23 Amazing Fun Facts About Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a plant that is related to both dock and sorrel. The edible part of the plant is the stalk, which is tart and juicy. Rhubarb season typically runs from early April through to July (UK) or early spring to late summer (USA). Here are some fun facts about rhubarb!

This post will cover everything you need to know about Rhubarb from how to cook and store Rhubarb to when to plant the vegetable.

In this rhubarb fact article you will learn:

1. When is Rhubarb in season?

It depends on where you are in the world.

In the United States, it is typically in season from early spring to late summer. However, in some areas, it may be available year-round. Check with your local grocery store or farmers market to see when it is in season near you.

In the United Kingdom, rhubarb is typically in season from April to July. However, it may be available year-round in some areas. Check with your local grocery store or farmers market to see when it is.

2. How to buy & store Rhubarb

When purchasing rhubarb, look for stalks that are crisp and firm and snap easily. Avoid any that are limp or bruised. The stalks should also be brightly coloured. If they are dull in colour, it is an indication that they are old. Avoid any stems with brown patches.

You can store fresh rhubarb in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Cut the stalks into pieces and place them in a plastic bag before putting them in the fridge.

Rhubarb can also be frozen for longer-term storage. We do this every year, I’m still getting through it! Simply wash the stalks, cut them into pieces (usually about 5cm), and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to a year.

3. What does rhubarb taste like?

Rhubarb is tart and tangy with a slightly sweet taste. It is often used in pies, jams, and other sweet desserts. However, it can also be used in savoury dishes. Rhubarb tastes great with plain yoghurt.

4. How to enjoy Rhubarb

There are many ways to enjoy rhubarb. Here are some ideas:

-Make a pie or crumble using fresh or frozen rhubarb.

-Use it as a topping for yoghurt or ice cream.

-Add it to smoothies or juices.

-Make a jam or jelly with it.

-Throw it into a salad for a pop of colour and flavour.

-Sauté it and serve as a side dish.

-Roast it and use it as a topping for a cake or cheesecake.

-Add it to a savoury sauce or chutney.

5. Are red rhubarb sweeter?

No, red rhubarb is not necessarily sweeter than green rhubarb. The colour of the stalk does not indicate its sweetness. However, the age of the plant can affect its sweetness. Older plants will produce stalks that are less sweet.

6. Is rhubarb poisonous?

No, rhubarb is not poisonous. The stalks are safe to eat but not the leaves.

Rhubarb Leaves

You should not eat rhubarb leaves as they contain oxalic acid. This compound can cause kidney stones and other health problems if consumed in large amounts.

If you want to dispose of them, you can compost them or throw them away.

7. Is rhubarb a fruit or vegetable?

This is a bit of a controversial question as some people consider it to be a fruit and others consider it to be a vegetable. Technically, rhubarb is a vegetable as it is the stem of the plant. However, it is often used as a fruit in pies and other desserts.

8. How long does Rhubarb last?

Fresh: If stored properly, fresh rhubarb will last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Frozen: Frozen rhubarb will last for up to a year.

Dried: Dried rhubarb will last for several months.

9. How to dry Rhubarb

Rhubarb can be dried in a dehydrator or oven.

Dehydrator: Cut the stalks into pieces and place them on the dehydrator racks. dehydrate at 115 degrees F until dry (this takes about 6-8 hours). Store in an airtight container.

Oven: Set the oven to the lowest temperature setting (mine is 170 degrees F) and prop the door open with a wooden spoon. Place the rhubarb on a baking sheet and dry for 6-8 hours, or until dry. Store in an airtight container.

10. Can dogs eat Rhubarb?

No, dogs should not eat rhubarb. The leaves of the plant contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic to dogs. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If you think your dog has eaten rhubarb, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

11. Is Rhubarb good for you?

Yes, rhubarb is good for you! It is a good source of fibre, vitamins C and K, and calcium. It also contains compounds that may have health benefits such as reducing inflammation and protecting against cancer.

12. Can you eat raw Rhubarb?

Yes, you can eat raw rhubarb. It is tart and tangy with a slightly sweet taste. However, some people prefer to cook it as it can be quite tough. If you do choose to eat it raw, make sure to wash the stalks thoroughly first. You can also peel them if you find the skin to be too tough.

13. How to cook Rhubarb

Rhubarb can be cooked in many different ways. Some popular methods include:

-Baking/Roasting: Cut the rhubarb into pieces and place it in a baking dish. Add some sugar or honey and bake in a preheated oven until soft (about 15-20 minutes).

-Boiling: Place the rhubarb in a pot with water and sugar. Bring to a boil and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).

-Stewing: Cut the rhubarb into pieces and place it in a pot with water and sugar. Cook over low heat until soft (about 10 minutes).

14. How to cook rhubarb in a microwave

Place the rhubarb in a microwave-safe dish and add water and sugar. Cook on high for 2-3 minutes, or until soft. Let it cool before serving.

15. How to cook rhubarb for baby

Stewed rhubarb is a popular way to give babies and young children this fruit as it is soft and easy to eat. To make it, simply cut the rhubarb into pieces and stew it in a pot with water and a little sugar until soft. Let it cool before serving. You can also puree cooked rhubarb and add it to other foods such as yoghurt or oatmeal.

16. How many calories are in Rhubarb?

There are only 42 calories in a cup of cooked rhubarb.

17. Is Rhubarb Keto?

Yes, rhubarb is keto-friendly as it is low in carbs and calories. One cup of cooked rhubarb contains only 6 grams of carbs.

18. Recipes containing Rhubarb:

-Rhubarb Pie

–Rhubarb Curd

-Rhubarb Crisp

-Rhubarb Cake

-Rhubarb Jam

-Rhubarb Compote

–Rhubarb and Apple Crumble

–Rhubarb and Elderflower Traybake

19. What is forced Rhubarb?

Forced rhubarb is a type of rhubarb that is grown in the dark. This causes it to be sweeter and more tender than regular rhubarb. It is often used in desserts and baking. The warm, dark conditions encourage rapid growth, producing pink, tender shoots with yellow leaves.

Outdoor Rhubarb

This is much coarser with green-red stalks, with dark green leaves grown naturally.

20. Is Rhubarb gluten-free?

Yes, rhubarb is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the label if you are buying packaged goods as some products may contain traces of gluten.

21. When to stop picking Rhubarb

You can stop picking rhubarb when the stalks start to get thinner and less fleshy. This usually happens towards the end of the season.

22. When is the best time to plant Rhubarb?

The best time to plant rhubarb is in the Autumn or early spring.

Related Questions

23. What are rhubarb crowns?

Rhubarb crowns are the roots of the plant. They are often sold by nurseries and garden centres. You can also get them by dividing an existing rhubarb plant.

Conclusion

Do you have any more Rhubarb facts? I’d love to know. Pop your comments below. If you’re looking for a great Rhubarb recipe you have to try Rhubarb and Elderflower Traybake. Really easy to do, no pre-cooking the Rhubarb and it is a really tasty dessert!