Mosocoarna - Plum Pie

Plum pie is a classic dessert that highlights the flavors of autumn, featuring a fluffy texture and a sweet-tart taste, perfect for concluding a meal or enjoying alongside a cup of fragrant tea. This plum pie recipe, also known as mosocoarnă, is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for any cooking enthusiast.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients for the dough
- 500 grams of sifted flour (choose type 000 flour for a finer dough)
- 25 grams of fresh yeast (if unavailable, you can use 7 grams of dry yeast)
- 250 ml of lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to preferences)
- A pinch of salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- 100 grams of butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 egg yolk (for a richer flavor)

Ingredients for the filling
- 500 grams of pitted plums (about 10-12 plums, choosing the ripest and most aromatic will make a difference)
- 3 tablespoons of semolina (helps absorb the juice from the plums and keeps the dough crispy)

Extra ingredients
- 1 egg (for brushing the dough)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm milk. Add the sugar and one tablespoon of flour. Gently mix and let it sit covered for 10 minutes, until a foam forms. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, salt, and melted butter. Add the beaten egg yolk and mix. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the milk with the activated yeast. Start kneading the dough with your hands, gradually adding more flour if necessary, until the dough becomes elastic and pulls away from your hands. This may take 5 to 10 minutes.

3. Fermenting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. You can check if the dough is ready by pressing it lightly; it should spring back quickly.

4. Preparing the baking tray: Meanwhile, prepare a 20x30 cm baking tray, greased with a little butter or lined with parchment paper.

5. Assembling the pie: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first half on a lightly floured surface and place it in the tray. Use a fork to poke the dough in several places, preventing air bubbles from forming during baking.

6. Adding the filling: Evenly sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of semolina over the dough in the tray. This will help absorb the juice from the plums. Pit and halve the plums, then place them cut side up, covering the entire surface of the dough.

7. Finalizing the pie: Roll out the second half of the dough and place it on top of the plums. Gently press the edges to seal the pie. Beat the egg and brush it evenly over the surface of the dough. This step will help the pie achieve a golden and appetizing color.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy on top.

9. Cooling and serving: Allow the pie to cool slightly before cutting it into servings. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and a touch of sweetness.

Chef's tip
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla essence to the dough or among the plums. Additionally, if you want to experiment with other fruits, apples or sour cherries can be an excellent choice.

Nutritional benefits
This plum pie is not only a delicious dessert but also an excellent way to consume fruit. Plums are a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium. The semolina adds a pleasant texture and helps maintain the feeling of fullness.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, it is a good alternative. Use 7 grams of dry yeast and skip the activation step.
- How do I store the pie? You can keep it at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container or in the fridge to extend its freshness.
- Can I freeze servings? Yes, the pie can be frozen, but it is recommended to cut it into servings before freezing.

Recommended pairings
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fruit tea. Additionally, a caramel sauce or cherry jam can add an extra layer of flavor.

A unique detail
If you want to add a personal touch, you can use plums from your grandparents' orchard, bringing a pleasant memory to each slice. Cook with passion and enjoy every step of the process – the plum pie will surely become a favorite among your loved ones!

Savor this recipe and let its flavors carry you away, turning every meal into a celebration!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 500 g sifted flour, 25 g yeast, 250 ml warm milk, 3 tablespoons sugar, a pinch of salt, 100 g butter, 1 egg yolk. For the filling: 500 g pitted plums (approximately), 3 tablespoons semolina. Extra: 1 egg.