Rustic North Croatian Butternut Squash Stew
Experience the rich flavors of traditional North Croatian cuisine with this Rustic Butternut Squash Stew, known locally as Buce Cuspajz. Passed down through generations, this hearty dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the warmth of sautéed onions, rich lard, and aromatic spices. The addition of fresh dill and creamy sour cream elevates the dish, making it a perfect comfort meal that pairs beautifully with crispy pork schnitzels and fluffy potatoes. Enjoy a taste of culinary history that reflects the region's shared cultural heritage with Hungary, celebrating nearly 200 years of this cherished family recipe.
4
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butternut squash
1000 g (cut into thick spaghetti-like stripes)
Onions
100 g (finely minced)
Lard
7 g (melted)
Flour
1 tablespoon (none)
Paprika (Hungarian, sweet, dried)
1 teaspoon (none)
Vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
Sour cream
100 g (none)
Fresh dill (optional)
10 g (minced)
Instructions
1
Cut the butternut squash into thick spaghetti-like stripes. If available, purchase pre-cut squash for convenience.
2
In a large bowl, salt the squash generously and add vinegar. Let it sit for 60 minutes to draw out the juices.
3
In a large pot, melt the lard over medium heat. Add the finely minced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
4
Stir in the flour, cooking until it reaches a light brown color, then gradually add cold water, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy base.
5
Mix in the paprika and additional water, stirring to combine, then let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
6
After the squash has released its juices, squeeze it by hand to remove excess liquid and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine with the sauce.
7
Add enough fresh water to just cover the squash, then reduce the heat and cook gently for approximately 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the squash is tender.
8
Before serving, fold in the minced dill and sour cream until well incorporated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
9
Serve hot, ideally alongside crispy pork schnitzels and fluffy potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
9.5
Fat
24
Carbs
5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the local name for the Rustic North Croatian Butternut Squash Stew?
The dish is known locally in North Croatia as Buce Cuspajz.
How long has this family recipe been around?
This cherished family recipe reflects nearly 200 years of culinary history.
What is the primary vegetable used in this stew?
The primary ingredient is 1000 grams of butternut squash.
How should the butternut squash be prepared?
The squash should be cut into thick, spaghetti-like stripes.
Why is vinegar added to the squash before cooking?
Vinegar and salt are added to let the squash sit for 60 minutes to draw out its natural juices.
What type of fat is used to sauté the onions?
The recipe traditionally uses 7 grams of melted lard.
How should the onions be cut for the base?
The recipe calls for 100 grams of finely minced onions.
How do you create the creamy base for the stew?
By stirring one tablespoon of flour into the melted lard and onions until light brown, then gradually adding cold water.
What type of paprika is best for this Croatian recipe?
Hungarian sweet dried paprika is recommended for an authentic flavor profile.
Should I squeeze the squash after it sits in the vinegar?
Yes, after 60 minutes, you should squeeze the squash by hand to remove excess liquid before adding it to the pot.
How long does the stew need to cook once the squash is added?
The stew should be cooked gently for approximately 30 to 40 minutes until the squash is tender.
When should the sour cream be added to the dish?
The sour cream should be folded into the stew just before serving until it is well incorporated.
Is fresh dill a required ingredient?
Fresh dill is optional but highly recommended to elevate the flavor of the dish.
What side dishes pair well with this butternut squash stew?
It pairs beautifully with crispy pork schnitzels and fluffy potatoes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of this stew?
There are 9.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content for this dish?
There are 24 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this stew offer?
The stew provides 5 grams of protein per serving.
Can I use pre-cut squash for convenience?
Yes, you can purchase pre-cut butternut squash if available to save time on preparation.
Is this dish considered a summer or winter meal?
While hearty and comforting, it is tagged as a summer dish, likely reflecting the harvest time of the squash.
What cultural heritage does this dish reflect?
The dish reflects a shared cultural heritage between North Croatia and Hungary.
Is the stew base thick or thin?
The stew features a smooth, creamy base created by a light roux and sour cream.
How much vinegar is used in the preparation?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of vinegar.
How much sour cream is needed?
100 grams of sour cream are used to finish the stew.
What should the texture of the onions be before adding flour?
The onions should be sautéed until they are translucent and fragrant.
Should the stew be served hot or cold?
The dish should be served hot for the best experience.
How much water is used in the cooking process?
Fresh water should be added gradually to create the base and then enough to just cover the squash.
Is this a complex recipe to cook?
No, it is tagged as an easy cooking recipe that is accessible for home cooks.
Can I adjust the seasonings at the end?
Yes, the instructions suggest adjusting the seasoning if needed after folding in the dill and sour cream.