Koliva (Memorial Dish)
By: Eleni Saltas
The tradition of offering Koliva, a wheat berry-based dish, is deeply rooted in Orthodox traditions. It is a staple at Orthodox Christian memorial services, most commonly for 40-day or annual anniversaries of a loved one’s passing. As it symbolizes eternal life, it is an especially important component of such services.
The first time I made koliva was in 2019, following the passing of my Papou Chris Metos, who was a beacon of positivity for his entire 96 years of life. After decorating and shaping the koliva into a mound, I brought it to the church to be blessed on his 40 day memorial. To my surprise, many congregants asked for a recipe, which I regrettably lacked because at that time I honestly just combined several recipes from different sources and Greek neighbors.
Although the process is beautiful and an honor to make, I had hoped to not make koliva for a long time. However, in October 2023—my Yiayia Stella Rose Saltas died at the remarkable age of 96, mirroring my Papou Chris’ longevity. I learned a lot from her: the power of family, how to laugh at the little things, how to cook and how to enjoy the company of others thanks to her love of bingo. With her passing, my kitchen lost its melody. As the 40 day memorial of her passing approached, I knew I had to make a koliva for her. I didn’t have to, I wanted to. I wanted the kitchen to sing again. I wanted to honor my yiayia.
-The ingredients of Koliva represent numerous stages of our life and death cycles. The wheat berries represent the body of the deceased and are an expression of eternal life. While slowly boiling the wheat berries and laying the grains out to dry, my thoughts quickly fell upon my yiayia. She took her time with everything—cooking, walking, talking and right then I felt her with me still.
The warm spices of cinnamon and clove that coat the koliva represent a life well lived. I added extra for Yiayia Stella Rose. Heaven promises no sadness or sorrow, so adding a pop of green from parsley (or mint) is used to impart that message. A dusty layer of powdered sugar symbolizes the sweet welcome into heaven and life with Christ. I know she is happy, looking down on her family. She always smiled. Throughout the process I was comforted, also while mourning and remembering the life of my sweet Stella Saltas, who’s memory I’ll always hold dear.
While mostly associated with Orthodox Christian ceremonies today, the roots of koliva trace back to Ancient Greece. The tradition has endured through the centuries. Crafting koliva weaves tradition, faith, and a celebration of life and the eternal connection with those who have passed on.
Dedicated to Chris Metos (born June 28, 1922-died April 26, 2019) and Stella Saltas (born October 14, 1927-died October 15, 2023).
Two days before:
Soak the wheat in the morning or overnight.
One day before:
Boil the wheat and let it dry for at least 4 hours to overnight (no more than 8 hours).
Night before:
Transfer to a bowl and mix ingredients together, cover and refrigerate.
Morning of service:
Decorate with powdered sugar and toppings.
Ingredients
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3 cups wheat berries*
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1 cinnamon stick (optional)
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3 heaping tablespoons honey
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¾ cups walnuts, chopped
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¾ cups almonds, chopped
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1 pomegranate, deseeded
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1 cup dried cranberries
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¼ cup raisins
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½ cups graham cracker, lightly crushed
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½ teaspoon ground cloves
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3 teaspoons cinnamon
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Topping: -
1 ½ cups graham cracker, lightly crushed
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powdered sugar, for dusting (as needed)
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White Jordan almonds, for decorating
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
Prep: Rinse the wheat berries thoroughly, and then soak in water for 8 hours or overnight. Discard any wheat berry “skins” that rise to the surface.
Step 2
When ready, drain and cook the wheat in a pot of boiling water until tender but not mushy (about 45 minutes to 1 hour). I like to add a cinnamon stick to the water while the wheat is boiling for extra flavor. Drain in a colander for about 1 hour to remove any excess moisture before placing on towels.
Step 3
Set up lint free tea towels on your counter or any free space and spread the wheat berries in a single layer. Allow to dry for at least 4 hours or overnight. Note: they don’t need to be bone dry, as prolonged drying can harden the edges.
Step 4
Assemble the koliva: place the wheat berries in a large mixing bowl. Add the honey, chopped nuts, pomegranates, cranberries, raisins, ½ cup crushed graham crackers, ground cloves, cinnamon and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined and adjust for taste if necessary.
Step 5
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or dish, shaping into a traditional mound or round shape. Add the remaining crushed graham crackers on top and then use wax or parchment paper to pat down the ingredients and smooth and shape with your hands.
Dust the top with a layer of powdered sugar. I again like to smooth the top with parchment paper. Decorate as desired with Jordan almonds, edible candies, almonds, or pomegranates.
Recipe Notes
*Note on the wheat berries: Purchase wheat berries at Middle Eastern/Mediterranean markets, ensuring they are already peeled (husks removed) for the best results. Bob’s Red Mill brand has a good type as well.
Note on decorating:
You can decorate the top with Jordan almonds, edible candies (like I have in the photos), almonds, or pomegrantes.
Is cumin an optional seasoning? Mickie Maritsas taught me to use it and it reminds me of the more traditional flavor I remember as a child.
Yes you can absolutely use cumin! I personally don’t prefer It so I use cinnamon and clove 🙂
Where does one buy the wheat berries?
Ooh I need to make a note on this!! I get mine at a nearby Middle Eastern market.
Thank you for this!
you’re very welcome!
Thank you for including the step-by-step instructions for making this dish. I’ve had it only once before, at my mom’s memorial, so I understand the significance and weight of making this. I hope your family is healing!
thank you so much that means a lot! I’m happy to share and hope this piece and recipe helps others <3
Thank you for sharing this recipe. How many people would you estimate that this serves?
hmmm I brought this to my church, so in small 1/4 cups this served about 50-70!
Thank you for this recipe truly a moving ceremony for you and the family. My fathers 3 years is coming up in March and I would like to make his Koliva using your recipe. Just one question what is/graham cracker? not sure we have them in Australia 🌺
Graham cracker would be the equivalent to biscuits in Australia. Sending you so much love, and memory Eternal to your father.
Marie tea biscuits work
Eleni,
This is awesome. I was hoping I wouldn’t have to learn how to make this for a long while to come, but, I had to when my Dad passed away in 2022. The 40 Days were coming up, and neither me nor my Mom were in any condition to do anything, but we both plowed through making the Koliva for Dad. For my mom, she would literally break down after each step, so I had her talk me through getting it ready. It was the most surreal thing. But we did it, and it turned out phenomenal, just like yours did. Thanks again, and much love.
Ah George, I am so sorry to hear about your father! I’m also happy to hear you were there with your mom while making koliva for him. Memory eternal. <3
What a beautiful tribute to your yiayia and pappou and for being so thorough in explaining the tradition to us. Although I’ve grown up with this my entire life, I’m grateful for the meaning of each ingredient as described by you. I have no doubt your yiayia is smiling down on you and so very proud of you for continuing her love of cooking and her traditions. Sending you love and strength….grief is hard. Take the time you need. 🙏🏼💙
Thank you so much Vicki I really appreciate your kind words. I’m glad the significance of ingredients were articulated well xoxo
Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve never made koliva and feel quite moved to do this for my yia yia “Peggy” who left the earth this past summer.
Ahhh, i’m so sorry for your loss! Koliva is definitely a wonderful thing to make for your loved one. You’ll be thinking of her the entire time xoxo
May both your Papou and YiaYia’s memories be eternal. Blessings over your memories of them, may they always ground you in peace and love.
Thank you so much Paula I really appreciate that so much. xo
Thank you for the recipe and detailed instructions. This week we are preparing for my Father’s funeral, almost 95 years young. I have saved it to make for his memorial mass. I hope your family is healing through the process of remembering your loved ones.
Ah you’re so welcome, I always hope my recipes and writing helps someone in some way. I hope you and your family are doing well, i’m so sorry for the loss of your father. May his memory be eternal! xo
May their memories be eternal. Many blessings to you for keeping the traditions and their memories alive.?This is one “recipe” I never got from my mom as she passed unexpectedly young, so I appreciate the guidance from a trusted source.
Oh my you are far too kind! Whenever you need to make koliva, I hope you enjoy It and think of your loved ones. Much love.
So beautifully said Eleni!
thank you so much xoxo
Thank you for sharing, it os great to keep the tradition going🙏🙏
my pleasure <3
Thank you for sharing! Will definitely be making it for Saturday of the Souls.
Beautiful, thank you!
Could we add chopped dried figs?
Of course! That would be a great add in
beautiful recipe and thank you for sharing – I have never put honey in it but willing to try it!!!
Thank you! let me know how It goes 🙂 I like adding honey whenever I can!
Thank you so very much for posting this. I am embarrassed to say at 73, I have never made koliva but others had for when was needed. I do appreciate it and would very much like to try, may be next Saturday if the Souls. Again thank you and have a blessed Pascha💕
So glad I found your blog by chance 💕
Don’t be embarrassed at all! It’s a dish like I said I would hope not to have to make, but such is life and was needed to. Thank you for your sweet comment 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing your recipe and especially the beautiful sentiments as to why you added a little extra here and there. Graham crackers are mentioned twice could you please clarify?
hi there! yes, you use graham cracker in the mix with all the ingredients as well as as a topping before the powdered sugar. that acts as a nice barrier!
This is very helpful! As an alternative to the graham crackers, I’d like to suggest using crushed Nabisco Vanilla Wafers.
Ah yes that would be great!
Can I sub farro for wheat berries. Have searched every where. No wheat berries.
So sorry for the late reply! Farro has a different texture for sure, so barley or spelt might be better options. I did find some wheat berries on amazon!
Do you use liquid honey?
yes!
What can you do with wheat berries that were not blessed but used for a makaria, not mixed with anything
Hmm I will have to ask my priest friends on that one!
I have never made koliva, my sister and I always depend on our church ladies to provide them on our behalf for our mom and dad, but I am going to attempt them with your recipe for February 22, 2025 Ψυχοσάββατο.
Hi there, how did It turn out? It definitely is a beautiful experience making for your loved ones <3
Eleni,bless you & many thanks!Over the years,I made Kollyva for my Parents & late Husband,& today because of memory problems,I was hesitant to start…Your instructions saved me …now I will be ready for Psyhosavato ….E.Canberra,Australia 🙏💝
Oh my I’m so glad, and hope you found the recipe to be easy to follow! much love
Hi Eleni,
Saturday of Souls is approaching. my second time making Koliva for my beloved parents. Your recipe looks great. my question, how big a bowl or tray is appropriate for this recipe? Thank you. Angela
SO sorry for the late response. For this recipe I use a medium sized bowl! much love