Cucuzza squash, also known as Italian squash or gagootz, is a long, mild-flavored summer squash popular in Sicilian and Italian-American cuisine. If you’ve recently come across this unique vegetable and wondered how to cook cucuzza squash, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through several easy and tasty ways to prepare cucuzza, from soups and stews to grilled and stuffed dishes. Let’s dive into the world of cucuzza cooking with simple steps and flavorful ideas.
What Is Cucuzza Squash?
Cucuzza is a long, slender squash that can grow up to several feet in length. Its skin is light green and slightly ridged, and inside, it has soft seeds that are edible when the squash is young. The texture is tender when cooked, similar to zucchini, and it readily absorbs flavors from herbs, garlic, and sauces. Cucuzza is versatile and can be used in soups, pasta dishes, or as a stuffed vegetable.
Preparing Cucuzza Squash for Cooking
Before cooking, cucuzza needs some basic prep:
– Peeling: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin, especially if the squash is older and tougher.
– Cutting: Trim off the ends and cut the squash into manageable pieces, usually 2-3 inches long. Slice into half-moons or chunks depending on the recipe.
– Seeding: The seeds are soft and edible when the squash is young, so you can leave them in. For older squash, scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
Cooking Methods for Cucuzza Squash
1. Cucuzza Soup
A comforting Sicilian-style soup is a great way to enjoy cucuzza.
How to make it:
– Sauté onions, garlic, basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper in olive oil until softened.
– Add peeled and chopped cucuzza pieces and cook for a few minutes.
– Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, canned tomatoes, a cheese rind (like pecorino or parmesan), saffron, salt, and pepper.
– Simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until the squash is tender.
– Stir in pasta and cook until al dente.
– Finish with fresh basil and adjust seasoning.
This soup is hearty and flavorful, perfect for a cozy meal.
2. Stewed Cucuzza with Potatoes and Tomato Sauce
This is a simple, rustic dish that highlights the squash’s mild flavor.
Steps:
– Peel and cut cucuzza and potatoes into chunks.
– Sauté potatoes in olive oil until slightly soft, then add sliced onions.
– Stir in Italian red sauce and cook until potatoes soften further.
– Add cucuzza pieces and water, season with salt and pepper.
– Simmer until both potatoes and squash are tender but not mushy.
– Serve hot with crusty Italian bread.
This dish is satisfying and works well as a side or light main.
3. Stuffed Cucuzza Squash
Stuffed cucuzza is a traditional Sicilian favorite, often filled with a savory meatball mixture.
How to prepare:
– Peel and cut the cucuzza into 3-inch lengths.
– Hollow out the center, removing the soft seeds.
– Prepare a filling of ground meat (beef, veal, or pork), breadcrumbs soaked in milk, garlic, parsley, cheese, eggs, and seasoning.
– Stuff the hollowed cucuzza pieces with the meat mixture.
– Brown the stuffed squash in olive oil, then simmer in tomato sauce for about 2 hours until tender.
– Serve alongside pasta tossed with the tomato sauce for a complete meal.
This dish is rich, aromatic, and perfect for a special occasion or family dinner.
4. Grilled and Stuffed Cucuzza Squash
For a lighter, smoky flavor, try grilling cucuzza.
Instructions:
– Peel and cut cucuzza into quarters lengthwise.
– Hollow out the center, leaving a 1/4-inch wall.
– Rub with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
– Grill hollow side down until slightly softened.
– Sauté diced bell peppers and onions with butter and soy sauce.
– Stuff the grilled cucuzza with the sautéed vegetables and top with shredded Parmesan.
– Bake in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until cheese is golden.
This method combines smoky grill flavor with a cheesy, vegetable filling that’s sure to impress.
Tips for Cooking Cucuzza Squash
– Older cucuzza may require peeling twice to remove gritty skin texture.
– The seeds are edible when young but can be removed if tough.
– Cucuzza cooks quickly; watch carefully to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
– Use fresh herbs like basil and parsley to brighten the flavor.
– Pair with simple tomato sauces, garlic, and good-quality olive oil to enhance its mild taste.
Cucuzza squash is a versatile, delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways-from soups and stews to grilled and stuffed dishes. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it’s a wonderful addition to your summer cooking repertoire. Give these recipes a try and enjoy a taste of Sicilian tradition in your own kitchen!