Yogi Berra once said: “Cut my pie into four pieces, I don’t think I could eat eight.”
The baseball legend apparently had a healthy appetite for dessert. As do I for one particular variety, which we’re honouring today.
April 28 is International Blueberry Pie Day, and you’d be hard pressed to find a tastier treat, let alone a more nutritious berry. But before we sit down and celebrate with a heavenly slice, let’s learn a little more about this rock star among fruits.
Lowbush versus Highbush Blueberries
After the U.S., Canada is the second-largest producer of blueberries. Blueberries can be “lowbush” or “wild”, and “highbush,” which are cultivated. Lowbush berries aren’t planted, but managed by growers, and they tend to be smaller and not as uniform as cultivated. But their tiny size packs a punch. Highbush are harvested earlier, making them less perishable and more available fresh.
Either way, demand is up, which is keeping growers busy. After all, who hasn’t heard about the health benefits of blueberries?
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Studies show positive effects like preventing cancer, improving cardiovascular health, and slowing the aging process – in particular, the loss of memory and motor skills.
Here are two more fun facts (after all, I’m more science nerd than pastry chef!):
- Much of the magic is due to the flavonoid ‘anthocyanin’ – the stuff responsible for their deep colour. Tests have also shown that blueberries are the reigning champs in antioxidant activity. Some argue that goji berries have more, but try eating a handful and you’ll choose blue every time.
- A half cup of blueberries has only 43 calories and is a good source of fibre and vitamin C.
So, if you’re going to indulge your sweet tooth, nothing tops blueberry pie – other than perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over its flaky crust. We’ve included a recipe from the Ontario Berry Grower’s Association website, but to save time, why not try Vince’s Own Blueberry Pie?
You’ll find it in the Bakery, among our great selection of locally-made pies. Just warm in the oven and serve to your adoring fans. That’s what I’ll be doing to mark the day – at least until my baking skills are up to scratch.
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It’s been a slice
Neil
