Introduction:
Growing up, my grandmother always had a special Goumi Pie on the table during summer gatherings. Made with fresh, tart goumi berries from her backyard, this pie was not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and nutrients. The tangy flavor of the berries combined with a lightly sweetened crust made it a family favorite. Goumi berries might not be as popular as other fruits, but their unique taste and health benefits make this pie truly special. Over time, I’ve developed a healthier version of her recipe, so you can enjoy the flavor without the guilt!
Recipe Details:
Ingredients List:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3-4 tbsp cold water
For the Goumi Berry Filling:
- 2 cups goumi berries, washed and pitted
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Add cold butter and coconut oil, cutting them into the flour with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Roll into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie pan lightly with butter or coconut oil.
3. Make the Goumi Berry Filling:
In a medium bowl, toss the goumi berries with honey, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon (if using). Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to thicken.
4. Roll Out the Crust:
Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the dough to the greased pie pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
5. Fill and Bake:
Pour the goumi berry mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. If you’re using the optional topping, mix oats, chopped almonds, honey, and melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the filling. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set. Enjoy your healthy Goumi Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Unique Tips, Variations, and Insights:
Customization Tips:
- Substitute goumi berries with other tart berries like cranberries or raspberries if goumi isn’t available.
- For a vegan option, replace butter with additional coconut oil and use a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup.
Expert Advice:
- If your goumi berries are very tart, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey to the filling.
- Serve this pie warm for the best texture, as the heat brings out the sweetness of the berries and the buttery richness of the crust.
Cultural Context:
- Goumi berries are widely used in East Asia, prized for their health benefits and unique flavor. This recipe is a creative take on traditional berry pies, making use of this lesser-known superfruit.
Nutrition Facts:
(Calculated per slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
FAQ Section:
Q1: What are goumi berries, and where can I find them?
A: Goumi berries are small, red fruits known for their high antioxidant content. You can find them at farmers’ markets or specialty stores, or you can grow your own!
Q2: Can I make the pie crust gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply swap the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a perfect gluten-free version.
Q3: How long does the pie last in the fridge?
A: This Goumi Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Conclusion:
This easy and healthy Goumi Pie recipe brings together the tartness of goumi berries with a lightly sweetened, whole wheat crust for a balanced and delicious dessert. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the lesser-known goumi berry and enjoy a treat that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re new to goumi berries or already a fan, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your home. Share your thoughts or any variations you’ve tried in the comments below!
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