Prairie Crumble Recipe
Prairie Crumble is a hearty and rustic dessert that pays homage to the vast open spaces of the prairie lands. Traditionally inspired by the bountiful harvests, Prairie Crumble is a staple in Midwestern cuisine, characterized by its use of simple and wholesome ingredients.
Background
Originating from the heartlands of North America, the Prairie Crumble has roots that stretch back to the early settlers. Faced with limited resources, these pioneers utilized what was abundant: fresh apples and berries, grains, and dairy, making this dish a reflection of resourcefulness and creativity. Historically, crumbles have been enjoyed as both a dessert and breakfast, offering both sweetness and sustenance. The Prairie Crumble, with its coarser topping, distinguishes itself with a uniquely crunchy texture.
Ingredients
- Apples - 5 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Mixed berries - 2 cups, fresh or frozen
- Rolled oats - 1 cup
- All-purpose flour - 1 cup
- Brown sugar - 1 cup, packed
- Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and diced
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon
- Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - a pinch
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Toss them gently with lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning. Add the mixed berries and stir to combine evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, and brown sugar. Add a pinch of salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is the trademark topping of a Prairie Crumble, adding a delightful crunch once baked.
Assembly and Baking
Step 1: Assemble the Crumble
Spread the apple and berry mixture evenly in a lightly greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit, ensuring complete coverage.
Step 2: Bake the Crumble
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, or until the topping turns golden brown and the fruit beneath bubbles up delectably. Make sure to set a timer to keep track of your baking time.
How to Enjoy Your Prairie Crumble
Let the Prairie Crumble cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For breakfast, consider serving it topped with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. The Prairie Crumble embodies a balance of sweet, tart fruit beneath a crunchy, buttery topping, perfect for any time of the day.
Whether you are enjoying it with family or transporting yourself to the wide-open prairies, this crumble invites you to savor tradition in every bite.
Conclusion
In essence, Prairie Crumble is more than just a dish; it's a piece of history and a testament to the simplicity and richness of prairie life. As you relish each bite, you'll appreciate the flavors and textures that have stood the test of time, welcoming you to the expansive embrace of the prairies.