Green Garden Journal

Rhubarb – it’s that tangy, ruby-red vegetable that often perplexes home cooks. But rest assured, Rhubarb, with its tart flavour and vibrant colour, can be transformed into mouthwatering dishes that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. We’ll dive into some of the best recipes for rhubarb, from classic desserts to savoury delights!

1. Rhubarb Crisp: Let’s start with a classic. Rhubarb crisp is a comforting dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, crunchy topping. Begin by preheating your oven and chopping up your rhubarb stalks into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with sugar, a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavour, and a touch of cornstarch to thicken the juices. Then, in another bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until it forms a crumbly mixture. Pour the rhubarb into a baking dish, sprinkle the topping over it evenly, and bake until the rhubarb is bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crisp. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
2. Rhubarb Jam: Homemade jam is always a winner, and rhubarb jam is no exception. This simple recipe requires just three ingredients: rhubarb, sugar, and lemon zest. Start by washing and chopping your rhubarb into small pieces, then combine it in a saucepan with sugar and lemon zest. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb breaks down and the mixture thickens into a luscious jam. Spoon it into sterilized jars and seal tightly for a taste of summer that you can enjoy all year round.
3. Rhubarb Compote: Looking for a versatile rhubarb recipe? Try making rhubarb compote. This easy-to-make condiment is perfect for adding a pop of flavor to a variety of dishes. Simply chop your rhubarb and combine it in a saucepan with sugar and a splash of water. Cook it over low heat until the rhubarb softens and breaks down, then use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, yogurt, oatmeal, or even ice cream. You can also experiment with adding other fruits or spices to customize the flavour to your liking.
4. Rhubarb Chutney: Elevate your cheese platter or charcuterie board with homemade rhubarb chutney. This sweet and tangy condiment pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses, meats, and sandwiches. To make it, start by cooking chopped rhubarb with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices like ginger, mustard seeds, and cinnamon. Let it simmer until thick and jammy, then transfer it to sterilized jars and let it cool before serving. The complex flavors of the chutney will complement the other elements of your spread and leave your guests coming back for more.
5. Rhubarb BBQ Sauce: Add a unique twist to your summer grilling with rhubarb BBQ sauce. This tangy-sweet sauce is perfect for brushing on ribs, chicken, pork chops, or tofu before they hit the grill. To make it, simmer chopped rhubarb with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices like garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper until thick and flavourful. Let it cool slightly before using it to baste your favourite protein, then enjoy the delicious results of your culinary creativity.
6. Rhubarb Salad Dressing: Take your salads to the next level with homemade rhubarb salad dressing. This bright and tangy dressing is perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled shrimp. To make it, blend cooked rhubarb with olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, and herbs like thyme or basil until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to taste, then toss it with your favourite salad ingredients for a refreshing burst of flavour that will liven up any meal.
7. Rhubarb Sorbet: Beat the heat with refreshing rhubarb sorbet. This simple frozen treat is made by simmering rhubarb with sugar and water until soft, then pureeing it until smooth and freezing it in an ice cream maker until creamy and scoopable. The vibrant pink colour and tangy flavour of the sorbet make it the perfect palate cleanser or light dessert after a hearty meal. Serve it on its own or alongside fresh berries for an extra burst of sweetness.
8. Rhubarb Cocktails: Cheers to rhubarb season with creative rhubarb cocktails. Muddle rhubarb with herbs like mint or basil in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, then add your choice of spirit – vodka, gin, rum, or even tequila – along with a splash of citrus juice and simple syrup. Shake well with ice, then strain into a glass and garnish with a rhubarb ribbon or twist for an extra touch of elegance. Whether you prefer your cocktails sweet or sour, fruity or herbaceous, rhubarb adds a unique twist that will elevate any drink to new heights.

In conclusion, rhubarb is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious recipes, from sweet desserts to savoury condiments and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re baking a rhubarb crisp, making homemade jam, or mixing up a rhubarb cocktail, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this tangy vegetable. So next time you come across rhubarb at the store or in your garden, don’t hesitate to give these recipes a try or make your own!