Are you ready to add some tartness to your life? Look no further than the humble rhubarb! This beloved vegetable (yes, it’s a veggie!) has been delighting palates for centuries with its unique flavor profile – a perfect balance of sweet and sour. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, rhubarb is an ingredient that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! From classic desserts like pie and crisp, to savory sauces and refreshing drinks, rhubarb can be used in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 of our favorite rhubarb recipes – from sweet treats to tangy twists. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Classic Rhubarb Pie
Classic Rhubarb Pie Recipe
Rhubarb’s tart flavor pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries or other fruits, but this classic pie recipe showcases the humble vegetable at its best. A flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling make for a delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the dish and trim the edges.
4. Fill the pie crust with the rhubarb mixture and dot the top with butter pieces.
5. Roll out the remaining pie crust to create a lattice-top crust or use a pastry brush to apply an egg wash.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. Perfect for warm weather, this recipe is easy to make and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together granulated sugar, flour, and lemon juice. Pour over the fruit mixture and toss to coat.
4. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In another bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
6. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rhubarb Compote
Rhubarb’s tart flavor pairs perfectly with sweet ingredients, making it a great addition to various desserts and breakfast dishes. This simple compote recipe brings out the best of rhubarb’s natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. If using honey and lemon, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rhubarb and Ginger Jam
This sweet and tangy jam is a perfect blend of flavors, with the natural tartness of rhubarb balanced by the spicy warmth of ginger. It’s a delicious addition to toast, scones, or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Combine the rhubarb and sugar in a large saucepan.
2. Add the water, ginger, and lemon juice.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test” (when you place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate, it should wrinkle when pushed with your finger).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Rhubarb Custard Bars
These Rhubarb Custard Bars combine the sweetness of custard with the tartness of rhubarb, creating a delightful dessert perfect for springtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Arrange rhubarb on top of crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour custard mixture over rhubarb.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until custard is set and rhubarb is tender. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce
Add a tangy twist to your barbecue game with this sweet and savory rhubarb-based sauce. Perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork chops, this unique condiment is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rhubarb jam
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, rhubarb jam, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rhubarb Lemonade
This sweet and tangy lemonade gets a boost of flavor from the tartness of rhubarb. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique addition to your next brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped rhubarb and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher. Discard the solids.
3. Add the lemon juice and sugar to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with additional rhubarb, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rhubarb Chutney
This sweet and tangy rhubarb chutney is a perfect condiment for your next barbecue or as a topping for crackers or yogurt. Made with just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender.
3. Stir in the honey and season with salt if desired.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rhubarb Muffins
Rhubarb’s tart flavor pairs perfectly with sweet spices and a crumbly topping to create a delicious breakfast or snack treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup rhubarb pieces (about 2 stalks)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, rhubarb, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
6. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rhubarb Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet is a perfect way to enjoy the tart flavor of rhubarb, sweetened with just the right amount of sugar. It’s an ideal dessert for warm weather gatherings or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Whisk in lemon juice and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Freezing Time: At least 2 hours
Rhubarb Bread
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional bread, this rhubarb bread is perfect for breakfast or a snack. The tartness of the rhubarb pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb (about 2 stalks)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in egg until well combined.
5. Stir in chopped rhubarb and optional nuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rhubarb Mojito
Escape to a refreshing getaway with this unique take on the classic mojito, featuring sweet and tangy rhubarb. This flavorful cocktail is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rhubarb (about 2 stalks)
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Club soda, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the rhubarb and mint leaves together with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda.
4. Garnish with an additional sprig of mint and a slice of rhubarb, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake
This classic dessert combines the natural sweetness of caramelized rhubarb with a moist and flavorful cake. Perfect for springtime, this recipe showcases the versatility of rhubarb in a delicious upside-down cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb (about 3 stalks)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Arrange rhubarb slices in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with brown sugar.
6. Pour batter over rhubarb mixture. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rhubarb Ice Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb with the creaminess of ice cream, perfect for spring and summer. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a blender, puree the rhubarb with 1/4 cup of the sugar until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and remaining sugar until dissolved.
4. Add the vanilla extract and blend well.
5. Combine the rhubarb mixture and cream mixture in the ice cream maker.
6. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (approx. 20-30 minutes).
7. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: Approx. 25 minutes (including churning time)
Rhubarb Galette
This rustic galette is a perfect way to showcase the sweet-tart flavor of rhubarb. With a simple crust and minimal sugar, this dessert lets the natural sweetness of the fruit shine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 2 cups rhubarb, chopped (about 4-5 stalks)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Arrange the rhubarb in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges of the crust over the filling, forming a rough circle.
7. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Rhubarb Sauce for Pancakes
Brighten up your pancake game with this simple and delicious rhubarb sauce recipe! This sweet and tangy condiment is the perfect accompaniment to fluffy pancakes, waffles, or even yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rhubarb Gin Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail combines the tartness of rhubarb with the crispness of gin, perfect for a warm summer evening. The sweetness from the simple syrup and lime juice balances out the flavors, making it a delightful twist on a classic G&T.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz rhubarb syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Rhubarb Syrup Recipe (optional):
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb stalks, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, rhubarb syrup, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (preparation time: 10 minutes)
Rhubarb and Apple Crumble
Rhubarb and Apple Crumble Recipe
This sweet and tangy dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of apples, topped with a crunchy oat crumble. Perfect for a cozy evening treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rhubarb, sliced
– 1 cup apple, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, apple, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rhubarb Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a sweet and tangy treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the creaminess of yogurt. This simple parfait recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh rhubarb, diced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the diced rhubarb and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon a layer of yogurt into the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add a layer of the rhubarb mixture on top of the yogurt.
4. Sprinkle a layer of granola over the rhubarb.
5. If using pecans, sprinkle them over the granola.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of yogurt on top.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Rhubarb BBQ Ribs
This unique twist on traditional BBQ ribs combines the natural sweetness of rhubarb with the tanginess of a classic BBQ sauce, resulting in a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1 cup rhubarb jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together rhubarb jam, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for tender results).
4. Slather the rhubarb-BBQ mixture evenly onto both racks of ribs.
5. Bake for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulled away from the bone.
6. Finish with an additional 10-15 minutes under broiler to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the tangy side of rhubarb with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic pies and crisps to unique desserts like custard bars and sorbet, we’ve got you covered. Try making a strawberry rhubarb crisp for a sweet twist on the classic pie, or whip up some rhubarb barbecue sauce for your next BBQ. If you’re looking for something new and exciting, try adding rhubarb to your yogurt parfait or using it in a refreshing mojito cocktail. With so many options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
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