As the first signs of spring arrive, our thoughts turn to fresh flavors and vibrant colors. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious batch of stewed rhubarb? This sweet and tangy vegetable is at its peak in the spring, making it the perfect ingredient for a variety of mouthwatering recipes.
From classic desserts like cobbler and crisps, to savory sauces and even refreshing drinks, stewed rhubarb is incredibly versatile. And with its natural sweetness and tartness, it’s a great way to add some excitement to your cooking repertoire. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of spring’s bounty. Whether you’re looking for sweet treats or savory delights, we’ve got you covered. So grab your rhubarb and let’s get started!
Classic Vanilla Stewed Rhubarb
A sweet and tangy dessert that showcases the beauty of rhubarb, perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, water, and salt.
2. Bring 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. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Compote
Elevate your desserts with this sweet and tangy compote, perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb to create a deliciously balanced flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger-Infused Stewed Rhubarb
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of rhubarb infused with warm ginger in this simple yet flavorful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, ginger, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
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. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Orange and Cardamom Stewed Rhubarb
This Orange and Cardamom Stewed Rhubarb recipe is a unique twist on traditional rhubarb dishes, combining the tartness of rhubarb with the warmth of cardamom and the brightness of orange. The result is a sweet and spicy jam-like consistency that’s perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons grated cardamom
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, orange juice, cardamom, 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 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy consistency.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey-Sweetened Stewed Rhubarb
Rhubarb’s tartness is perfectly balanced by the warmth of honey in this simple and delicious stewed recipe. Perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, honey, 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 15-20 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Cinnamon Stewed Rhubarb
This sweet and tangy stewed rhubarb recipe is a perfect blend of warm spices, tender fruit, and comforting flavors. Serve as a side dish or use as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches long)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add butter, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and cloves to the saucepan.
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until rhubarb is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Maple Glazed Stewed Rhubarb
This classic recipe showcases the sweet and tangy flavors of rhubarb, perfectly balanced by a rich maple glaze. Perfect as a side dish or topped with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh rhubarb stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and maple syrup.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil (about 5 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
4. Stir in butter and cinnamon until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary-Infused Stewed Rhubarb
This recipe combines the natural tartness of rhubarb with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delicious dessert. The stewed rhubarb is perfect as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or served warm with whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rhubarb, rosemary, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring 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. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the liquid and discard the solids (or save for another use).
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Stewed Rhubarb
This sweet and tangy recipe transforms rhubarb into a luscious dessert topping or side dish, perfect for warm weather gatherings. The addition of lemon zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor that complements the natural tartness of the rhubarb.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, butter, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the grated lemon zest.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Earl Grey Tea-Stewed Rhubarb
Experience the delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors with this unique rhubarb recipe infused with the subtle notes of Earl Grey tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 cup Earl Grey tea (brewed and cooled)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, brewed Earl Grey tea, 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 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
This recipe yields a sweet and tangy compote perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. You can also use it as a filling for cakes and pastries or as a side dish for pork chops or grilled meats.
Balsamic Glazed Stewed Rhubarb
Rhubarb’s natural tartness meets the rich flavor of balsamic glaze in this sweet and tangy dessert. Perfect for springtime, this recipe showcases the versatility of rhubarb as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in balsamic glaze and cornstarch mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chai-Spiced Stewed Rhubarb
Chai-Spiced Stewed Rhubarb Recipe
Warm up with this sweet and tangy Chai-spiced stewed rhubarb, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chai spice blend (containing cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, chai spice blend, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers (about 10 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and honey until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Stewed Rhubarb
Transform sweet and tart rhubarb into a rich and creamy dessert with this unique recipe. The coconut milk adds a luxurious texture and flavor to the classic stewed rhubarb.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer (about 5 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in coconut milk, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until rhubarb is tender and sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pineapple and Rhubarb Stew
Pineapple and Rhubarb Stew Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors with this unique and delicious stew recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or pork, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups pineapple chunks
– 1 cup rhubarb strips
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef or pork cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, pineapple chunks, rhubarb strips, chicken broth, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Return the meat to the pot and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
This stew is perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique side dish for your next dinner party.
Minty Fresh Stewed Rhubarb
This sweet and tangy stewed rhubarb recipe is perfect for springtime desserts, with the added freshness of mint. This simple recipe showcases the best of seasonal flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped mint leaves
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, honey, and salt.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves and stir to combine.
3. Pour in the water, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Rhubarb Stewed Delight
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of crisp apples and tart rhubarb, perfect for a cozy evening dessert. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional apple sauce, with the added bonus of rhubarb’s unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, rhubarb, brown sugar, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in cinnamon and salt.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Stewed Rhubarb
This sweet and tangy stewed rhubarb recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, with the added warmth of vanilla bean. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make dessert or topping for your favorite yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the split vanilla bean and cornstarch mixture (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with a little water to make a paste).
5. Return to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Raspberry Rhubarb Stewed Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is a perfect blend of summer flavors, making it a great topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine raspberries, rhubarb, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the fruit has broken down and the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to welcome spring with these 18 delicious stewed rhubarb recipes! From classic vanilla to unique flavor combinations like strawberry and ginger, there’s something for everyone. Try adding a hint of cardamom and orange for a warm and inviting aroma, or infuse your rhubarb with the sweetness of honey or maple syrup. For a savory twist, add some rosemary or chai spices to give it an extra boost. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a tangy compote, these recipes will have you savoring the taste of spring in no time!
