Adessert for the dead that’s all about life? What does that mean exactly? Well, it’s true! The deceased are remembered in Greece with a tray of kolyva—a rich mix of wheat, fruit, and nuts that symbolizes the gifts of life and is often an edible masterpiece. Taboo of death aside, it is also one of the healthiest treats around.
Dating back to ancient times, kolyva is prepared by the family of the deceased and offered in tiny bags complete with a spoon and napkin after the memorial service.
It takes several days, lots of effort, and patience to prepare this wheat-based sweet which is presented on silver trays with love and in honor of the departed.
But kolyva is not your simple mix of ingredients. Every single item has a special meaning dating back thousands of years.
