Ingredients:
To create the perfect kutya, gather the following ingredients:
* 1 cup wheat kernels
* 1 cup poppy seeds
* 1 cup honey
* 1 cup chopped walnuts
* Raisins (to taste)
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* Pinch of salt
Instructions:
* Preparing the Wheat:
* Rinse the wheat kernels thoroughly under cold water.
* Soak the wheat in water overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften it.
* Cooking the Wheat:
* Drain the soaked wheat and place it in a large pot.
* Add enough water to cover the wheat and a pinch of salt.
* Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the wheat is tender. This may take 1-2 hours, so be patient!
* Preparing Poppy Seeds:
* Rinse the poppy seeds and soak them in hot water for about 2 hours.
* Drain the poppy seeds and grind them using a food processor or mortar and pestle.
* Mixing the Ingredients:
* Once the wheat is cooked and cooled, mix it with the ground poppy seeds in a large bowl.
* Add honey to the mixture, adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
* Stir in the chopped walnuts and raisins.
* Final Touch:
* In a small pan, heat vegetable oil until it's warm but not too hot.
* Drizzle the warm oil over the kutya and mix well. This adds a glossy finish to the dish.
* Presentation:
* Transfer the kutya to a decorative dish or a traditional Ukrainian "kutia" bowl.
* Garnish with additional chopped nuts and raisins for a festive touch.
* Serve and Enjoy:
* Kutya is traditionally served at room temperature. Allow the flavors to meld by letting it sit for a few hours before serving.
* Enjoy this heartwarming dish with loved ones as part of the Holy Supper on Christmas Eve.

Crafting kutya is not just about combining ingredients; it's a celebration of tradition and a connection to Ukrainian heritage. As the sweet aroma fills your kitchen and the flavors blend in harmony, you'll find yourself immersed in the magic of Ukrainian Christmas, where each spoonful is a taste of love, togetherness, and the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations.
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