Elderberry pie (Tourta samboukas)

The magical elderberry tree, a subject of many myths & legends. It was often planted near farms, where it offered protection against evil spirits & pests. Take some time out for yourself and enjoy this delicious, healthful pie!

200 g flour
150 g butter
50 g thick yogurt
pinch salt

400 g elderberries, cleaned (or substitute half with blackberries)
3 Tablespoons water
4 Tablespoons sugar
150 g ground almonds
zest of 1 lemon
3 Tablespoons rum or other liquor
½ teaspoon cinnamon
3 eggs, separated

Knead the flour, cold butter and salt together. Add yogurt to make a fine pastry. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Preheat oven to 180°C. Placed the washed berries in a pan with water and 3 tablespoons of sugar and cook for several minutes. Remove from the heat and add almonds, zest and liquor. Cool. Beat egg yolks with the remaining sugar until thick, and add the cooled berry mixture. Beat egg whites until stiff and fold gently into the filling mixture.
Roll out the pastry and line a pie plate or springform pan with it. Fill with the berries and bake for 40 minutes.