Saturday, September 26
Ground cherry pies have a bit of sentimental value to us. I learned about them from Cerwin’s mother, and Cerwin thinks she learned about them from Mable Ruth – a friend from the Souderton area.
I think I have a vague memory of my mom or grandmother making one of these, but if the memory is correct, it isn’t a memory that has stayed with me. Nor was it a regular happening in my life.
For those who never heard of ground cherry pies, I will tell you about them from information and photos I found on the internet.
The ground cherry is an American plant of the nightshade family that resembles the cape gooseberry.
Most of the species, of which 75–90 may exist, are indigenous to the Americas. Cultivated species and weedy annuals have been introduced worldwide. A notable feature is the formation of a large, papery husk derived from the calyx, which partly or fully encloses the fruit. The fruit is small and yellow to orange, similar in size, shape, and structure to a small tomato.
Ground cherries are a gem. Ground cherries (Physalis species) are also called cape gooseberries, husk tomatoes, and sweet tomatillos. While the various varieties have different flavors, they’re a blend of pineapples, citrus, and strawberries. The taste is unique and delicious.
Ground cherries are perfect eating when they’re ripe and raw—just husk and pop them in your mouth.
They have a papery husk, but don’t be afraid of these little fruits, since they have a ton of flavor. The little papery husks mean that they’ll stay fresh for a while, and you can experiment with your stash in the fridge.
You can find ground cherries at some supermarkets and farmer’s markets this time of year, and if you do, grab them.
Ground cherries are a much loved Pennsylvania Dutch food. They are eaten fresh, or used to make jellies and jams. Some would say that the best way to enjoy ground cherries is baked into a pie.
End of internet photos and information:
When Cerwin drove by Village Market (Hinkletown) on the way to a prayer breakfast, and saw the advertisement for ground cherry pie, he determined to stop there on the way home.
He was disappointed when he couldn’t find one – thinking they were sold out, but asked the woman who seemed to be in charge. She pointed to a shelf that Cerwin missed.
Thus we were able to satisfy our annual craving for a taste of ground cherry pie.
I had never heard of ground cherries until we visited a high school friend and she served us ground cherry pie a number of years ago. It was delicious. That’s the only time I’ve ever had it. I would love to find some and make a pie — or at the very least, try them raw. I’m glad Cerwin was able to obtain a pie for you. 🙂
Cerwin said, “Just reading this post made him want to go back to Village Market and see if they are still making them.