Goumi Pie Recipe: A Unique Twist on Traditional Fruit Pies

Goumi berries are a lesser-known fruit that packs a flavorful punch. With a slightly tart taste and a rich red color, goumi berries make an excellent filling for pies, jams, and preserves. If you’re looking to try something new in the world of fruit pies, this goumi pie recipe is perfect for you. It’s easy to make and brings a refreshing twist to traditional fruit desserts. Let’s dive into the steps for preparing this unique, delicious pie.

What Are Goumi Berries?

Goumi berries are small, round, red fruits that grow on the goumi bush (Elaeagnus umbellata). Native to Asia but now found in many parts of the world, these berries are often overlooked despite their nutritional value and tangy taste. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a healthy option for any dessert.

Although goumi berries have a tartness to them, they also have a subtle sweetness that shines when paired with sugar, spices, and a buttery crust. They are also known for their unique flavor profile, which blends a bit of sour cherry and cranberry with earthy undertones.

Ingredients for Goumi Pie Recipe

In this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 4 cups fresh goumi berries (or 2 ½ cups frozen)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6-8 tbsp ice-cold water

Step-by-Step Instructions for Goumi Pie Recipe

1. Prepare the Crust:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Incorporate the cold butter into the flour by using a pastry blender or your fingertips, mixing until the texture resembles rough crumbs.
• Gradually add ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just starts to come together. You may not need all the water.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead it a couple of times, and then divide it into two equal portions. Divide the dough into portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

• In a medium bowl, combine the goumi berries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir gently to combine and coat the berries evenly. If you’re using frozen goumi berries, allow them to thaw slightly before mixing.
• Prepare the filling and set it aside while you roll out the pie crust.

3. Assemble the Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• On a floured surface, roll out one of the portions of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough into the pie dish, trimming any excess around the edges.
• Pour the goumi berry filling into the prepared crust.
• Roll out the second portion of dough and lay it over the pie filling. You can either place the full crust on top or cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern.
• Pinch the edges of the dough together and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

4. Bake the Pie:

• Place the assembled pie on a baking tray to catch any overflow during baking. Bake in a preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust achieves a golden hue and the filling starts to bubble.
• If the edges of the crust darken too quickly, shield them with strips of aluminum foil to avoid burning.
• Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it rest for at least an hour before serving. This helps the filling set properly.

Serving Suggestions for Goumi Pie

Goumi pie is best served slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tartness of the goumi berries pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of ice cream or the sweetness of whipped cream. You can also dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Why You Should Try Goumi Pie

This pie is a delightful, unique dessert that brings something new to the table. The berries’ tartness combined with the buttery, flaky crust makes for a delicious balance of flavors. If you’ve never tried goumi berries, this pie is the perfect introduction to their distinct taste. It’s a wonderful choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations.