Step by Step to Preparing Koliva for Memorial Services

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: pecans

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Pecans provide similar flavor and texture.

almonds

🥗Healthier: cashews

💰Cheaper: peanuts

Cashews are creamy and rich, while peanuts are more economical.

pomegranate seeds

💰Cheaper: dried cranberries

Dried cranberries are a more affordable alternative with a similar tartness.

Spread the whole wheat berries in a jelly roll pan and inspect for small pebbles and dark grains.

Rinse the wheat with cool water in a large pot until the water clears.

Fill the pot with plenty of water to allow movement when boiling.

Boil the wheat for 20 to 30 minutes until tender, skimming off foam as necessary.

Drain the wheat in a large colander and rinse well with fresh cold water, stirring with your hand to release the starch until the water is clear.

Return the wheat to the colander and let sit for a few minutes.

Layer a clean towel and a lint-free sheet to dry the wheat, then spread the wheat on the sheet.

Wait 12 hours or until the next day.

Drizzle honey into the wheat and mix by hand to keep it tender and coated.

Toast chopped walnuts, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds.

Add chopped parsley, raisins, spices, almonds, and walnuts to the wheat and mix together.

Pour the wheat mixture into a decorative bowl.

Grind the toasted sesame seeds into a grit and fold over the mixture when almost done.

Spread the ground sesame seeds over the mixture and pat down to create a barrier for the powdered sugar.

Using a piece of wax paper, press down the powdered sugar to a smooth surface.

When the powdered sugar is smooth, decorate with Jordan almonds, raisins, nuts, and cinnamon.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens