As you embark upon your journey to the Czech town of buší, prepare to be enchanted by its Old World charm and natural beauty. Nestled within the foothills of the Sumava Mountains, buší offers visitors an escape into a simpler time. Cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture, and lush forests await your discovery. Whether wandering the grounds of the buší Chateau, hiking through the buší National Park, or sampling a pint of the locally-brewed beer at one of the traditional pubs, you will find adventure and inspiration in the details of everyday life in buší. Get ready to lose yourself in the peaceful rhythms of this historic city and return home feeling refreshed and renewed. The wonders of buší are calling you. All that remains is for you to answer.
What Is Buší?
Buší is a traditional Czech dumpling usually made of potatoes, dough, and cheese. The word “buší” comes from a Czech word meaning “to stuff” or “to fill”. Buší are boiled dumplings traditionally served as a side dish, often accompanied by sauerkraut, fried onions, bacon, or stew.
The most common type of buší is the potato dumpling. To make potato buší, mashed potatoes are mixed with flour, egg yolks, salt, and cheese such as quark, cottage cheese or feta cheese. The dough is then formed into oval shapes and boiled until they float to the surface, usually 3 to 5 minutes. Potato buší are usually topped with fried bread crumbs, butter, and cheese.
Another variety is the bread dumpling, made from day-old bread, milk, egg, sugar, raisins, and spices. The bread is soaked in the milk and mixed with the eggs and spices, then small pieces of the dough are boiled. Bread dumplings are usually served as a dessert, topped with melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and fruit sauce.
Dumplings have been an important part of Czech cuisine for centuries. Buší are a traditional, hearty comfort food that families have been making and enjoying for generations. They are the perfect dish for bringing friends and family together to enjoy a cozy meal.
The History and Origins of Buší
Buší is an ancient strategy game that originated in Africa. Historians believe the game first emerged around the 6th century AD in the area that is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. The earliest known versions used holes dug in the ground and seeds or stones as playing pieces.
The Spread of Buší
As trade routes expanded, Buší spread to other parts of Africa and beyond. The game was introduced to the Caribbean and South America during the slave trade, which is how it eventually made its way to Suriname and Guyana. Enthusiasts helped popularize Buší in Europe and Asia starting in the late 19th century.
Today, Buší is played around the world, though the rules can vary in different regions. The basic objectives, however, remain the same. Players take turns removing and redistributing stones or seeds in an effort to capture their opponent’s pieces. Strategy involves blocking your opponent from accessing certain areas of the board while working to isolate and capture their pieces.
Standard Rules and Gameplay
The most common version of Buší uses a wooden board with 12 holes and 48 stones. Players distribute 4 stones into each hole, with the remaining 8 stones set aside. On each turn, a player selects a hole and removes all the stones in it. The player then deposits one stone into each hole in a counterclockwise direction until all have been replaced.
If the last stone lands in an empty hole, the turn ends. If the last stone lands in a hole with other stones, and the total number of stones is one or more, those stones are also removed and redistributed in the same fashion. Captures occur when a hole is left empty after a redistribution. The game ends when all six holes on one side of the board are captured. The player with the most captures wins.
With a long and rich history, Buší has endured for centuries as an engaging game of strategy, skill and chance. Its widespread appeal is a testament to the game’s timeless entertainment value and cross-cultural reach.
How Buší Is Made
Buší is a traditional Japanese confectionery made from rice flour and sugar. To make buší, the ingredients and tools required are:
Ingredients:
- Rice flour (also called rice powder)
- Sugar
- Food-grade gypsum powder (calcium sulfate)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Flavoring (optional)
Tools:
- Buší mold (made of wood or plastic, with intricate carved patterns)
- Paddle (for mixing and kneading the dough)
- Stove (for cooking the sugar syrup)
To make buší:
- Make the sugar syrup by heating sugar and water in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook until the temperature reaches 115°C or 240°F. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the rice flour, gypsum powder, and food coloring (if using) in a bowl. Add the sugar syrup and mix well into a smooth dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes stretchy.
- Place the dough into the buší mold. Use the paddle to press the dough into all parts of the mold to capture the intricate details. Level off the excess dough from the top of the mold using a knife.
- Allow the buší to set in the mold for 2 to 3 hours before unmolding. Gently pry around the edges of the mold to release the buší. Enjoy as is or with tea.
The key to making good buší is using the proper amount of gypsum powder, which helps give buší its characteristic texture. The mold also plays an important role in achieving an attractive patterned shape. With some practice, you can make delicately patterned buší to share with friends and family.
The Different Styles and Variations of Buší
There are several distinct styles and variations of buší to consider.
Formal Buší
The most well-known style is formal buší, characterized by vibrant colors and elaborate, decorative patterns. This style uses luxurious fabrics like silk, brocade, and velvet, and incorporates metallic threads and beadwork. Garments feature wide sleeves, standing collars, and side slits for convenience.
Casual Buší
For everyday wear, casual buší is more practical. Made from cotton, linen or wool, these comfortable yet fashionable garments have simpler cuts and subdued patterns. Loose-fitting tunics and wide-leg pants are popular for men and women. Light, breathable fabrics suit the hot climate. This casual style is ideal for work or leisure.
Regional Styles
Buší has distinct regional variations that reflect local culture and environment. Coastal areas favor lightweight, loose garments in light colors, while mountain regions use thicker fabrics in darker, earthy tones. Certain patterns, colors and embroidery are unique to each region. Many buší outfits also incorporate a sash or belt, which can be tied in a variety of regionally-specific ways.
Modern Buší
Contemporary buší seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern style. Using traditional fabrics, colors and embroidery, designers create updated silhouettes like A-line dresses, fitted blouses, and tailored jackets. Metal studs, leather trim and asymmetrical closures provide an edgy twist. Young, fashion-forward individuals are embracing this fusion of old and new.
Buší has a rich history and cultural tradition spanning centuries. Whether formal or casual, traditional or modern, buší garments allow people to express their style while honoring the past. With so many options, there is a perfect buší look for any occasion.
Where to Find and Buy Authentic Buší
Authentic buší can be found from a select few sources. As buší has gained worldwide popularity, many mass-produced imitations have entered the market. To ensure you are purchasing high-quality, handcrafted buší, buy from the following recommended sources:
Directly from Artisans
The best way to buy authentic buší is directly from Slovak artisans. Many skilled buší makers sell their wares at local craft fairs, folk festivals, and town markets throughout Slovakia, especially in the regions of Liptov, Orava, and Kysuce. If you are visiting Slovakia, attending one of these events is an excellent opportunity to view, handle, and purchase handmade buší, as well as learn about the artisans’ creative process. Some artisans also sell buší and other traditional crafts in small shops attached to their workshops. With some searching, you may be able to find artisans who ship internationally or work with select importers to sell their buší abroad.
Museum Gift Shops
Several museums in Slovakia focus on traditional arts and crafts, including the Liptovské múzeum in Ružomberok and the Oravské múzeum in Dolný Kubín. The gift shops at these museums sell high-quality, handcrafted buší that has been authenticated as genuinely made in the Slovak folk style. While the selection may be more limited, you can be confident you are purchasing an authentic product that also supports the museum. Some larger museums may ship internationally.
Certified Importers
A few importers specialize in bringing handcrafted Slovakian goods to international markets. Two recommended companies that import and sell authentic buší online or in specialty stores are Podolak Goods based in Pennsylvania, USA and Goralski based in Poland. These importers work directly with artisans to source handmade buší and other handicrafts. They also provide information about the specific artisans and materials behind each product. For the best selection and price, you may need to purchase through their website or physical storefronts. However, you can feel confident you are getting an authentic product that provides fair compensation to the craftspeople.
In summary, when searching for authentic buší, buy directly from Slovak artisans, select museum gift shops, or use reputable importers who source from artisans. Avoid buying from general souvenir shops, big box stores, or any retailer that does not specifically work with and identify the artisans behind the products. With some diligent searching, you can find handcrafted buší and support this traditional Slovak folk art.
Conclusion
As you have learned, buší are unique Czech pastries that showcase traditional flavors and ingredients. While they may appear simple at first glance, buší actually have a rich history and cultural significance. Whether enjoying buší at a bakery in Prague, making them at home following a family recipe, or even discovering them for the first time in this article, these pastries represent comfort, nostalgia, and bringing people together. Even though globalization continues to introduce international influences into cuisines around the world, buší stand as a delicious reminder of Czech heritage and the joy to be found in life’s simple pleasures. On your next trip to the Czech Republic or in your own kitchen, take the time to slow down, savor a buší, and reflect on how food has the power to connect us across borders and time.
