Kutia (Ukrainian Traditional)

2 c Wheat

3 qt Water

1 c Poppy seeds

2/3 c Sugar

1/3 c Honey (dissolved in 3/4 cup

-hot water) 1/2 c Chopped walnuts

1 Apple cut into 1/4 inch

-squares This is the ritual first dish of the 12 course Christmas Eve Supper. The wheat represents the staff of life, the honey represents the Spirit of Christ Dry wheat in 250 degree oven for one hour, stir occasionaly. Wash, soak in cold water overnight. Next morning, bring wheat to boiling point, simmer for 3 - 4 hours, until kernels burst open. Scald poppy seed, simmer for 3 - 5 minutes. Drain, grind twice using the finest blade of food chopper. Set aside. Combine honey and sugar in hot water. Set aside. After all ingredients have cooled, combine in one bowl and add the chopped apples (if desired). This dish is to be served cold and will not keep well at room temperature. Store in fridge until ready to serve. If anyone found this to be interesting, leave me a message and I can post more of the traditional Ukrainian dishes.