Rhubarb, a perennial plant with a unique tart flavor, is the unsung hero of the culinary world, often celebrated in pies but versatile enough for much more. Rhubarb recipes harness the vegetable’s bright acidity, transforming it into delectable desserts, savory dishes, and refreshing beverages. Known for its vibrant red stalks and large green leaves (which are toxic and should not be eaten), rhubarb is typically in season from spring to early summer, making it a favorite in seasonal cooking.
Exploring rhubarb recipes reveals a range of creative culinary uses beyond the classic strawberry-rhubarb pie. From tangy rhubarb chutney that pairs wonderfully with meats to a sweet, compote perfect for topping ice cream, the potential of rhubarb extends into every course. Its ability to add depth and zest to dishes makes it a valuable ingredient for innovative home cooks and professional chefs alike.
What to Look for When Buying Rhubarb
When shopping for rhubarb, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you’re picking the best possible stalks for your recipes. First, look for firm and crisp stalks; they should feel sturdy and not limp, much like fresh celery. The color of rhubarb can vary from deep red to light green, with the reddest stalks typically being the sweetest. However, color isn’t always an indicator of maturity or flavor, as some varieties are naturally greener yet still delicious.
Inspect the ends of the rhubarb stalks. Fresh rhubarb will have moist, crisp ends, not dry or split, which can indicate age and dehydration. Also, check for any signs of bruising or blemishes, which could affect the texture and spoil faster. If you’re buying rhubarb out of season, it might have been stored for longer periods, so it’s particularly important to ensure the stalks are not soft or wilted.
Finally, consider the size of the stalks. Thinner stalks are usually younger and tend to be more tender and flavorful, which is great for desserts where a delicate texture is desired. Thicker stalks will work fine for compotes and sauces where the rhubarb is cooked down. Remember, no matter the appearance, the leaves of the rhubarb should always be removed and discarded due to their toxic content.
How to Prepare Rhubarb
- Selecting and Storing Rhubarb To start, choose rhubarb stalks that are firm and deep red in color, as these are usually the most flavorful. However, greener stalks are not necessarily less tasty—they can be equally delicious. After purchasing, trim the leaves off immediately, as they are poisonous and should not be consumed. Store the stalks in your refrigerator wrapped in plastic, where they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you plan to use them later, rhubarb freezes well; simply cut the stalks into chunks and freeze them in airtight bags.
- Preparing Rhubarb for Cooking Before cooking, wash the stalks thoroughly under cold water. Cut off any rough ends and slice the rhubarb into the size and shape required for your recipe—typically, pieces about half an inch thick work well for most dishes. If you find the rhubarb too tart, you can sprinkle some sugar over the chopped pieces and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process, known as macerating, helps draw out moisture and sweetens the rhubarb slightly, making it perfect for desserts or sauces.
- Cooking with Rhubarb Rhubarb can be cooked in various ways depending on the dish you’re preparing. For pies or compotes, simmering the chopped rhubarb with a bit of water and sugar until it breaks down is common. Baking brings out its flavor beautifully, especially when paired with sweet fruits like strawberries or apples. Rhubarb also makes an excellent addition to savory dishes; it can be roasted or stewed with onions and a touch of honey or sugar to create a tangy sauce that complements meats like pork or chicken excellently.
1. Rhubarb Crumble
Image and recipe by goodfood
Indulge in the comforting warmth of our Rhubarb Port Crumble, a delightful blend of sweet and tart. Begin by simmering rhubarb chunks with golden caster sugar and a splash of port, creating a luscious base that’s soft yet holds its shape. Top it with a crumbly mixture of flour, butter, and light brown muscovado sugar, finished with chopped walnuts for a crunch. Bake until golden and serve hot, ideally with a generous pour of thick vanilla custard. This dish promises a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for any dessert lover.
2. Rhubarb Crisp
Image and recipe by loveandlemons
Dive into the delightful tang of rhubarb with our easy-to-bake rhubarb crisp, enhanced by a touch of orange zest. Just mix rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and orange for a zesty filling, then top with a crumbly blend of almond flour, oats, and walnuts, all spiced with cinnamon. Bake until golden and bubbling, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect mix of tart and sweet, a classic dessert with a citrusy twist that you’ll love to share!
“While rhubarb is often cooked down into sauces and desserts, did you know it can also be used fresh? Thinly sliced rhubarb adds a refreshing crunch and tartness to salads, much like a green apple might.”
3. Rhubarb and Custard Muffins
Image and recipe by realfood
Dive into the delightful world of baking with these Sweet and Tangy Rhubarb Muffins, a perfect treat for any time of day. Begin by mixing fresh rhubarb pieces with a blend of melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and yogurt for a moist batter. Layer with custard for a creamy surprise and top off with a sprinkle of demerara sugar for a touch of crunch. Bake until golden and enjoy these heavenly muffins best served fresh or gently warmed the next day for a soft and comforting snack.
4. Savoury Rhubarb and Cinnamon Red Lentil Curry
Image and recipe by lowlyfood
Dive into the aromatic world of this Spiced Rhubarb and Lentil Curry, a delightful twist on traditional flavors. Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until they’re perfectly tender, setting the stage for the star ingredient: rhubarb, enhanced with a rich blend of garam masala, cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Red lentils simmered in a savory vegetable broth transform into a thick, creamy sauce, perfectly complementing the tangy rhubarb. Finish off with fresh spinach and coriander for a burst of color and freshness. This curry pairs wonderfully with fluffy pilau rice or warm naan, making it a must-try dish for an adventurous palate!
“Most people shy away from using rhubarb in savory dishes, but did you know that its tangy profile can beautifully complement fatty meats? Try rhubarb chutney over pork chops for a delightful surprise!”
5. Rhubarb Muffins
Image and recipe by foodnetwork
Dive into the delightful world of baking with these irresistible Rhubarb Crumble Muffins! Start by creating a crumbly, cinnamon-infused topping that sets the stage for the muffin magic to unfold. Prepare your muffin tin and mix together a fluffy batter enriched with the fresh zest of lemon and rich brown sugar. Gently fold in the vibrant rhubarb pieces, being careful to keep the batter light. Top them off with your crumble mixture and bake until golden. Perfect for a cozy morning treat or a sweet afternoon snack, these muffins offer a scrumptious way to enjoy the unique tartness of rhubarb wrapped in a tender, crumbly embrace.
6. Rhubarb and Custard Eton Mess
Image and recipe by olive
Delight in the simplicity of our rhubarb recipe that transforms this tangy vegetable into a decadent dessert. Begin by tenderly baking the rhubarb with a sprinkle of sugar, creating a luscious syrup. Next, whip up a smooth cream infused with vanilla to layer beautifully with the rhubarb. Add chunks of crunchy meringue and a dollop of creamy custard to complete this elegant, glass-served treat. Each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, sure to charm any dessert lover!
7. Rhubarb Cordial
Image and recipe by smittenkitchen
Whisk yourself away to a Parisian café with this delightful rhubarb cordial recipe from David Lebovitz’s book “Drinking French.” A simple mix of fresh rhubarb, vibrant gin, and a citrusy twist creates a refreshing drink that celebrates the essence of spring. After resting for a month, this cordial melds into a perfect sip to enjoy as an apéritif, poured over ice with a splash of tonic or sparkling wine, embodying the leisurely French tradition of l’heure de l’apéro. Embrace the season with every glass of this sweet, seasonal delight.
8. Rhubarb Crumble with Apple
Image and recipe by recipetineats
Dive into the cozy warmth of our Rustic Rhubarb and Apple Crumble, a delightful dessert that marries tangy rhubarb with sweet apple under a golden, scrumptious topping. Begin by tossing rhubarb and apple with sugar and a hint of orange zest, then layer it in a baking dish to create a juicy base. The crumble topping, mixed to a sandy perfection, is scrunched into lumps and sprinkled generously over the fruit. Baked until the fruit is tender and the topping crisply golden, this crumble is best served warm, with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or custard, making every spoonful a comforting treat.
9. Rhubarb Crumble Bars
Image and recipe by del’scookingtwist
Dive into the season with our delightful Rhubarb Crumble Squares! Start by crafting a smooth, buttery base, which forms the perfect foundation for the zesty rhubarb compote. Simmered with lemon and a touch of sugar, the rhubarb transforms into a thick, flavorful layer. Top it off with a crunchy, golden crumble that bakes to perfection. Let it cool, slice into squares, and savor the wonderful blend of textures and tastes that make this dessert a must-try!
“Did you know that rhubarb leaves are toxic due to high concentrations of oxalic acid? Always discard the leaves and only cook with the stalks to ensure your dishes are safe to eat.”
10. Rhubarb-Strawberry Lattice Pie
Image and recipe by marthastewart
Dive into the joy of baking with this Rhubarb and Strawberry Lattice Pie, a perfect blend of tangy rhubarb and sweet strawberries tucked inside a flaky pate brisee crust. Start by mixing your fruity filling, then expertly weave a lattice top that’s not only beautiful but allows bursts of bright flavor to peek through. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake until golden and bubbling. The hardest part? Waiting for it to cool so you can dig in to this picture-perfect dessert!
11. Easy Rhubarb Cake
Image and recipe by theviewfromgreatisland
Dive into the cozy warmth of your kitchen and whip up this delightful Rhubarb Cake, perfect for any baking enthusiast. Begin by prepping a 9×9 pan with butter and optional parchment for easy removal. Mix lemon juice with half and half, then cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. The key is a careful blend of dry ingredients and the creamy mixture, followed by gently folding in rhubarb into a thick batter. Sprinkle with sugar and bake until golden. Enjoy the sweet, tangy slices of this homely treat straight from the oven!
12. Stewed Rhubarb
Image and recipe by everylastbite
Transform your rhubarb into a delightful compote with just a few simple steps. Chop the rhubarb and simmer it gently with honey, orange juice, and zest for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Whether you like it chunky or smooth, this compote can be tailored to your taste. Perfect for topping your favorite desserts or enjoying on its own, this versatile treat can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
13. Rhubarb and Lentil Curry
Image and recipe by greatbritishchefs
This delicious rhubarb and lentil curry is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors. Start by sautéing onion, leek, and celery, then add a fragrant paste of garlic, cumin, and coriander seeds. Stir in turmeric, paprika, rhubarb, lentils, and stock, letting everything simmer until tender. Finish with a touch of sugar and serve this vibrant curry with rice, yogurt, and fresh herbs.
14. Strawberry Rhubarb Jam
Image and recipe by tasteofhome
Dive into the delightful world of homemade jams with this sweet and tangy Strawberry-Rhubarb Jam recipe. Fresh strawberries and rhubarb combine with crushed pineapple and a touch of sugar, simmering together to create a mouthwatering spread. A sprinkle of strawberry gelatin gives it that perfect texture, making it a must-try for toast lovers. Store it in your fridge and enjoy the summer flavors all year round!
“Did you know that rhubarb is actually a vegetable, not a fruit? Despite its tart flavor, which pairs beautifully with strawberries, it’s botanically a relative of garden sorrel and buckwheat.”
15. Clumpy Granola With Stewed Rhubarb
Image and recipe by naturally ella
Transform your breakfast with this delightful Rhubarb Granola Bowl. Start with crunchy, homemade granola packed with oats, almonds, and seeds, lightly sweetened with maple syrup and coconut oil. Pair it with tangy stewed rhubarb, a touch of lemon juice, and fragrant vanilla. Served over creamy coconut yogurt, this bowl is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, guaranteed to kickstart your day with a burst of goodness!
16. Rhubarb & custard scones
Image and recipe by goodfood
Whip up a batch of these delectable rhubarb scones for a perfect afternoon treat! The buttery dough, mixed with a hint of custard powder, is rolled out and chilled before baking to golden perfection. Meanwhile, the rhubarb compote simmers to a sweet and tangy finish, ready to be paired with clotted cream. Serve these scones fresh for a truly delightful experience.
17. Rhubarb and Pistachio Cupcakes Recipe
Image and recipe by realfood
Whip up these delightful rhubarb compote cupcakes for a taste of spring! Start by making a luscious rhubarb compote with a hint of vanilla, then fold it into a light, zesty cupcake batter. After baking to golden perfection, top with a creamy, tangy icing and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a satisfying crunch. These cupcakes are a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors that will have everyone coming back for more!
18. Baked Rhubarb And Custard Cheesecake
Image and recipe by olive
Craving something sweet and tangy? This Rhubarb Swirl Cheesecake is your new go-to! Start with a buttery biscuit base, followed by a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake mixed with a homemade rhubarb sauce. Swirl it all together for a stunning look and bake until perfectly set. After cooling, you’ll have a chilled, delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the fresh zing of rhubarb. Perfect for any occasion!
19. Rhubarb-Strawberry Tart
Image and recipe by marthastewart
Get ready to impress with this Rhubarb Strawberry Tart Delight! A buttery, flaky crust perfectly cradles a juicy, sweet-tart filling of rhubarb and strawberries. After an hour in the oven, you’ll have a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch as your guests marvel at this delicious treat!
20. Strawberry Rhubarb Cream
Image and recipe by tasteofhome
Indulge in the delightful harmony of rhubarb and strawberries with this easy parfait recipe. Cook down rhubarb with sugar until tender, then blend with pureed strawberries and fold in whipped cream. Serve this luscious mixture in elegant parfait glasses, chill until set, and garnish with fresh berries for a refreshing, summery treat. Perfect for a light dessert or a special treat any time of the day!
21. Coconut Rhubarb Amaranth Porridge
Image and recipe by naturallyella
Start your day with this cozy Amaranth Porridge topped with a deliciously tangy rhubarb ginger compote. Toasted amaranth is simmered to perfection with creamy coconut milk, then topped with a warm rhubarb mix infused with cinnamon and ginger. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and an extra drizzle of coconut milk for a breakfast that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a unique and nourishing morning treat!
22. Rhubarb Gin
Image and recipe by goodfood
Transform your spring harvest into a deliciously refreshing drink with this easy Rhubarb Gin recipe. Simply wash, trim, and chop the rhubarb, then mix it with sugar in a jar and let it sit overnight to draw out the juices. The next day, add gin and let the magic happen for about four weeks. Enjoy the beautifully infused gin straight from the jar or strain it for a clearer drink. Cheers to a seasonal delight!
23. Rhubarb And Rose Eton Mess Recipe
Image and recipe by realfood
Indulge in the delicate flavors of this Rhubarb Rose Delight, where tangy rhubarb meets the subtle essence of rosewater. Cook the rhubarb with icing sugar until soft, then fold it into a dreamy mix of whipped cream and yogurt. Layer this luscious blend with crunchy meringue in elegant dessert dishes, and let it chill to perfection. Just before serving, add a touch of elegance with pomegranate seeds and rose petals. A truly enchanting treat for any occasion!
24. Rhubarb Compote
Image and recipe olivemagazine
Roasting rhubarb with orange zest, vanilla, and cardamom creates a heavenly, fragrant treat that’s both tangy and sweet. Simply roast the rhubarb with these aromatic ingredients until tender, then mix in some maple syrup for a perfect balance of flavors. This versatile topping is divine over porridge, yogurt, crumpets, or meringues with whipped cream. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated delight in a variety of ways!
25. Rhubarb Snacking Cake
Image and recipe by smittenkitchen
Get ready to delight in a burst of tangy rhubarb and zesty lemon with this moist and flavorful crumb cake! With a tender base layered with sweetened rhubarb and topped with a buttery cinnamon crumb, this cake is perfect for sharing—if you can resist sneaking a piece first. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, every bite is a delicious treat!
FAQS
1. What is rhubarb?
Rhubarb is a perennial vegetable known for its tart flavor. It is often used as a fruit in culinary practices, especially in pies and desserts, though it can also be used in savory dishes.
2. When is rhubarb season?
Rhubarb season typically runs from April to June. This is when the stalks are most tender and flavorful.
3. Can you eat rhubarb raw?
Yes, rhubarb can be eaten raw, but it is extremely tart, and most people prefer it cooked with a sweetener. It’s important to note that only the stalks are edible; rhubarb leaves are toxic and should never be eaten.
4. What are some popular rhubarb recipes?
Some popular rhubarb recipes include rhubarb pie, rhubarb crumble, rhubarb jam, and rhubarb muffins. It can also be incorporated into savory sauces for meats or added to salads for a tangy twist.
5. How should rhubarb be prepared for cooking?
Rhubarb should be washed, the ends trimmed, and any tough strings removed. It is then typically cut into pieces of the desired size for the recipe being used.
6. How can I make my rhubarb dessert less tart?
To reduce tartness, rhubarb is often cooked with sugar or combined with sweeter fruits like strawberries or apples. Adjusting the amount of sugar based on the tartness of the rhubarb can help balance the flavor.
7. Can rhubarb be frozen?
Yes, rhubarb can be frozen for later use. It’s best to wash, dry, and cut the stalks into the desired size before freezing them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
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