How to make Lipovan coliva - Kutya

Lipovan coliva, also known as Kutya, is a traditional dessert with deep roots in our culture. Over time, it has been prepared for various religious events and festivities, holding a special symbolism associated with the memory of loved ones. Today, I invite you to discover a simple and healthy version of this delicacy, using hulled wheat, an excellent alternative to traditional wheat.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 g hulled wheat
- Honey (to taste)

Ingredient details:
Hulled wheat is a cereal made from wheat, processed through roasting and grinding, which retains its nutritional properties. It is rich in fiber and protein, making it a healthy choice for any diet. Honey, on the other hand, is not only a natural sweetener but also a superfood packed with antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Together, these ingredients create a delicious and nourishing combination.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the hulled wheat:
- Start by rinsing the hulled wheat under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities and obtain a clean product.
- After washing it well, place the hulled wheat in a large pot and add about 1 liter of water. Make sure there is enough water to boil the hulled wheat without sticking.

2. Boiling:
- Place the pot over medium heat and let the hulled wheat cook. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the hulled wheat to boil for 30-40 minutes, until it becomes soft. You can check its consistency with a fork.

3. Draining:
- After the hulled wheat is cooked, drain it using a sieve or colander. It is important to remove excess water so as not to dilute the sweet taste of the dish.

4. Serving:
- Here comes the creative part! Instead of mixing the honey with the entire amount of hulled wheat, I recommend serving the hulled wheat in individual bowls and adding honey to taste. This way, you will avoid the hulled wheat hardening while sitting in the honey.

5. Personalizing:
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add cinnamon or ground nuts. These will not only enrich the taste of the coliva but will also add a nice texture.

Serving suggestions:
Lipovan coliva can be enjoyed as a healthy snack during fasting days or as an energizing breakfast. It is delicious and can be accompanied by green tea or a plant-based milk, such as almond milk.

Nutritional notes:
A 100 g serving of coliva contains about 100 kcal, making it a light caloric choice. It is a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy and contains fiber that supports digestion.

Useful tips:
- If you have time, let the hulled wheat sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to enhance the flavor.
- You can experiment with different types of honey, such as acacia honey or lavender honey, each having its own aromatic notes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use wheat instead of hulled wheat?
Yes, you can use regular wheat, but it will require longer cooking time and careful selection of the grains.

- How can I store coliva for a longer time?
It is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, but it is best enjoyed freshly made.

Lipovan coliva is a simple yet traditional and delicious recipe. I encourage you to try it and enjoy the aroma and benefits it offers. It can quickly become a favorite in your family, whether served on a lazy morning or as a healthy snack throughout the day. Enjoy!