I think rhubarb is a very unrated summer fruit—okay it’s technically a vegetable, but you know what I mean! With these 50 best rhubarb recipes you will learn brand new ways to utilize this summer treat in dishes you never could have imagined and some classics that might take you back to your childhood.
What Is Rhubarb?
Rhubarb is classified as a vegetable, and while the stalks are edible and used for food throughout the world, the leaves contain oxalic acid which can be poisonous, so they should be avoided. It is most commonly cooked with sugar and used in desserts as a fruit. The stalks can be eaten raw and have a similar texture to celery, with a very tart flavor.
How To Grow Rhubarb
Rhubarb is relatively easy to grow, both outside and in a greenhouse with these steps:
Plant rhubarb in fertile, free-draining soil.Add organic matter to help with growing. Horse manure works great!If dry periods occur, water well.Rhubarb needs an open, sunny or partially shaded area.Mulch annually during the fall.
When To Harvest Rhubarb
Rhubarb should be picked when the steams are green or red in color. For strong rhubarb, don’t harvest in the first year after planting, and only take a few stalks in the second. Once the plants are established, three years or older, rhubarb is ready to harvest from spring on. Pull and twist the stems from the plant, instead of using a knife, to stimulate new growth. If taken care of properly, rhubarb plants can produce for up to 10 years!
How To Cook and Store Rhubarb
Rhubarb is best eaten as soon as it is picked. However, rhubarb can also be frozen—either cut into chunks and frozen raw, or cooked first and then frozen.
Best Rhubarb Recipes
I found a recipe for our family’s favorite Rhubarb Custard Pie, which I can’t wait to try! Here in Indiana people love Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, so I had to include that one too. I also found those same flavors in rhubarb bars, a crisp, homemade rhubarb jam and even a refreshing punch for sipping poolside! Speaking of drinks, there are recipes for Rhubarb Peach Lemonade and a Rhubarb Moscow Mule. Both would be perfect to impress your guests at your next summer bash. Rhubarb isn’t just for dessert anymore—Rhubarb Honey Got Cheese is a tasty appetizer those crackers in your cupboard are waiting for. Easy Rhubarb Scones could make a summer Sunday brunch extra special. Buttermilk Rhubarb bread is perfect warm from the oven slathered with butter, or toasted too! I can’t wait for all rhubarb fans to discover whole new ways to fall in love with this summer time fruit all over again. With these 50 easy rhubarb recipes, there is sure to be something to please everyone—sweet, tart and in between.
