Plum and sour cherry pie.

Plum and Sour Cherry Pie – A Sweet and Tart Delight

The plum and sour cherry pie is a dessert that combines the aromatic flavors of summer fruits, blended with the delicate pie crust. This classic recipe is perfect for celebrating the season of fresh fruits, but can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The aroma of vanilla and the juiciness of the fruits will turn any meal into a special moment. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh plums
- 1 kg fresh sour cherries
- 1 kg pie crust (preferably store-bought for convenience)
- 100 g sugar (for sautéing the fruits)
- 100 g vanilla-flavored powdered sugar (for dusting the pie)
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 1 vanilla bean

A Bit of History:

Fruit pies have been made for thousands of years, being one of the oldest forms of preserving fruits. This simple yet delicious recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each adding their own touch. The sweet-tart flavor of sour cherries and plums makes this pie a perfect choice for any occasion, from family meals to parties with friends.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Fruits:
Start by washing the plums and sour cherries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the pits and cut the plums in halves or quarters, depending on their size. Place the fruits in a colander to drain.

2. Sautéing the Fruits:
In a pot, add the drained plums and sour cherries. Add 100 g of sugar and the scraped seeds of the vanilla bean. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly. Sautéing will help intensify the flavors and turn the fruits into a delicious mixture that will be the base of your pie.

3. Adding the Semolina:
At the end of the sautéing process, add the 2 tablespoons of semolina and mix well. The semolina will help absorb the fruit juices, preventing the pie from becoming too wet.

4. Preparing the Baking Tray:
While the fruits cool slightly, prepare the baking tray. It is recommended to use parchment paper so that the pie doesn’t stick to the tray. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

5. Assembling the Pie:
Place the first sheet of pie crust in the tray. Use a fork to poke holes in it, allowing steam to escape during baking. Add the plum and sour cherry mixture over the first sheet, spreading it evenly. Cover with the second sheet of pie crust, repeating the poking process.

6. Brushing and Baking:
Beat an egg and carefully brush the surface of the pie. This step will give your pie a golden color. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy.

7. Checking with a Toothpick:
After 50 minutes, do the toothpick test. If it comes out clean, the pie is ready! Let it cool slightly before cutting.

8. Serving:
Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, dusted with vanilla-flavored powdered sugar. You can accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Fruits: Opt for the freshest plums and sour cherries. If you can’t find sour cherries, you can substitute them with cherries or apricots.
- Sweetness of the Fruits: If the fruits are very tart, feel free to add more sugar during sautéing, adjusting the taste to your preference.
- Variations: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor. You can also replace part of the semolina with almond flour for a richer taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, frozen fruits are a good choice, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I store the pie? The pie can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it before serving.
- Is it a vegetarian recipe? Absolutely! The plum and sour cherry pie is vegetarian, and for a vegan version, you can omit the egg wash or use an egg substitute.

Nutritional Benefits:

Plums are rich in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, while sour cherries contain vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. These fruits contribute to healthy digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.

In conclusion, the plum and sour cherry pie is not just a delicious dessert but also an excellent way to enjoy seasonal fruits. Try this simple and quick recipe, and let yourself be carried away by its enticing flavors! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 kg plums. 1 kg sour cherries. 1 kg pastry sheet (Carrefour). 100 g sugar (for sautéing the plums and sour cherries). 100 g powdered sugar with vanilla flavor (for dusting). 2 tablespoons semolina. 1 vanilla pod.