There are two types of people in the world: those who love rhubarb and those who have never tried it. For some reason, some people are afraid of rhubarb, but it doesn't make any sense to me. Rhubarb isn't scary. I've never once watched a horror movie where rhubarb is the villain.
If you've never tried cooking or baking with rhubarb, this is a simple recipe to start with. Think of it as Rhubarb 101 or maybe your first date with Rhubarb. I think you'll find that if you accept the invitation, Rhubarb will pleasantly surprise you, showing up with flowers and a cool vintage car, taking you places you've never dreamed.
Make this simple sauce and serve it over yogurt, vanilla ice cream, scones, or anywhere else you desire. Go on, try it!
Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
1/3 cup water
1 pound rhubarb stalks, cleaned and diced
1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix sugar and water. Add rhubarb to the saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes, or until tender. Add strawberries, orange zest, and lemon juice and simmer an additional 10 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and cool. Use a blender to puree the mixture. Serve over vanilla ice cream, fresh yogurt, or with scones.
