Introduction to Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb. Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce is one of those delightful recipes that can transform your average dessert into something exceptional. I find that it’s perfect for busy days, when you need a quick solution for breakfast or dessert. It’s an easy sauce that impresses everyone, from picky eaters to culinary adventurers. Plus, it adds a pop of color and flavor wherever it goes. Trust me, once you make this sauce, you’ll be searching for excuses to use it!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
This Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also incredibly simple to whip up. Within just 22 minutes, you can have a vibrant, flavorful sauce that brightens up everything from pancakes to ice cream. Its tangy-sweet profile caters to all ages, making it a hit at family gatherings. Plus, it’s a delightful way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
Creating the perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star! Look for bright red, ripe ones for the best flavor. You can also use frozen if needed—just don’t thaw them first.
- Rhubarb: This tangy vegetable adds a delightful bite. Choose firm stalks that are bright in color. Avoid any that look wilted or brown.
- Salted Butter: The butter enriches the sauce with a bit of creaminess. You can swap it for coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of this extract brings warmth and depth to the sauce. Feel free to use vanilla bean paste if you want that extra special touch.
- Lemon Zest: The zest adds a hint of brightness. If you don’t have zest, you can substitute with a little extra lemon juice.
- Lemon Juice: This helps balance the sweetness, ensuring a perfect flavor combination. Freshly squeezed is always better—trust me!
- Granulated Sugar: You’ll want just the right amount to sweeten things up without overpowering the fruit. Adjust to taste based on the ripeness of your strawberries.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar adds richness and a hint of caramel flavor. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup if preferred.
- Corn Starch: This thickens the sauce for the perfect consistency. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just use arrowroot powder instead.
- Extra Strawberries: Diced for that lovely texture at the end. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it for added lushness!
For all exact quantities, check out the bottom of the article where you can find everything neatly laid out for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
Creating your own Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce is a satisfying kitchen adventure! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a sweet-tart masterpiece ready in no time.
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. The key here is not to rush. Let the butter melt completely so it creates a nice base for the sauce.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Once the butter has melted, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show! Toss in your strawberries, rhubarb, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and corn starch. Stir everything together well to make sure all those flavors are mingling nicely.
Step 3: Cook and Cover
Cover the saucepan and let it cook on medium-low heat for 12 minutes. Don’t be tempted to peek; the steam helps the fruits become tender and release their juices. This is the magic moment that blends all those delicious flavors!
Step 4: Add Extra Strawberries
After 12 minutes, if you’re using them, stir in the extra diced strawberries. They’ll add an extra layer of texture and freshness to your sauce! It’s like a little surprise with every spoonful.
Step 5: Thicken as Needed
If the sauce looks a bit too runny for your taste, don’t worry! Just create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of corn starch with 1 teaspoon of water. Add this to the saucepan, heat everything, and cook for another 1 to 4 minutes. You’ll see the sauce thicken into a luscious consistency!
Step 6: Chill for Hand Pies (optional)
If you plan to use the sauce in hand pies, let it chill in the fridge overnight. This will help firm it up and make it easier to handle. Plus, those flavors deepen with time, making it even tastier!
Step 7: Serving Suggestions
Now for the fun part! Drizzle this delightful sauce over ice cream, spread it on toast, or stir it into yogurt for a breakfast treat. It’s incredibly versatile and adds a delightful pop wherever it goes. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Use ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t skip the chilling step if using in hand pies; it’s essential!
- Adjust sugar levels based on fruit sweetness—you know your taste best!
- Try a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
- Store leftover sauce in a mason jar for easy access and freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Large Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the sauce. A deep skillet can work too.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring things up. Use any sturdy spoon in a pinch.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy. You can use standard kitchen cups alternatively.
- Chopping Board and Knife: For preparing your fruit. A good peeler works for rhubarb too.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some minced fresh ginger for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Herb-Infused: Try stirring in fresh mint or basil for a refreshing twist. These herbs complement the fruity base and add an unexpected flavor depth.
- Citrus Burst: Experiment with orange zest or grapefruit juice instead of lemon for a vibrant citrus profile.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace granulated sugar with a suitable sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting to taste.
- Different Fruits: Incorporate other fruits such as blueberries or blackberries for a mixed berry sauce experience! Just keep an eye on sugar levels based on their sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
- Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a summer delight.
- Spread on toasted rustic bread or scones for breakfast.
- Stir into yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthy snack.
- Top pancakes or waffles for a brunch treat.
- Serve alongside grilled meats for a tangy contrast.
FAQs about Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
Can I use frozen rhubarb and strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember not to thaw them before cooking. Frozen fruit is a great option that can save time while still providing delicious results in your Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce.
How do I store the sauce?
Store your Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy it for days!
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Making the sauce ahead of time saves precious minutes during busy days. Just chill it in the fridge, and you’ll have it ready to go whenever you need a sweet touch to your meals.
What can I substitute for sugar?
If you prefer to cut down on sugar, you can use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead. Just adjust the quantity to taste. This way, you keep the sweet-tart balance without extra calories!
How can I make this sauce thicker?
If your sauce turns out too runny, simply create a cornstarch slurry by mixing it with water and heating the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency. It’s an easy fix!
Final Thoughts
Making Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy in your kitchen. The vibrant colors and delightful aromas fill your home, welcoming everyone to the table. Each spoonful is a burst of tangy sweetness that brings back fond memories of summer days. I love how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels like a special treat. Whether you’re dressing up desserts or adding flair to breakfast, this sauce is a game changer. Try it out, and watch it turn ordinary meals into extraordinary ones! Enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8
- Category: Dessert Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful and tangy Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce that pairs perfectly with desserts or breakfast items.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces strawberries, quartered (227 grams or 1 and 2/3 cups)
- 6 ounces rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces (170 grams or 1 and 1/2 cups)
- 1 tbsp salted butter (14 grams)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar (83 grams)
- 1 and 1/2 tbsp brown sugar, packed (21 grams)
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 5 extra strawberries, diced (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the pan except the 5 extra strawberries and stir everything together well.
- Cover and let cook over medium low heat for 12 minutes without stirring.
- After 12 minutes, stir in the extra diced strawberries, if using.
- If the sauce seems too runny, return it to heat. Once hot, add a slurry made from 1 tsp corn starch dissolved in 1 tsp water and cook for 1-4 minutes more to thicken.
- If using in hand pies, let sauce chill in the fridge overnight first.
- Enjoy the sauce over ice cream, spread on toast, use in hand pies, or stir into yogurt. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
- If using frozen fruit, do not thaw before cooking.
- Storing in a mason jar works well for refrigeration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
