Happy National Blueberry Day

Happy National Blueberry Day everyone! Blueberries are delicious and nutritious fruits that are loved by many people around the world. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Whether you enjoy them fresh, in smoothies, baked goods, or in jams and jellies, blueberries add a burst of flavor and color to various dishes. They are also known for their potential health benefits, such as improving brain function, promoting heart health, and aiding in digestion. So, on this special day, feel free to indulge in some juicy blueberries and celebrate their goodness. To help you along here is one of my favorite recipes.

Classic Blueberry Pie

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• ¼ to ½ cup ice water

For the filling:

• 6 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces

For the topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing it into the dough until it comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cinnamon for the filling. Gently toss everything together until the blueberries are coated evenly. Set aside.
5. Take one chilled dough disk out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and trim any excess around the edges.
6. Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust, then scatter the small pieces of butter over the top.
7. Roll out the second chilled dough disk and either cover the pie entirely or create a lattice pattern by cutting the dough into strips and weaving them over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges of the crust as desired.
8. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with the tablespoon of sugar.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

This blueberry pie is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature. Serve it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Enjoy!