Ukrainian Christmas Kutya Kutia

Celebrate tradition and flavor with Ukrainian Christmas Kutya (Kutia), a cherished holiday dish brimming with wholesome ingredients and rich symbolism. This classic recipe combines tender wheat berries, nutty ground poppy seeds, crunchy walnuts, sweet raisins, and golden honey to create a hearty and naturally sweet treat that's perfect for festive gatherings. Soaked raisins and poppy seeds lend the dish a delightful texture, while optional cream or milk adds a creamy twist for those who prefer a richer version. Traditionally served as the first dish during a Ukrainian Christmas feast, this kutya is a beautiful blend of simplicity and depth. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it's more than a recipe—it's a culinary connection to generations of holiday traditions.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup wheat berries
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup poppy seeds
• 1 cup walnuts (chopped)
• 0.5 cup raisins (golden or regular)
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 2 cups water (for soaking poppy seeds and raisins)
• 2 tablespoons optional sugar
• 0.25 cup optional cream or milk

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the wheat berries under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the wheat berries and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the wheat berries are tender but still slightly chewy. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 3

Place the poppy seeds in a bowl and cover with 1 cup of boiling water. Let them soak for 30 minutes. Drain and grind them using a food processor or mortar and pestle until they have a paste-like consistency.

Step 4

While the poppy seeds soak, soak the raisins in 1 cup of warm water for 15-20 minutes to plump them up. Drain and set aside.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wheat berries, ground poppy seeds, chopped walnuts, soaked raisins, and honey. Mix well to combine.

Step 6

Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness with additional honey or sugar if desired.

Step 7

For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of cream or milk (optional).

Step 8

Cover the bowl and let the kutya sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Serve cold or at room temperature as part of your Ukrainian Christmas feast. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2130.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2828.2

Total Fat 134.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 67.0mg	0%
Sodium 89.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 374.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 55.1g	0%
Total Sugars 160.0g
Protein 69.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1326.9mg	0%
Iron 20.9mg	0%
Potassium 2816.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.6%

Protein: 9.3%

Carbs: 50.1%