Saskatoon berry pie is a beloved prairie dessert that showcases the unique flavor of Saskatoon berries, also known as serviceberries or juneberries. These small, purple berries are native to the Canadian prairies and have been used by Indigenous peoples for centuries in both food and medicine.

The Saskatoon berry has deep roots in Canadian history, particularly in the prairie provinces. Indigenous peoples traditionally used these berries in pemmican and other preserved foods. The city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is actually named after this berry, which in Cree is called "misâskwatômina."

Making a Saskatoon berry pie involves creating a delicate balance of sweetness and the berries' natural almond-like flavor. The berries are combined with sugar, a touch of lemon juice, and a small amount of thickener, then encased in a flaky pie crust. Some bakers add a hint of almond extract to enhance the berries' natural nutty notes, while others might include cinnamon or nutmeg.

While traditional recipes keep things simple to highlight the unique flavor of the berries, modern variations might include other fruits like apples or rhubarb. The pie can be made with a full top crust, a lattice design, or a crumble topping. It's often served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Today, Saskatoon berry pie remains a staple dessert in prairie households and local restaurants. The berries are harvested in mid-summer, and many families maintain the tradition of picking their own berries for pies and preserves. While fresh berries are seasonal, frozen Saskatoon berries allow this pie to be enjoyed year-round.

From a nutritional perspective, Saskatoon berries are high in antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and calcium. A slice of pie contains approximately 300-350 calories, with the majority coming from the crust and added sugars. The berries themselves are considered a superfood, though their health benefits are somewhat offset by the pie's other ingredients.