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When you think about summer, one of the first flavors that might pop into your head is the combination of strawberry and rhubarb. It’s a mix of sweet and tart that makes your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a pie, a jam, or a crumble, these two ingredients together are simply irresistible. If you’ve never tried strawberry rhubarb, or maybe you’re looking to explore more ways to use them, you’ve come to the right place!
This blog will answer some of the most common questions about strawberry rhubarb, and give you tips, ideas, and more. Let’s dive into the delicious world of strawberry rhubarb!
What’s So Special About Strawberry Rhubarb?
Strawberry rhubarb is a pairing that has stood the test of time. It combines the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tangy, almost sour flavor of rhubarb. Even though rhubarb is actually a vegetable, it’s treated like a fruit in recipes because it’s often sweetened and paired with other fruits.
This duo is most famous for being in pies, but there’s so much more you can do with it! From jams to crisps, the options are endless. So, what makes it so special? It’s all about balance! The sweetness from strawberries cuts through the tartness of the rhubarb, making the perfect flavor combination.
Common Questions About Strawberry Rhubarb
1. What Does Rhubarb Taste Like?
Rhubarb has a super sour taste—kind of like a lemon! That’s why it’s hardly ever eaten raw and is usually paired with something sweet, like sugar or strawberries. When cooked, it becomes soft and tangy, making it ideal for desserts.
2. Is Rhubarb Safe to Eat?
Yes, rhubarb is safe to eat, but only the stalks. The leaves are poisonous because they contain oxalic acid, which is harmful if eaten. Always throw the leaves away and only use the red or pinkish stalks when cooking.
3. Can I Use Green Rhubarb?
Rhubarb comes in different shades, from green to bright red. While red rhubarb is more common in recipes because of its sweeter flavor, green rhubarb is totally fine to use. The color doesn’t affect its safety, and you can still enjoy its tangy taste.
4. What Can I Make with Strawberry Rhubarb?
Oh, so many things! Here are just a few ideas:
- Strawberry Rhubarb Pie: The classic! Sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb in a buttery crust. Perfect for summer.
- Strawberry Rhubarb Jam: Spread it on toast, pancakes, or mix it into your yogurt.
- Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp: A crunchy, crumbly topping over warm fruit filling. Super easy to make.
- Strawberry Rhubarb Compote: A quick sauce that can be spooned over ice cream, pancakes, or even added to oatmeal.
5. Can You Freeze Rhubarb and Strawberries?
Yes, you can freeze both strawberries and rhubarb, making it easy to enjoy this combo year-round. For rhubarb, chop it up and freeze the pieces on a tray before transferring them to a bag. Strawberries can be frozen whole or sliced.
Fun Facts About Rhubarb
- Rhubarb is actually a vegetable! But because it’s so often used in desserts, many people think it’s a fruit.
- It’s sometimes called the “pie plant” because of how often it’s used in pies.
- Rhubarb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
Why Rhubarb is Good for You
You might not expect it, but rhubarb is actually packed with health benefits! It’s not just tasty; it’s good for you too.
1. High in Fiber
Rhubarb is full of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. A diet rich in fiber is great for your gut and can prevent digestive issues like constipation.
2. Low in Calories
Rhubarb is naturally low in calories, which makes it a great option if you’re looking for something light. You can enjoy it in desserts without feeling guilty about packing on too many calories.
3. Rich in Vitamins
Rhubarb is a good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting. It also contains some vitamin C, which boosts your immune system.
How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Let’s walk through how to make the perfect strawberry rhubarb pie. It’s a must-have for summer gatherings, and once you make it, everyone will be asking you for the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of rhubarb, sliced
- 3 cups of strawberries, halved
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 package of pie dough (or homemade, if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing on the crust)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the rhubarb, strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors come together.
- Prepare the pie crust: Roll out your pie dough and place it into a pie dish, leaving some overhang around the edges.
- Add the filling: Pour the strawberry rhubarb filling into the crust.
- Cover the pie: Lay the second piece of dough on top and crimp the edges together. Use a knife to cut small slits in the top of the pie to let steam escape.
- Brush with egg wash: Lightly brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool: Let the pie cool before slicing and serving.
How to Store Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
After baking, let the pie cool to room temperature. You can store it at room temperature for about 2 days, but if you want to keep it longer, it’s best to refrigerate it. Just wrap it up, and it’ll last up to 4 days in the fridge.
The Perfect Seasonal Combo
Strawberries and rhubarb peak in late spring and early summer, which makes them the perfect combo for warm-weather desserts. Whether you’re picking your own or buying them at the market, fresh strawberries and rhubarb bring out the best flavors when they’re in season.
Don’t worry if you miss the season, though. Both strawberries and rhubarb freeze well, so you can keep enjoying your favorite strawberry rhubarb treats all year long.
Conclusion: The Magic of Strawberry Rhubarb
If you’ve never tried the magic of strawberry rhubarb, now is the time! The perfect mix of sweet and tart is like no other, and it’s easy to incorporate into pies, jams, crisps, and more. Plus, it’s a great way to use seasonal fruits and vegetables in your cooking.
So, grab some rhubarb and strawberries next time you’re at the store (or farmer’s market), and get creative! You’ll quickly find out why this combination is a favorite among dessert lovers everywhere.
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