Strawberry pie is a beloved dessert around the world, but did you know that it has its roots in Indian cuisine? In this article, we will explore the traditional Indian recipe for strawberry pie and how you can recreate this delicious treat in your own kitchen. From the flaky crust to the sweet and tart filling, this strawberry pie is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So put on your apron and get ready to learn about this unique twist on a classic dessert.
The History of Strawberry Pie in India
From Ancient Ayurvedic Treats to Modern-Day Delights
The use of strawberries in Indian cuisine can be traced back to ancient Ayurvedic texts, where they were praised for their medicinal properties. However, it wasn't until the British colonization of India that strawberries were introduced as a dessert ingredient. The combination of British baking techniques and Indian spices resulted in the creation of the first strawberry pie in India.
Since then, strawberry pie has become a popular dessert in India, especially during the summer when fresh strawberries are in season. It has also evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as cardamom, saffron, and even coconut, giving it a unique Indian twist.
The Traditional Indian Recipe for Strawberry Pie
Ingredients and Instructions
To make a traditional Indian strawberry pie, you will need the following ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
To make the crust, start by combining the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add in the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and carefully transfer it to the pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp them as desired.
To make the filling, mix together the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, cardamom, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the edges of the crust with the egg wash.
Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool before serving.
Enjoying Your Indian Strawberry Pie
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Indian strawberry pie can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more traditional Indian touch, sprinkle some chopped pistachios on top. You can also experiment with different spices like saffron or cinnamon in the filling for a unique flavor.
Now that you know the history and recipe for Indian strawberry pie, it's time to try it out for yourself. Impress your friends and family with this delicious dessert that combines the best of Indian and Western flavors. Happy baking!
Strawberry pie is a beloved dessert around the world, but did you know that it has its roots in Indian cuisine? In this article, we will explore the traditional Indian recipe for strawberry pie and how you can recreate this delicious treat in your own kitchen. From the flaky crust to the sweet and tart filling, this strawberry pie is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So put on your apron and get ready to learn about this unique twist on a classic dessert.
The History of Strawberry Pie in India
From Ancient Ayurvedic Treats to Modern-Day Delights
The use of strawberries in Indian cuisine can be traced back to ancient Ayurvedic texts, where they were praised for their medicinal properties. However, it wasn't until the British colonization of India that strawberries were introduced as a dessert ingredient. The combination of British baking techniques and Indian spices resulted in the creation of the first strawberry pie in India.
Since then, strawberry pie has become a popular dessert in India, especially during the summer when fresh strawberries are in season. It has also evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as cardamom, saffron, and even coconut, giving it a unique Indian twist.
The Traditional Indian Recipe for Strawberry Pie
Ingredients and Instructions
To make a traditional Indian strawberry pie, you will need the following ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg wash:
To make the crust, start by combining the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add in the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and carefully transfer it to the pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp them as desired.
To make the filling, mix together the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, cardamom, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the edges of the crust with the egg wash.
Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool before serving.
Enjoying Your Indian Strawberry Pie
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Indian strawberry pie can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more traditional Indian touch, sprinkle some chopped pistachios on top. You can also experiment with different spices like saffron or cinnamon in the filling for a unique flavor.
Now that you know the history and recipe for Indian strawberry pie, it's time to try it out for yourself. Impress your friends and family with this delicious dessert that combines the best of Indian and Western flavors. Happy baking!
