The Eastern Cross/Fasting recipes/St. Barbara’s Wheat
Levantine · Sweet
St. Barbara’s Wheat
Βαρβάρα / برباره
Spiced wheat pudding for St. Barbara
Any fast dayPrep 15 minCook 1 h 30 minServes 8Plus overnight soaking
When to eat it. Made for St. Barbara on December 4 in the Levant and northern Greece, during the Nativity Fast. No oil, wine or fish, so it fits even the strict weekdays of Lent.
Ingredients
Method
- Simmer the wheat in plenty of water for 1 to 1½ hours until tender and the liquid is thick.
- Stir in the sugar and spices and cook 10 minutes.
- Spoon into bowls and cool.
- Top with fruit and nuts.
Tip. The wheat stands for St. Barbara’s faith rising like grain from the earth.
Fasting customs differ between churches and parishes. When in doubt, follow what your priest gives you. Not sure what today allows? Check the Orthodox calendar.
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