takes turns sharing a spoonful of the dish with the person to their left as a symbol of unity and good luck for the coming year.

Pitfalls on Kutia

 Finding the right ingredients: Kutia is traditionally a dish from Eastern Europe, and finding the right ingredients can be a challenge. Some ingredients, such as wheat berries, may not be available in regular grocery stores. Look for specialty stores or online retailers that carry Eastern European ingredients.

 Preparing the wheat berries: The wheat berries need to be soaked before cooking to help remove dirt and debris. Rinse them well and soak them in water overnight. Cook them in a pot of boiling water until they're tender but still have a chewy texture. Be patient, as this can take several hours.

 Balancing flavors: Kutia is a sweet dish, but it's important to balance the sweetness with other flavors such as salt, cinnamon, and nuts. Finding the right balance of flavors is important to achieve a delicious and complex dish.

 Creating the perfect consistency: The consistency of Kutia can be challenging to achieve. The wheat berries should be tender but still have some bite. The mixture should be thick and creamy, but not too runny or too thick.

 Adding the right toppings: Kutia is typically topped with poppy seeds, honey, and nuts. The toppings not only enhance the flavor but also provide texture and crunch. Be creative and experiment with other toppings such as dried fruit, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips.

 Presenting the dish: Kutia is traditionally served at Christmas and other celebrations. It's important to present the dish beautifully. Consider serving it in bowls or small cups, and garnish with toppings. Adding a bit of honey or syrup around the edges adds a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

• 500g wheatberries

• 200g poppy seeds

• 200g honey

• 100g walnuts

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 lemon

• water

Instructions

1. Soak the wheatberries overnight, then rinse and drain. Boil in a large pot with enough water to cover the wheatberries and 1 tsp salt until tender, around 2 hours.

2. Roast the poppy seeds in a dry skillet until lightly browned, then grind them in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle until fine.

3. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet until lightly browned, then chop them finely.

4. Strain off excess water from the wheatberries and mix in the poppy seeds, honey, and walnuts.

5. Squeeze half a lemon over the kutia and stir it in well. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Preparation Time 30 min

Cook Time 120 min

Total time 150 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 300

Fat: 8 g

Saturated Fat: 1 g

Carbohydrates: 60 g

Fiber: 5 g

Sugar: 27 g

Protein: 7 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Kutia

Poltava-style Kutia: Known as "Poltavske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of wheat berries, poppy seeds, and honey, which is then topped with chopped walnuts and raisins. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Bukovyna-style Kutia: Called "Bukovynske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of rice, walnuts, and honey, which is then topped with raisins and dried apricots. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Kyiv-style Kutia: Known as "Kyivske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of wheat berries, poppy seeds, and honey, which is then topped with chopped almonds and dried cranberries. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Ternopil-style Kutia: Called "Ternopilsky Kutia", this version includes a mixture of buckwheat, poppy seeds, raisins, and honey, which is then topped with chopped walnuts and dried apricots. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Lviv-style Kutia: Known as "Lvivske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of barley, poppy seeds, and honey, which is then topped with chopped hazelnuts and dried figs. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Kharkiv-style Kutia: Called "Kharkivske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of wheat berries, sunflower seeds, and honey, which is then topped with chopped pistachios and dried cranberries. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Odessa-style Kutia: Known as "Odeske Kutia", this version includes a mixture of rice, peanuts, and honey, which is then topped with chopped cashews and dried apricots. It is typically served during Christmas and is considered a traditional festive dish in Ukraine.

Try this easy recipe for Kutia and enjoy a traditional sweet porridge that’s perfect for any holiday or special occasion! Share your lovely dish on your socials with the following hashtags #kutia #ukrainianfood #wheatberries #poppyseeds #honey #walnuts