As the leaves turn golden, the air grows crisp, and approaches with its own festive spirit, Jewish communities worldwide gather to celebrate Sukkot, a holiday rich in tradition and communal feasting. Central to this celebration are the beloved stuffed dishes that grace our tables, symbolizing abundance and the blessings of the harvest. Among these treasured recipes is the Bukharian delight, Oshi Tos Kadu—a culinary gem that holds a special place in our hearts.
Oshi Tos Kadu, a vibrant stuffed pumpkin, showcases a medley of flavors that are both comforting and festive. The dish combines tender meat, sweet golden raisins, and aromatic rice, all encased within the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This harmonious blend is more than just a feast for the senses; it is a testament to the Bukharian tradition of creating meals that celebrate life and heritage.
The practice of preparing stuffed foods during Sukkot is a cherished custom among Jews everywhere, echoing the values of hospitality, generosity, and gratitude. Each stuffed dish tells a story of history and community, passed down through generations as a symbol of cultural identity and family bonds. For the Bukharian community, Oshi Tos Kadu is not merely a meal—it embodies the warmth of home and the joy of sharing.
As we reflect on this past Sukkot, let us celebrate the cultural richness of dishes like Oshi Tos Kadu. These recipes connect us to our roots and remind us of the shared traditions that unite us across continents. In embracing these culinary treasures, we honor our past and nourish our future, one delicious bite at a time.
Recipe
for Oshi Tos Kadu:
Stuffed Pumpkin
Ingredients:
- 300g of meat
- 450g of rice
- 1 medium pumpkin
- ⅝ cup of oil
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped
- 1 cup of golden raisins
- Salt
Instructions:
- Begin by cutting off the top of the pumpkin and scooping out the seeds.
- Prepare the golden raisins by ensuring they are stem-free.
- Separate the meat from the bones and chop it into small, pea-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the meat, rice, golden raisins, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Stuff the pumpkin with this meat mixture and replace the top.
- In a kazan or Dutch oven, heat the oil and add the bones with any remaining meat scraps and the chopped tomato. Sauté this mixture for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Carefully place the stuffed pumpkin into the kazan and add water until only about an inch of the pumpkin remains exposed.
- Bring the water to a boil, then cover and let it simmer on low heat for 1½ to 2 hours.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of Oshi Tos Kadu, a dish that brings warmth and tradition to your table.
Bukharian Bites is a passion-driven initiative aimed at celebrating and sharing the rich culinary heritage of the Bukharian community. Through this project, founder Abe Fuzaylov hopes to connect people with the vibrant flavors, traditions, and stories that make Bukharian Jewish culture unique. The goal is to educate both the younger generation in our community as well as those unfamiliar with Bukharian culture, using the universal language of food. Bukharian Times has been publishing his recipes each English issue, starting with issue 1176.
Avraham Fuzaylov