Drinks

Rhubarb Cordial Recipe

There’s something genuinely magical about crafting your beverages at home, and rhubarb cordial is no exception. If you’re like me, seeing those vibrant pink stalks at the farmer’s market or in your garden brings a sense of excitement and inspiration. Rhubarb, with its unique tartness and vibrant color, transforms into a delightful and refreshing cordial that can elevate any gathering or add a touch of elegance to your everyday drinks.

What Is Rhubarb Cordial?

Rhubarb cordial is a concentrated syrup made from rhubarb, sugar, and often other flavorings like ginger, lemon, or vanilla. It’s a popular ingredient in many recipes, especially those that call for a tart and sweet flavor profile.

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg rhubarb, washed and chopped
  • 1 kg granulated sugar
  • 1 liter water
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (optional)
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the rhubarb: If you prefer a smoother cordial. Cut the rhubarb into small pieces. You can blend the rhubarb before cooking
  2. Combine ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, water, lemon zest, lemon juice (if using), and vanilla bean (if using).
  3. Simmer and cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium-high heat, then reduce to a low heat and cook for 30-45 minutes, or until the rhubarb is entirely broken down and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
  4. Strain: Cool the mixture slightly before straining it into a clean glass jar through a fine-mesh sieve.
  5. Press on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.  
  6. Bottle and store: Once cooled completely, tightly seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator.

Tips:

  • Rhubarb variety: The sweetness and tartness of rhubarb can vary, so you may need to adjust the sugar amount to your taste.  
  • Flavor enhancements: Experiment with different flavorings like ginger, orange, or other fruits to create unique cordial variations.
  • Sterilization: For a longer shelf life, sterilize the jar and lid before filling with the cordial.
  • Using the cordial: Rhubarb cordial can be diluted with water for a refreshing drink, used as a base for cocktails, or added to desserts, sauces, and yogurts.

What To Serve With

Sparkling Water or Club Soda: One of the easiest and most refreshing ways to enjoy rhubarb cordial is to mix it with sparkling water or club soda. This combination makes for a delightful, fizzy drink that’s perfect for any time of day. Pour a few tablespoons into a glass, top it with sparkling water, and add ice. For added refinement, garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.

Cocktails

  • Rhubarb Gin Fizz: For a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail, mix rhubarb cordial with gin, lemon juice, and soda water .
  • Rhubarb Margarita: Combine it with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec for a vibrant, tart margarita.
  • Rhubarb Spritz: Mix with prosecco and a splash of soda water for a light, bubbly aperitif.

Desserts

  • Ice Cream or Sorbet: Drizzle rhubarb cordial over lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a delicious tart topping.
  • Panna Cotta: Serve alongside panna cotta for a beautiful and flavorful contrast.
  • Fruit Salad: Toss a bit of rhubarb cordial with fresh fruit salad to add an extra layer of flavor.

Breakfast And Brunch

  • Yogurt and Granola: Drizzle rhubarb cordial over yogurt and granola for a sweet and tangy start to your day.
  • Pancakes or Waffles: Use as a syrup alternative for pancakes or waffles. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and whipped cream.
  • Mimosas: Add a splash of rhubarb cordial to your morning mimosa for a unique twist.

Cheese Pairings

  • Goat Cheese: The rhubarb cordial tartness complements goat cheese’s creamy, tangy flavor.
  • Brie: Spread a bit of rhubarb cordial on a slice of brie for a delightful combination of flavors.
  • Cheddar: The sharpness of aged cheddar pairs nicely with the sweet-tart notes of rhubarb cordial.

Health Benefits

Rhubarb’s Nutritional Powerhouse

  • Rich in antioxidants: Rhubarb contains anthocyanins and proanthocyanins, which aids protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Fiber content: Rhubarb is a good source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Vitamins and minerals: It provides vital nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium, which contribute to bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Potential Health Benefits Linked To Rhubarb

  • Improved bone health: Vitamin K, abundant in rhubarb, is vital for good bone health and blood clotting.
  • Heart health support: The fiber content in rhubarb can aid in lowering cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Digestive health: Rhubarb’s fiber content aids digestion and prevents constipation.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Some scholars believe that compounds in rhubarb have anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Potential cancer-fighting properties: Rhubarb’s antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of specific types of cancer.

Final Thoughts

Crafting your rhubarb cordial at home is a delightful and rewarding experience that brings out the best of this unique, vibrant ingredient. From the moment you start simmering those bright pink stalks, your kitchen fills with the tantalizing aroma of sweet and tart mingling together a sensory preview of the delicious cordial.

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