Homemade Strawberry Pie

Ingredients:

• Your favorite pie crust (homemade or store-bought, per package directions)
• For the Gel Filling:
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 heaping tbsp strawberry jello
  • 4 level tbsp corn starch
  • A few drops of red food coloring (optional)
• Fresh strawberries (use a generous amount)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • Bake your favorite pie crust according to your preference. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made unroll pastry crusts. Stone pans work well for baking.

1. Make the Gel Filling:
   • In a microwave-safe glass, bring 1 cup of water to a boil in the microwave.
   • In a good-sized, heavy kettle (especially if making more than one pie), mix together the sugar, strawberry jello, corn starch, and red food coloring (if desired).
   • Pour the boiling water into the dry ingredients and mix well.

1. Cook the Gel Filling:
   • Place the kettle on medium heat and stir the mixture often using a wire whisk.
   • Continue cooking for a while until the gel thickens and starts pulling away from the sides of the kettle. Be patient; this step takes some time.

1. Cool the Gel Filling:
   • Once the gel filling has thickened, remove it from heat and allow it to cool completely. It should be cool before adding the strawberries.
2. Assemble the Pie:
   • When you're ready to assemble the pie, fold the fresh strawberries into the cooled gel filling.
   • Carefully fill your baked pie shell with the strawberry mixture.
3. Decorate and Serve:
   • If desired, save a few pretty strawberries to decorate the top of the pie.
   • Optionally, you can dip some of the berries in chocolate if time allows.

1. Enjoy:
   • Serve and enjoy your homemade strawberry pie!

Remember to give thanks and savor your delicious strawberry pie!