Discover how to make Koljivo, a traditional sweet wheat-based dish commonly served during religious occasions. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together wholesome wheat, sugar, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and culturally significant treat. Perfect for special celebrations and gatherings, Koljivo offers a delightful blend of sweetness and tradition. Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare this beloved dish for your next festive event.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of wheat kernels

- 4 cups of water

- 1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves

- 1/4 cup of crushed walnuts or almonds

- 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)

- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Wheat:

  - Rinse the wheat kernels thoroughly under cold water. Soak them in a bowl of water overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften.

Cook the Wheat:

  - Drain the soaked wheat and transfer it to a large pot. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

  - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the wheat is tender and most of the water is absorbed. Stir occasionally.

Sweeten the Dish:

  - Once the wheat is cooked, add the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly.

Add Optional Ingredients:

  - If using, mix in the crushed nuts and raisins. Stir until evenly distributed. For a touch of acidity, add the lemon juice if desired.

Cool and Serve:

  - Remove from heat and let the Koljivo cool to room temperature. It can be served warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy this traditional Koljivo recipe at your next celebration, embracing the rich flavors and cultural heritage of this sweet wheat-based dish!

Nutritional values

Wheat Kernels (1 cup)

 - Calories: 340 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 72g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fiber: 10g

Benefits:

 - High in fiber, which supports digestive health.

 - Provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.

 - Contains antioxidants and protein for overall health.

Water (4 cups)

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - No significant nutrients

Benefits:

 - Essential for hydration and helps in cooking the wheat kernels.

Sugar (1 cup)

 - Calories: 387 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits:

 - Provides sweetness and energy.

 - Used to enhance flavor; however, excessive consumption should be moderated.

Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 247 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 81g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and contains antioxidants.

 - May help regulate blood sugar levels and support digestive health.

Ground Cloves (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 274 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 65g

Benefits:

 - Provides a strong flavor and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - Contains eugenol, which may aid in digestive health and pain relief.

Crushed Walnuts or Almonds (1/4 cup)

 - Calories: 654 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

 - Protein: 15g

 - Fat: 65g (mostly healthy fats)

Benefits:

 - Adds crunch and healthy fats.

 - Provides protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Raisins (1/4 cup, optional)

 - Calories: 299 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 79g

 - Protein: 3g

Benefits:

 - Adds natural sweetness and additional fiber.

 - Contains iron, potassium, and antioxidants.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, optional)

 - Calories: 29 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Vitamin C: 53 mg

Benefits:

 - Adds a tangy flavor and vitamin C.

 - Helps in digestion and can enhance the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.

This recipe combines wheat kernels with sweet and aromatic spices, nuts, and optional additions like raisins and lemon juice to create a flavorful and nutritious dish. The wheat kernels provide fiber and essential nutrients, while the spices and nuts add flavor and health benefits. Sugar and optional raisins contribute sweetness and energy, and lemon juice adds a fresh tang and additional vitamin C.