Goumi berries, with their unique tart-sweet flavor and vibrant red hue, offer a delightful twist on traditional pie recipes. While less common than blueberries or strawberries, their distinctive taste makes them a rewarding ingredient for adventurous bakers. This guide explores several goumi berry pie recipes, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
What are Goumi Berries?
Before diving into the recipes, let's understand what makes goumi berries special. Goumi berries ( Elaeagnus multiflora) are small, oblong berries with a slightly tart and tangy flavor, often described as a blend of cranberry and cherry. They are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Their unique flavor profile lends itself beautifully to pies, offering a refreshing contrast to sweeter berry varieties.
Goumi Berry Pie: Classic Recipe
This recipe provides a foundational approach to making a goumi berry pie, perfect for beginners.
Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
- Filling:
- 4 cups fresh goumi berries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
- Make the crust: Combine flour and salt. Cut in butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, gently combine goumi berries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Assemble the pie: Roll out half of the dough and place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Pour the goumi berry filling into the crust. Dot with butter pieces. Roll out the remaining dough and either place it over the filling or cut into strips for a lattice top. Crimp the edges to seal.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool completely before serving.
Goumi Berry Pie with a Crumble Topping
This variation adds a delightful crunchy topping to the classic goumi berry pie.
Ingredients (in addition to the Classic Recipe ingredients):
- Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Instructions:
Follow steps 1-3 from the Classic Recipe. For the crumble topping, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter in a bowl. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the goumi berry filling before baking. Bake as directed in the Classic Recipe.
How to Make a Goumi Berry Pie from Frozen Berries?
Using frozen goumi berries is a convenient option, especially during off-season. Here's how to adapt the recipe:
- Thaw the berries: Gently thaw the frozen berries completely before using them in the recipe. Avoid microwaving, as this can release excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the filling to prevent a watery pie.
- Reduce liquid: You may need to slightly reduce the amount of liquid (lemon juice or added water) in the filling to compensate for the moisture released from the thawed berries.
What kind of crust is best for Goumi Berry Pie?
A classic shortcrust pastry works wonderfully for goumi berry pie. Its buttery flavor complements the tartness of the berries. You can also experiment with other crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a flaky puff pastry, depending on your preference.
How do you thicken Goumi Berry Pie Filling?
Cornstarch is the most common thickening agent for goumi berry pie filling. It helps to create a smooth, set filling without making the pie overly firm. You can also use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives.
Can I use other berries with Goumi Berries in a Pie?
Absolutely! Goumi berries pair well with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Adding a mix of berries can create a more complex flavor profile and a visually appealing pie. Adjust the sugar amount accordingly, based on the sweetness of the added berries.
This guide provides a starting point for your goumi berry pie adventures. Feel free to experiment with different spices, sweeteners, and crust variations to create your unique masterpiece. Enjoy baking!
