Rhubarb is a unique and tangy vegetable that often gets mistaken for fruit. I remember the first time I tasted rhubarb pie at my grandmother’s house. The sweet and tart flavors danced on my palate, and I was hooked. This experience sparked my love for rhubarb, leading me to discover the 10 best rhubarb recipes that I can’t wait to share with you.
What is Rhubarb?
Rhubarb is a perennial plant with large green leaves and thick red stalks. The stalks are the edible part, while the leaves are toxic. Its tartness makes it perfect for desserts, jams, and savory dishes.
Why You Should Love Rhubarb Recipes
Rhubarb is not just delicious but also versatile. It pairs well with sweet fruits like strawberries and can add a unique twist to savory dishes. Plus, it’s low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a healthy choice.
1. Classic Rhubarb Pie
This recipe is a staple in many households. The flaky crust paired with the sweet and tart filling is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Pie
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make It
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a bowl, mix rhubarb, sugar, flour, and vanilla.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust and cover with another crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
2. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
This dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, topped with a crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
How to Make It
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a baking dish, combine strawberries and rhubarb.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, flour, and butter until crumbly.
- Spread the oat mixture over the fruit and bake for 30-35 minutes.
3. Rhubarb Sauce
Rhubarb sauce is incredibly easy to make and can be used as a topping for pancakes or yogurt.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Sauce
- 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
How to Make It
- In a saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Mash with a fork or potato masher for a smoother consistency.
4. Rhubarb Muffins
These muffins are a delightful way to start the day. The tart rhubarb pairs perfectly with a sweet muffin base.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Muffins
How to Make It
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, milk, butter, and egg until combined.
- Fold in rhubarb and pour batter into the muffin tin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
5. Rhubarb Jam
Homemade rhubarb jam is a fantastic spread for toast or biscuits.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Jam
- 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 3 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
How to Make It
- In a large pot, combine rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until rhubarb breaks down.
- Boil for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Pour into sterilized jars.
6. Rhubarb Ice Cream
Rhubarb ice cream is a refreshing treat for hot summer days. The tartness of rhubarb makes this ice cream unique and delicious.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Ice Cream
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make It
- In a saucepan, combine rhubarb and sugar. Cook until rhubarb softens.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and cool.
- In a bowl, mix cream, milk, and vanilla. Combine with rhubarb mixture.
- Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Rhubarb Salad
Rhubarb can also shine in savory dishes. This salad combines fresh greens with a tangy rhubarb dressing.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Salad
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
- In a blender, combine rhubarb, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Toss mixed greens with the dressing and serve immediately.
8. Rhubarb Compote
Rhubarb compote is a versatile dish that can be used as a topping for desserts or breakfast items.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Compote
- 3 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
How to Make It
- In a saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
- Cook over medium heat until rhubarb is tender.
- Cool and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
9. Rhubarb Pancakes
These pancakes are a fun twist on a breakfast classic. The rhubarb adds a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with syrup.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Pancakes
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
How to Make It
- In a bowl, mix flour and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk milk and egg.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in rhubarb.
- Pour batter onto a hot griddle and cook until bubbles form. Flip and cook until golden.
10. Rhubarb Sorbet
Rhubarb sorbet is a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Sorbet
- 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- Juice of 1 lemon
How to Make It
- In a pot, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water. Cook until rhubarb breaks down.
- Blend until smooth and stir in lemon juice.
- Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker or a shallow dish, stirring occasionally until firm.
Tips for Cooking Rhubarb Recipes
- Always use the stalks, as the leaves are toxic.
- Pair rhubarb with sweet ingredients to balance its tartness.
- Store rhubarb in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Rhubarb is a delightful ingredient that can be used in many ways. Whether you prefer sweet desserts or savory dishes, there is a rhubarb recipe for you. I hope these 10 best rhubarb recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.