Saskatoon's Jewel: Exploring the Rich Flavour of Saskatoon Berries

Join us as we unravel the rich history and cultural significance woven into these vibrant purple gems. From local recipes that tantalize the taste buds to decadent desserts that showcase their unique flavor, let's explore the essence of Saskatoon berries and the establishments that bring this prairie treasure to life.

The Rich History of Saskatoon Berries

The Saskatoon berry isn't merely a fruit—it’s a delicious chapter in Saskatchewan’s storied past. Indigenous communities across the province have cherished these berries for generations, recognizing not only their nutritional and medicinal value but also savoring their distinctive taste.

Woven into Indigenous culinary traditions, Saskatoon berries grace soups, stews, meat dishes, pemmican, and dried cakes. Beyond the kitchen, the berries find purpose in holistic remedies too—their juice is known for soothing stomach ailments and serving as a gentle laxative. Beyond consuming the berries, its stems can be also crafted into arrows and pipes. It truly is the berry of all trades!

Photo credit to Zoey Schneider

Savor the Saskatoon Experience

If you’re hoping to find your own Saskatoon berry treats in the city, look no further. Several establishments have made Saskatoon berries a cornerstone of their offerings. From charming cafes to high-end restaurants, these businesses not only serve delicious food but also contribute to the narrative of this iconic local fruit.

The Berry Barn: Perhaps the most iconic locale featuring this delicious fruit, the Berry Barn has something for everyone. And while they have plenty of sweet treats that will tickle your fancy, why not try something a little unexpected? We recommend the Saskatoon Berry Chicken Wings!

Cohen's Beer Republic: Cohen’s is a great spot if you’re looking for unpretentious yet elevated pub food. A personal fave is their Bison Burger, which features an absolutely delicious Saskatoon berry ketchup.

Mano's Restaurant & Lounge: Sometimes after a meal, all you want is some delicious New York Cheesecake. Thankfully, Mano’s serves it up with your choice of fruit—including an option for Saskatoons. Try a slice after a tasty evening out.

Lucky Bastard Distillers: If drinks are more up your alley, there’s plenty of Saskatoon-flavoured beverages to choose from. Lucky Bastard has a great hard Saskatoon Berry Iced Tea you need to try. If you’re not a huge fan of sugar, fear not! They even have a sugar-free option available too.

A Perfectly Ripe Recipe: Fluffy Saskatoon Berry Scones

We can’t showcase Saskatoon berries and not offer you up a recipe to try! This particular one comes from my mom Petrina’s own recipe book, and was a favourite in our household growing up. Give it a try for yourself—enjoy it with tea, jam, and a few of your loved ones.

Scones

2 cups flour

¼ cup sugar

2 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp grated orange rind

½ cup cold butter

1 cup buttermilk

⅔ cup Saskatoon berries

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar

½ tsp orange rind

2 tbsp milk

1. Preheat oven to 400°C.

2. Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.

3. Add in orange rind to the mixture.

4. Cut in cold butter to the mixture.

5. Make a well in the mixture. Add in buttermilk. Mix slowly by hand.

6. Add in Saskatoon berries. Mix gently.

7. Separate into mounds on baking sheet with parchment paper.

8. Bake for 15 minutes.

9. While scones are baking, make your icing. Mix together powdered sugar, orange rind, and milk in a bowl and set aside.

10. Once scones are baked, remove from oven. Let cool, and drizzle icing over scones.

11. Enjoy!

Saskatoon berries are more than just a fruit. They’re a symbol of Saskatoon's rich history and a source of amazing culinary inspiration. Whether you're indulging in a classic recipe, savoring a decadent dessert, or discovering new berry-focused establishments, you’re sure to enjoy this classic fruit. Continue celebrating this prairie gem and experience Saskatoon's signature berry in all its delicious glory.