Tired of the same old side dishes? This Lithuanian Buckwheat and Vegetable Porridge, also known as Grikių Košė, is here to bring earthy flavor, old-world comfort, and a wholesome twist to your dinner table. 🥄 Packed with nutrients, naturally gluten-free, and effortlessly hearty, this humble dish has been a staple in Lithuanian kitchens for generations—and once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in yours too!

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🇱🇹 What Is Grikių Košė?

Grikių Košė (pronounced gree-kyoo koh-sheh) is a traditional Lithuanian side dish made with toasted buckwheat groats, sautéed vegetables, and a touch of savory tomato sauce. Think of it as Lithuania’s answer to rice pilaf or couscous—with a nuttier taste, chewy texture, and way more nutrients.

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🌍 Why Buckwheat Is a Beloved Ingredient in Eastern Europe

Buckwheat (grikiai in Lithuanian) isn’t technically a grain—it’s a gluten-free seed, also known as a pseudo-grain. In countries like Lithuania, Poland, and Russia, buckwheat groats (grikių kruopos) have been an affordable, filling, and nourishing food for centuries. Thanks to its ability to thrive in cold climates, buckwheat became a trusted staple during long winters, offering energy and essential nutrients in every spoonful.

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🥕 Ingredients You’ll Need

This side dish is incredibly adaptable and uses pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you need:

• 120 g (¾ cup) toasted buckwheat groats (often labeled as “kasha”)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or use neutral oil like sunflower or canola)
• 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato purée (or 2 tbsp ketchup as a shortcut)
• 1 tsp dried herbs (Italian blend or mixed herbs work great)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp water (to loosen the sauce)

🧅 Feel free to throw in other veggies too—mushrooms, bell peppers, green beans, or even cauliflower florets are all welcome in this dish!

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🥣 How to Make Lithuanian Buckwheat Porridge – Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Buckwheat
   Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the buckwheat groats according to the package instructions—usually about 12–15 minutes. You’re aiming for tender, not mushy.
2. Sauté the Veggies
   While the buckwheat cooks, heat oil in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and shredded carrot. Cook on low-medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant.
3. Make a Quick Tomato Sauce
   In a small bowl, mix together the tomato purée, dried herbs, garlic powder, and water. Stir to create a smooth, pourable sauce. If using ketchup, skip this step and just stir it directly into the veggies.
4. Combine & Serve
   Drain the cooked buckwheat thoroughly and toss it into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the tomato sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to blend the flavors.

✨ Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course!

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💪 Health Benefits of Buckwheat

Buckwheat isn’t just cozy—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse:

• 🌱 Gluten-free and safe for those with celiac disease
• 💪 A complete plant protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids
• 🧠 Rich in vitamin B, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants
• ❤️ Supports heart health, blood sugar balance, and digestion

With up to 13 grams of protein per serving, buckwheat stands tall among superfoods.

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🛒 Where to Buy Buckwheat Groats

Look for toasted buckwheat groats (kasha) in:

• Eastern European grocery stores
• Health food shops
• International sections of large supermarkets
• Online under names like "buckwheat groats" or "kasha"

✅ Make sure you're buying toasted groats for this recipe—not raw or green buckwheat.

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🍽 What to Serve with Buckwheat Porridge

This dish makes a perfect side for all your hearty Eastern European favorites. Try it alongside:

• Karbonadas – Lithuanian pork cutlets
• Lithuanian Meatballs (coming soon!)
• Netikras Zuikis – savory meatloaf with apples
• Roasted root vegetables with a dollop of sour cream
• Leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick buckwheat pilaf
• Or pair it with our Pork Rice Pilaf for a cozy dinner combo!

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🧊 Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• 🧺 Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• 🔥 Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a dab of butter for best flavor
• ⚡️ Microwave works too—just don’t skip the butter or oil drizzle for moisture

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💡 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re diving into Baltic cuisine or just trying to jazz up your weeknight meals, this Lithuanian Buckwheat Side Dish is a warm and hearty option that celebrates simplicity, history, and nutrition. It's budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to add a wholesome vibe to your plate. Give this traditional recipe a try, and bring a little taste of Lithuania to your home! 🇱🇹✨ More Lithuanian recipes