Velikdenska_kosnicka -
This sweet, braided bread is the heart of the Bulgarian Easter table. Its high rise during baking symbolizes the growth of faith and the sweetness of life. A well-made kozunak should be "on threads" (peeling away in long, soft strands) and is often studded with raisins or walnuts.
Tuck in sprigs of fresh flowers (like tulips or hyacinths) and perhaps a small bottle of red wine or a decorative candle to be lit during the midnight service. The Spirit of the Tradition
Use a hand-woven wicker or straw basket. Line it with a "mesal" —a traditional Bulgarian cloth, usually white with red embroidery or lace edges.
The most important item. In Bulgarian tradition, the first egg dyed must be red, representing the blood of Christ and the promise of resurrection. It is often placed separately or at the very top of the basket.
The beauty of the Velikdenska kosnicka lies in its communal nature. These baskets are often taken to church to be blessed during the Resurrection service. Afterwards, the "egg tapping" ( borat s yaytsa ) begins—a friendly competition where family members tap their eggs against one other. The owner of the "borak" (the winning, unbroken egg) is said to have the best health for the coming year.
This sweet, braided bread is the heart of the Bulgarian Easter table. Its high rise during baking symbolizes the growth of faith and the sweetness of life. A well-made kozunak should be "on threads" (peeling away in long, soft strands) and is often studded with raisins or walnuts.
Tuck in sprigs of fresh flowers (like tulips or hyacinths) and perhaps a small bottle of red wine or a decorative candle to be lit during the midnight service. The Spirit of the Tradition
Use a hand-woven wicker or straw basket. Line it with a "mesal" —a traditional Bulgarian cloth, usually white with red embroidery or lace edges.
The most important item. In Bulgarian tradition, the first egg dyed must be red, representing the blood of Christ and the promise of resurrection. It is often placed separately or at the very top of the basket.
The beauty of the Velikdenska kosnicka lies in its communal nature. These baskets are often taken to church to be blessed during the Resurrection service. Afterwards, the "egg tapping" ( borat s yaytsa ) begins—a friendly competition where family members tap their eggs against one other. The owner of the "borak" (the winning, unbroken egg) is said to have the best health for the coming year.