24 September 2026
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World Kitchen Journal
Kykeon – The Ancient Smoothie (Barley Water)
Technique
By Claire Beaumont, the Technique desk · International · 1 min ·

Kykeon – The Ancient Smoothie (Barley Water)

This is an ancient recipe from the time of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, adapted to modern times. It’s nourishing, protein-rich and delicious.

Ingredients · Servings 4
  • 120 g spelt flour
  • 375 g ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 60 g honey
  • cinnamon
  • fresh lemon balm
  • water
Method · 32 min
  1. Put the spelt flour in a pan with enough water to cover it.
  2. Add the ricotta cheese and egg, and grate a little cinnamon over the top.
  3. Heat the mixture to a high temperature while constantly stirring so the egg does not curdle.
  4. Just before the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat so that the dish simmers slightly. Continue stirring until a nice creamy mixture is obtained.
  5. When the dish is ready, remove from the heat and allow to cool.
  6. Cut the fresh lemon balm into small pieces and add them and the honey to the other ingredients. Stir well.
  7. Serve in a glass as a dessert or a drink. Decorate with some more lemon balm and top with a little cinnamon.

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