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ukrainian kutia wheat pudding recipe

Ukrainian Kutia Wheat Pudding Recipe

Ukrainian Kutia is a traditional Christmas wheat pudding made with wheat berries, poppy seeds, honey, nuts, and dried fruits. It’s sweet, chewy, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup wheat berries whole wheat grains
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
  • 1/2 cup dried fruits raisins, chopped dates, apricots
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or orange zest

Method
 

  1. Cook the wheat berries: Rinse wheat berries under cold water. Combine with water and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1–1.5 hours until tender. Drain and let cool.
  2. Prepare the poppy seeds: Soak poppy seeds in boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain and grind to release aroma.
  3. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked wheat berries and ground poppy seeds. Stir in honey.
  4. Add nuts and dried fruits: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds and dried fruits evenly. Optional: add vanilla extract or orange zest for extra flavor.
  5. Serve: Let Kutia rest at room temperature or chill. Drizzle extra honey on top if desired.

Notes

  • You can soak wheat berries overnight to shorten cooking time.
  • For a creamier version, add a splash of milk or plant-based cream.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust honey sweetness according to taste.