Prairie Berry Tart

About the Prairie Berry Tart

The Prairie Berry Tart is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of rustic countryside living with its vibrant berry filling and buttery crust. Traditionally, this tart utilizes wild berries found abundantly on the prairies, including Saskatoon berries, chokecherries, and wild raspberries. These berries were often gathered by early settlers and indigenous peoples on the plains, providing a vital source of nourishment and flavor to complement simple frontier meals.

The tradition of making berry tarts goes back centuries in Europe, where tart-making cultivated in diverse cultural exchanges. Settlers adapted these recipes using available local berries, leading to delicious additions to the glycemic gestes of the northern plains of America and Canada.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 cup Saskatoon berries
• 1 cup chokecherries, pitted
• 1 cup wild raspberries
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• Juice of one lemon
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Preparation

Step 1: Making the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together without being sticky.

Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling it out to allow the gluten to relax.

Step 2: Preparing the Berry Filling

While the dough is chilling, rinse and gently pat dry the Saskatoon berries, chokecherries, and wild raspberries. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the berries, 3/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss the ingredients together until the berries are evenly coated.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Assembling the Tart

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully drape the dough over the pan, pressing it gently into the edges and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge.

Pour the berry mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Use the remaining dough scraps to create a lattice pattern over the top. Brush the edge and lattice of the tart with the egg wash to achieve a golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Baking

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling gently. Remember to set your cooking timer to ensure perfect results.

Step 5: Cooling and Serving

Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Enjoying Your Prairie Berry Tart

The Prairie Berry Tart is best enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing its lush berry flavors and buttery crust. Share this slice of prairie history with family and friends, celebrating the bounty of nature's gifts anytime you savor a piece. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy winter evenings, this tart captures the heart of timeless desserts passed through generations.