Flavors of UkrainePreparation time: 20 minutes
Preheat oven at 120° C (250° F)
Soaking: Overnight
Cooking time: 4 hours

Kutia is a symbol of fertility and abundance on the Ukrainian table. It is a traditional component of the Ukrainian Christmas Eve meal of 12 meatless dishes. It is generally served cold.

Some people like their kutia sweeter, in which case you can add sugar or some additional honey.

For an updated, though non-traditional, version, you can add some citrus zest, dried fruit, almonds or other nuts.

1. Spread the wheat on a baking sheet and place in a 120° C (250° F) oven to dry for an hour.
2. Wash the wheat in cold water and soak overnight.
3. The next day, bring 6 to 8 cups of water to a boil with a pinch of salt and simmer the wheat for 3 to 4 hours, until the kernels burst and the liquid has thickened.
4. Meanwhile, scald the poppy seed and drain it. Place in a small saucepan, cover again with water and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain, and put through a food grinder twice.
5. Combine the honey and boiling water. Stir the honey mixture, poppy seed and chopped walnuts into the cooled wheat mixture. Refrigerate. Serve cold.

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Photo: Tanya Panamaroff, Musée Ukraina Museum, Saskatoon