Baked Fraughan Pie: A Hearty meal for Everyone!
Welcome, foodies! As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I am thrilled to share this delicious Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie) recipe with you today. With St. Patrick’s Day approaching, it is the perfect time to try out some classic Irish recipes.
This Fraughan Pie recipe is a beautiful twist on a classic blueberry pie that uses wild blueberries known as Fraughans in Ireland. These small, sweet little berries are only available for a few weeks each year, and their unique flavor sets them apart from regular blueberries.
This pie has a rich, buttery crust filled with fresh blueberries mixed with lemon juice, honey, and brown sugar that makes for an irresistible combination of flavors. Not to mention, the aroma will fill your home with a delicious scent guaranteed to make your mouth water.
Perfect for brunch, dessert or as a snack, this Fraughan Pie recipe is easy and quick to make, enough to serve 4-6 people. So why not give it a go? It will surely add color and texture to your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any gathering throughout the year.
So grab your rolling pin and some flour – let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a dessert that embodies the tastes of Ireland and celebrates the sweet, tart flavor of blueberries? If so, you’ll love this Fraughan Pie recipe. Not only is it a classic blueberry pie recipe with a twist, but it also includes wild Fraughan berries – a hidden gem of the Irish countryside.
One of the reasons you’ll love this pie is that it’s perfect for any occasion but particularly for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. It’s a great way to showcase your appreciation for Irish culture while indulging in an exciting and unique blueberry dessert.
Furthermore, this pie is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that most home cooks likely already have in their kitchens. From flour and salt to butter and sugar, this recipe is the perfect combination of classic flavors with an Irish twist.
Finally, while Fraughan berries might be challenging to find in your local grocery store, you can opt for either fresh or frozen blueberries, which work equally well with this recipe.
So why not try something new and impress your family and friends with this incredible Fraughan Pie on St. Patrick’s Day or any day you crave a fruit pie? You’ll undoubtedly enjoy its uniquely Irish twist on the classic blueberry filling.
Ingredient List
Let’s start with the ingredients you will need to make this Fraughan Pie that celebrates the flavors of wild blueberries. Here are the items you’ll need:
- For the Pie Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon caster sugar
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
-
3-4 tablespoons of cold water, plus extra if needed
-
For the Pie Filing:
- 4-6 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries (you can also mix in some other berries like cranberries)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- Juice of half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons of clear honey
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
The pie crust is made using a classic recipe that involves combining flour, salt, caster sugar, and diced butter in a bowl. Cut in the butter until it has a crumbly texture, then add cold water until the dough comes together. For the filling, you will need fresh or frozen blueberries (or a combination with cranberries), light brown sugar, caster sugar, lemon juice, clear honey and all-purpose flour. Make sure to measure out everything accurately to achieve the best results.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the ingredient list, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started with making the delicious Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie).
Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
A good pie crust is essential for a perfect pie, and this recipe is no exception. Start by making the crust. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, and 2 tbsp of caster sugar in a bowl. Add cubed butter (1 cup) to create coarse crumbles. Gradually add cold water (4-6 tbsp) until the dough sticks together.
Next, divide the dough into two portions and shape them into balls. Flatten each ball and wrap them separately with plastic wrap; refrigerate at least for an hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix 4 cups of fresh blueberries, 1 cup of light brown sugar, ¾ cup of clear honey, 2 tsp of fresh lemon juice, and 2 tsp of all-purpose flour.
Take out one of the dough balls from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface into a circle around ⅛-inch (3mm) thick. Place it in a deep-dish pie plate (9-inch/23cm) and gently press it down; you can also trim any excess. Pour the blueberry filling mixture into the crust.
Step 3: Make the Lattice Top
Roll out the other dough ball using the same process as before. Cut long strips with a knife or pizza cutter with around ½ inch width. Make a lattice pattern over the top of your filled pie carefully.
If you want to make a full crust on top rather than a lattice, roll out the dough ball to fit the top of the filled pie, then cut a few slits to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Before you pop your masterpiece into the oven, brush it with beaten egg (1) to make it golden and to give it that perfect shine. You can also sprinkle some sugar on top if you like. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbly-hot and golden-brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie) is perfect for serving with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or drizzled with honey.
Enjoy your creation with your family and friends!
Substitutions and Variations
While this Fraughan Pie recipe is a classic blueberry filling, there are some substitutions and variations you can make to customize it according to your preference. Here are a few ideas:
– Mixed berry pie: Instead of using only blueberries, try mixing in some cranberries or other types of berries for a more diverse flavor. Frozen blueberries or mixed berries can also work as substitutes.
– Swapping sweeteners: While the recipe calls for a mix of caster sugar, light brown sugar, and clear honey, you can experiment with using only one type of sweetener or swapping for alternatives like maple syrup or agave nectar.
– Gluten-free crust: If you have gluten sensitivities or prefer a gluten-free diet, consider making a crust with almond flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
– Lemon zest: Adding lemon zest to the filling can give it a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the blueberries. You can also use lemon juice instead of water to add extra zing.
– Mini pies: To personalize your Fraughan Pie experience, try making mini versions by using muffin pans and small cutters for the dough. They’re perfect for individual servings and great for sharing with friends and family.
No matter which substitutions or variations you choose, don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.
Serving and Pairing
This fraughan pie is an ideal dessert for any occasion! It is a charming tribute to traditional Irish baking, perfect for Saint Patrick’s Day or any other special event. The beautiful violet hue of the blueberry filling will catch your eye, and its aroma alone will make your mouth water.
Serve this pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or dust it with caster sugar. The tangy taste of the blueberry filling and the sweetness of clear honey are an unbeatable combination that will elevate every bite! The dessert’s creamy texture and fruity flavor make it suitable for pairing with other dishes, too.
For breakfast, have a slice of the pie with a cup of tea or coffee, and enjoy its fresh flavor to start your day. In case you like more adventures in taste, pair this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
This classic berry pie pairs wonderfully with a wide array of drinks including champagne, white wine, brewed coffee or even beer. With little efforts and supplies required to make the delicious pie recipe framughan, it’s hard not to try making this irish specialty as soon as possible.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about Fraughan Pie is that you can make it ahead of time, which is perfect for those with busy schedules or who like to plan ahead. This pie can be refrigerated for up to three days before serving, giving you one less thing to worry about on the day you plan on serving it.
When storing the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in and causing any discoloration. If you’re planning on freezing it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to reheat, allow the pie to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions below.
To reheat your Fraughan Pie, preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the top of the pie and cover just the edges loosely with some strips of aluminum foil (to prevent them from burning). Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.
Another option is to reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds per slice. This method is perfect if you’re looking to serve just one or two slices at a time.
One thing to keep in mind is that once heated, the fruit may become more soft and release some moisture which could cause a slight change in texture from when it was first baked. But don’t worry too much about this as it won’t affect the wonderful flavor of this pie.
So whether you’re making it a few days ahead of time or just need to store leftovers until tomorrow’s dessert, Fraughan Pie is an excellent choice for making ahead, storing and reheating.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to baking pies, there are always little tips and tricks that can make a big difference in the final result. As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I have had my fair share of pie-making experiences, and I’m excited to share with you some tips that will help you achieve perfect results with your Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie) recipe.
1. Use fresh blueberries
One of the most important things you can do to ensure a delicious pie is to use fresh blueberries. Frozen berries contain a lot more moisture than fresh ones, which can result in a soggy pie. If fresh blueberries are not in season or readily available, try using wild blueberries which usually have the same effect at preserving texture and flavor.
2. Pre-cook your filling
To avoid a runny filling that spills out of your pie when you cut into it, pre-cook the filling before adding it to the crust. This also cuts down on the cooking time for the crust and ensures even cooking.
3. Use cold butter and cold water for the crust
When making the crust for your Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie), make sure all your ingredients are cold before mixing them together. This prevents the butter from melting too quickly and makes the crust flaky and tender.
4. Blind-bake your crust
Blind-baking means baking the crust before adding the filling. This is particularly important when making fruit pies like Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie), as it prevents a soggy bottom and ensures that the crust remains crispy.
5. Add lemon juice for balance
When making any kind of sweet fruit pie, adding a splash of lemon juice can balance out the sweetness of the fruit and provide a zippy flavor dimension.
By following these five simple tips, you’ll be on your way to making perfect Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie) every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own!
FAQ
As you prepare to try out this delicious Fraughan Pie recipe, it is important to address common questions and concerns that might arise. Here are some frequently asked questions and valuable tips to help you avoid complications, achieve perfect results, and elevate your experience with this classic Irish blueberry dessert.
What is the best thickener for blueberry pie?
When it comes to thickening your fruit filling for a single 9-inch pie or for 8 cups of fruit, there are several options available. All-purpose flour is a common choice that requires just 1 tablespoon for 1 cup of fruit or 1/2 cup for the entire pie. Alternatively, you can opt for Instant ClearJel, which preserves the fruit’s natural color and flavor and only requires 2 teaspoons for a single cup of fruit or 1/3 cup for the whole pie. Cornstarch is another option, with 2 and 1/2 teaspoons needed for a cup of fruit or 6 tablespoons and 2 teaspoons for the entire pie. Lastly, quick-cooking tapioca can be used as a thickener and requires 1 and 1/2 teaspoons for a single cup of fruit or 1/4 cup for the entire pie.
What makes blueberry pie runny?
When baking a fruit pie, it is important to keep track of the baking time. If a pie is not baked for long enough, it may end up runny even if you used a thickener. Sometimes, the crust may look light brown, leading you to believe that the pie is fully baked when it is not. It is essential to ensure the pie is baked for at least the recommended times to give the thickener time to work correctly.
Should I use cornstarch or flour for apple pie?
The choice between using cornstarch or flour for thickening a filling ultimately boils down to individual preference. Cornstarch is known for imparting a shiny and polished appearance whereas flour results in a more muted, matte finish. It’s worth noting that cornstarch has superior thickening abilities compared to flour, as it possesses twice the amount of gelling power. However, in terms of taste and texture, both options can produce excellent results.
Can you use pectin to thicken pie filling?
Cook’s Illustrated thickens its peach pie filling with a mixture of pectin and cornstarch which can be easily obtained in packaged form.
Bottom Line
To conclude, fraughan pie, also known as Irish blueberry pie, is the perfect dessert for any season. Its buttery and flaky crust combined with a tangy blueberry filling provides a delicious explosion of flavor in every bite. This recipe is easy to follow, and with just a few simple ingredients you can enjoy a traditional Irish dessert in no time.
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just want to indulge in a delicious fruit pie, this fraughan pie recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to add your own twist to it by substituting the blueberries for cranberries or mixing them with other berries. This pie can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for whenever you have a sweet craving.
So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t regret it. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, it’s no surprise that fraughan pie has been enjoyed by generations of Irish families. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this classic dessert as much as I do!
Fraughan Pie (Irish Blueberry Pie) Recipe
Ingredients
PASTRY
- 4 ounces all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling out)
- 2 ounces butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 -2 tablespoon cold water
- 1 pinch salt
- extra flour, for rolling out pastry dough
FILLING
- 1 lb blueberries (fraughans)
- 4 ounces light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons clear honey
- 2 fluid ounces lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
TO FINISH
- 1 egg, beaten
- caster sugar (superfine)
Instructions
- Pre heat the oven to 200 C, 400 F, gas mark 6; lightly grease a 10 inch ovenproof pie plate.
- To make the pasty: sieve the flour and salt together in a bowl, then rub in the butter to a breadcrumb consistency; gradually add enough water to bind the ingredients.
- Divide the pastry into two and on a lightly floured pastry board roll out both halves to 1/8 inch thick circles to fit the pie plate; place one circle onto the greased pie plate, prick with a fork and bake blind for about 10 minutes; remove from oven and allow to cool while you make the filling.
- To make the filling: combine all filling ingredients and check for sweetness, adding extra sugar if desired; pour filling on top of the cooked pastry; then cover the entire plate with the second circle of pastry and press the edges together; trim the edges then prick the top with a fork and brush with beaten egg.
- Place the pie back in the oven for about 20 minutes or golden brown; when cooked sprinkle with sugar and serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.