Pie

Pie
Pie
Me oh myNothing tastes sweet, wet, salty and dry
all at once o well it's pie
Apple!
Pumpkin!
Minced
an' wet bottom.
Come to your place everyday if you've got em
Pie
Me o my
I love pie

These are the lyrics from "The Pie Song" in the movie "Michael" starring John Travolta, William Hurt, and Andie MacDowell.

Pie is one of the perfect foods. So many kinds of pie but it seems an underrated food. Cake gets more press -- birthday, wedding, cup. Pie receives attention at Thanksgiving when pumpkin and mincemeat become important. Apple pie is linked with America; "American as apple pie." Pecan pie is Southern as is peach pie. I guess all the rest are up for grabs.


I like all fruit pies and while some people are picky about crusts, I don't place a lot of attention on the pastry part of a pie. It is important to have a crust but, for me, it doesn't make or break the pie. Cream pies are dicey. While banana cream pie and coconut cream pie are yummy, I want no part of chocolate cream pie or French silk pie. Pecan pie is too sweet. Key lime pie is a favorite while lemon meringue is just okay.


Cheesecake is cut like a pie but is called a cake. It has a crust of sorts but is called cake. While cheesecake is very good, I'll take a fruit pie over a cheesecake.


We were at Betty's Pies in Two Harbors, Minnesota, last summer. The restaurant had a full menu and then about 50 pie varities. The place was packed and the pies are famous. I can't imagine being near Two Harbors again without stopping in at Betty's Pies.


Norske Nook in Osseo, Wisconsin, is known for its pies. I had sour cream and raisin pie there, and while a seemingly an odd combination, it was a delicious pie. I think they may still use lard in the crust.


Baker's Square has good pies although not as good as Norske Nook or Betty's Pies. My favorite at Baker's Square is their strawberry pie. Mmmmmm. Hard to go wrong with strawberries anyway but this pie is extra good.


It would be great fun to go into a restaurant and order a slice of each pie just as was done in "Michael." Whipped cream and vanilla ice cream would be available sides. Now that's my idea of a party.