Summer Rhubarb Compote

IMG_1468 copy

I’m going to be real honest with you for a moment: I did not know that rhubarb came in stalks until a few years ago. I feel plenty of shame for this, so please: judge my ignorance in silence. I don’t think I ever thought about what it actually was shaped like (A berry? A melon? A big amorphous blob of yum?), nor could I actually pin point its distinct flavor. Rarely does rhubarb get a solo performance: it’s usually second fiddle to its frenemy the strawberry. Don’t get me wrong, this magical combination has driven me to many a pie-eating contest (against myself), but it’s time to give rhubarb it’s due.

IMG_1500 copy

I like the simplicity of this compote, with nothing but sugar & vanilla to enhance the sharp-sweetness of the rhubarb, but if you are so inclined try adding some cinnamon. It’s a surprising combo that will put a smile on your face & a tingle in your toes.

IMG_1474 copy

 

IMG_1475 copy

And, of course, don’t forget the ice cream (although eating this by the spoonful is never frowned upon in my house).

Rhubarb Compote
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
Serves: 3 cups
 
Ingredients
  • 4 cups rhubarb, sliced into ½" pieces (slice the stalks in half lengthwise, then chop)
  • 1½ c sugar
  • 1 t vanilla extract
  • juice from ½ lemon
Instructions
  1. Place the rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice into a heavy-bottomed pot over medium high heat.
  2. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 7 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, add vanilla, and cool completely. Serve with love.
 

IMG_1502 copy

2 thoughts on “Summer Rhubarb Compote

  1. Elsie, I love your posts and your writing. You will soon be the next Food Network Star…or the next Erma Bombeck! The Grammar Nazi that I am, however, I can’t help myself…
    “it’s distinct flavor” is incorrect.
    “it’s usually second fiddle” is correct.
    “to it’s frenemy ” is incorrect.
    “It’s a surprising combo” is correct.

    50-50 ain’t bad, but you’re a star. Bobby Flay, Alton Brown and Giada De Laurentiis got nothing on you, babe!

    The word “it” is a weirdo, in that its possessive (as in “its”) has no apostrophe. When the apostrophe is used, it is a contraction for “it is” (as in “it’s”). So, when in doubt, just remember this phrase… “the apostrophe replaces its missing letter” (note no apostrophe in “its”).

    OK, now go back to cooking something fabulous that we can eat when we come visit you in August. 😉

  2. John, I am mortified. I am usually a grammar Nazi myself, but this slipped out. I do not know where my head was, or the head of my trusty “editor” was. We will both be hanging our heads for some time.

    When are you visiting in August? How exciting! Can you text me the details?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Rate this recipe: