"At the Calgary Stampede, one of Indian Village's most popular and ceremonial foods is Saskatoon Berry Soup. Saskatoon Soup is sweet and sugary. It has mashed up berries. It looks a little like purple juice but it has more red in it. Saskatoon Soup is made by using real berries, sugar and water. You have to boil water and then add the berries and sugar. You have to make sure to keep stirring it or it will stick to the bottom of the pot. It only takes about 20-30 minutes to make. Berry Soup is a very traditional food for Native people. It is used in many ceremonies - that’s why it is still served today at the Stampede."

Jill - Grade 4 student

Berry soup was a traditional food staple and also played an important role in many ceremonies. Saskatoon berries were most often used.

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add sugar and berries, let water and sugar boil at medium heat for 20 minutes. Optional: To thicken soup, gradually add the mixture of flour and water (no lumps).

Stir the soup occasionally, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Additional sugar can be added to sweeten. Boil for at least another 15 – 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Average cooking time: 40 – 60 minutes

Indian Village. (2003). Calgary Exhibition & Stampede.
Retrieved March 4, 2006. from:
http://www.indianvillage.ca/pages/village_recipes.asp
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