Irresistible Rhubarb Recipes You’ll Love

Rhubarb, often referred to as the “pie plant,” is a versatile vegetable that shines in a variety of dishes. Its tart flavor and vibrant color make it a favorite ingredient for many home cooks and chefs alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore a range of rhubarb recipes that will take your culinary skills to the next level. From classic desserts to savory dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into these delicious rhubarb recipes and discover new ways to savor this wonderful ingredient.

Rhubarb Strawberry Pie 🍓🥧

A Classic Combination

One of the most popular rhubarb recipes is the rhubarb strawberry pie. This classic dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that delights the taste buds.

Ingredients

To make this delectable pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the fruit is evenly coated.
3. Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour the fruit mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
5. Roll out the top pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
6. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg.
7. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
9. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.

Important Note

Let the pie cool completely before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly.

Rhubarb Crisp 🍽️

A Simple Yet Satisfying Dessert

If you’re looking for an easy rhubarb recipe that still delivers on flavor, rhubarb crisp is the way to go. This dessert features a crunchy, buttery topping that perfectly complements the tartness of the rhubarb filling.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the rhubarb mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Rhubarb Sauce for Pork 🐷

A Savory Twist

Rhubarb isn’t just for desserts. Its unique tartness also pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, such as pork. Rhubarb sauce adds a zesty kick to grilled or roasted pork, making it a standout meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, red onion, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and ground ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the sauce has thickened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the rhubarb sauce warm over grilled or roasted pork.

Important Note

For a smoother sauce, blend the mixture with an immersion blender after cooking.

Rhubarb Muffins 🧁

A Breakfast Delight

Rhubarb muffins are a fantastic way to start your day. These moist, tender muffins are bursting with rhubarb flavor and make a great breakfast or snack option.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Important Note

Toss the rhubarb in a bit of flour before adding to the batter to prevent it from sinking.

Rhubarb Chutney 🍛

A Flavorful Condiment

Rhubarb chutney is a tangy and spicy condiment that pairs beautifully with cheeses, grilled meats, and even sandwiches. This versatile chutney adds a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 large apple, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, apple, red onion, raisins, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and ginger.
2. Stir in mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the chutney has thickened.
4. Allow the chutney to cool before transferring to a jar. Store in the refrigerator.

Rhubarb Lemonade 🍋

A Refreshing Beverage

Rhubarb lemonade is a refreshing and unique twist on traditional lemonade. This delightful beverage is perfect for hot summer days and adds a lovely pink hue to your drink menu.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher, discarding the solids.
4. Stir in the remaining 2 cups of water and the lemon juice.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

Important Note

Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more sugar if desired.

Rhubarb Jam 🍯

Sweet and Tangy Spread

Rhubarb jam is a delicious way to preserve the flavors of spring and summer. This sweet and tangy spread is perfect for toast, scones, and even as a filling for cakes and pastries.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon pectin (optional)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened.
3. If using pectin, stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal. Allow to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.

Rhubarb Compote 🥄

Versatile and Easy

Rhubarb compote is a simple and versatile topping that can be used in a variety of ways. Spoon it over yogurt, pancakes, ice cream, or use it as a filling for crepes and pastries.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Serve warm or chilled.

Important Note

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Rhubarb Sorbet 🍨

A Cool Treat

Rhubarb sorbet is a refreshing and light dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. This frozen treat showcases the tartness of rhubarb in a smooth and icy form.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then puree in a blender until smooth.
4. Stir in the corn syrup.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer the sorbet to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Rhubarb Cocktails 🍸

A Unique Beverage Experience

Rhubarb isn’t just for cooking and baking; it also makes a fantastic ingredient in cocktails. Rhubarb’s tartness adds a unique twist to classic drinks, making them more refreshing and flavorful.

Rhubarb Gin Fizz

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz rhubarb syrup (recipe below)
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• Club soda
• Ice
• Lemon twist for garnish

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, rhubarb syrup, and lemon juice. Shake well with ice.
2. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
3. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon twist.

Rhubarb Syrup

Ingredients

• 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine rhubarb, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
4. Allow the syrup to cool completely before using in cocktails.

Important Note

Store the rhubarb syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake 🍰

A Show-Stopping Dessert

Rhubarb upside-down cake is a stunning dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. The caramelized rhubarb topping adds a beautiful and delicious twist to a classic cake.

Ingredients

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix rhubarb with granulated sugar and set aside.
3. In the cake pan, spread melted butter evenly and sprinkle with brown sugar.
4. Arrange the rhubarb mixture on top of the brown sugar layer.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. In another bowl, beat together milk, vanilla extract, and eggs.
7. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
8. Pour the batter over the rhubarb layer in the cake pan.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Rhubarb Ice Cream 🍦

A Creamy Delight

Homemade rhubarb ice cream is a creamy and delicious way to enjoy the tartness of rhubarb. This recipe combines rhubarb with a rich custard base for a truly indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft. Puree the mixture and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the cream and milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar and egg yolks until pale and thick.
5. Gradually whisk the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
7. Stir in the rhubarb puree and vanilla extract.
8. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
9. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
10. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars 🧀

A Perfect Blend

Rhubarb cheesecake bars are a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with a tart rhubarb layer. These bars are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a saucepan, combine rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
7. Spoon the rhubarb mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
8. Pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the rhubarb layer.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.

Rhubarb Bread 🍞

A Sweet and Tangy Loaf

Rhubarb bread is a delicious quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This moist and flavorful loaf is studded with chunks of rhubarb and has a delightful sweetness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Important Note

For an extra burst of flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter.

Enjoy experimenting with these irresistible rhubarb recipes and discover new ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your cooking. Whether you’re making a classic dessert or trying something savory, rhubarb is sure to add a unique and delicious twist to your dishes.