If you've never shared Koliva in memory of a loved one, this is a special treat with symbolic meaning. (Seems like most traditional Church foods have symbolic meanings!) Wheat kernels must fall to the ground and die in order to create new life (Gospel of St. John 12:24), just as our souls and bodies must come to an end of our earthly sojourn in order to pass into new life in eternity. 2 cups of wheat berries (the "soft" ones cook faster; can usually find these from health food store) 1/2 c. chopped walnuts 1 c. white raisins (or whatever dried fruits you prefer) 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup slivered almonds 1 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp cumin (optional) 1 cup finely ground zweiback toasts or graham crackers (optional) 1 cup powdered sugar dragees or more nuts/ raisins for decoration Day 1. Cover and soak berries overnight. Day 2. Drain & rinse. Cover with water in large pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 1-3 hours, until puffy and tender (keep covered with water and stir occasionally). A rice cooker or instant pot works great too. Drain in a colander; rinse and drain again. Spread the wheat our on a smooth dish towel to dry overnight. (Don't spread them on a terry cloth bath towel. Please. Trust me.) You can just dry them for a couple of hours if you don't have an extra day :) Day 3. Light a candle and pray. Mix all ingredients. You may decide to bring the mix to church to assemble. One time, when I arrived, another dear sister in Christ added a Lebanese spice and I wish I could tell you what it was - maybe star anise? In any case, put combined mixture on a tray that has been covered with wax paper. Heap in a mound toward center and press to make smooth. To top it: First sprinkle with 1 cup of finely ground zweiback toast or graham cracker crumbs, and then sift on the powdered sugar. (the crumbs keep the sugar from absorbing and disappearing into the wheat). Make a cross in the center with koufeta, dragees, nuts, raisins, etc. (This is Carol's Koliva) May Their Memory Be Eternal! (from the 2008 archives - I think it's worth sharing again)
