When it comes to cooking with rhubarb, most people think of sweet treats like pies and jams. But this versatile ingredient can also be used to add a tangy, tart flavor to a variety of savory dishes. In fact, rhubarb’s unique taste and texture make it a great addition to everything from hearty stews to elegant entrees.
In this article, we’ll explore 17 delicious savory rhubarb recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From appetizers like Savory Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Tart to main courses like Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Rhubarb Glaze, these dishes showcase the best of what rhubarb has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, you’ll find something on this list that will become a new favorite.
Savory Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the bright flavor of rhubarb, perfect for a springtime brunch or light dinner. With its flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rhubarb
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and olive oil.
4. Arrange rhubarb in a spiral pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Spread goat cheese mixture evenly over the rhubarb.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush edges with a little water and press to seal.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Rhubarb Chutney with Ginger
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect condiment for grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip. The combination of rhubarb, ginger, and warm spices creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, onion, ginger, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rhubarb and Bacon Jam
A tangy twist on traditional jam, this recipe combines the tartness of rhubarb with the smoky richness of bacon. Perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the jam has thickened.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Rhubarb Flatbread
This sweet and savory flatbread combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions and rhubarb, perfectly balanced with a hint of tanginess. A perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Punch down the dough and roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Toss onions with olive oil, salt, and sugar; spread on one half of the dough. Top with rhubarb and drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Rhubarb Glaze
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the harmonious combination of earthy rosemary and sweet-tart rhubarb. This recipe yields a moist, flavorful bird with a sticky, glazy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup rhubarb jam or preserves
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. While the chicken is cooking, mix together rhubarb jam and honey in a small bowl.
7. After the chicken has roasted for 30 minutes, brush it with the rhubarb glaze.
8. Return to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Rhubarb and Prosciutto Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory pork tenderloin, filled with the tangy flavors of rhubarb and crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup fresh rhubarb, diced
– 4 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together rhubarb, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the pork tenderloin flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff the rhubarb mixture inside.
4. Wrap the prosciutto slices around the pork tenderloin, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the prosciutto and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rhubarb-Balsamic Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your grilled vegetable game with the sweet and tangy combination of rhubarb and balsamic glaze. This unique recipe adds a burst of flavor to traditional grilled veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup rhubarb jam
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together rhubarb jam and balsamic vinegar.
3. Brush both sides of the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the vegetables with the rhubarb-balsamic glaze.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso-Glazed Salmon with Rhubarb Compote
This sweet and savory dish combines the rich flavors of miso glaze with the tartness of rhubarb compote, perfectly balancing the delicate flavor of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 cups rhubarb slices (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the miso glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine rhubarb slices, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve glazed salmon with warm rhubarb compote spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Rhubarb and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a unique twist on traditional lentil recipes, featuring the sweet and tangy flavor of rhubarb. Perfect for a chilly evening, this comforting dish is packed with nutrients and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks rhubarb, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water, and rhubarb. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the tanginess of goat cheese and the brightness of rhubarb.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped rhubarb, crumbled goat cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the rhubarb-goat cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Duck with Rhubarb-Cherry Sauce
Elevate your duck dish with a sweet and tangy twist by pairing it with a rhubarb-cherry sauce. This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted duck with the tartness of rhubarb and the sweetness of cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) duck, patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup cherry jam
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the duck with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the duck for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, combine rhubarb, cherry jam, and chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
5. Serve the roasted duck with the warm rhubarb-cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Rhubarb and Caramelized Shallot Pizza
A sweet and savory combination that will elevate your pizza game! This unique pairing of tart rhubarb and rich caramelized shallots is a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, caramelize shallots over medium heat with olive oil until golden brown.
4. Add rhubarb to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Spread caramelized shallot and rhubarb mixture evenly over the pizza dough.
6. Sprinkle with honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Rhubarb BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fire up your taste buds with these sweet and spicy ribs! This unique recipe combines the classic flavors of BBQ with the tangy sweetness of rhubarb, all wrapped up in a spicy package.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup Spicy Rhubarb BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Spicy Rhubarb BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rhubarb jam
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture all over ribs.
3. Place ribs on grill or baking sheet and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. Brush with Spicy Rhubarb BBQ Sauce during last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Rhubarb and Thyme Scones
These sweet and savory scones combine the tartness of rhubarb with the earthy flavor of thyme, perfect for a unique breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup diced fresh rhubarb (about 2 stalks)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add diced rhubarb and chopped thyme; stir to combine.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8-10 wedges.
8. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Rhubarb and Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese
Elevate the classic grilled cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of rhubarb and the smoky richness of smoked gouda. This unique combination is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 1/4 cup rhubarb chutney (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of smoked Gouda cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Spread rhubarb chutney on top of the bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Place a slice of smoked Gouda cheese on top of the chutney.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Rhubarb-Fennel Braised Lamb Shanks
Rhubarb-Fennel Braised Lamb Shanks is a perfect winter dish that combines the tender fall-off-the-bone lamb with the sweetness of rhubarb and the earthiness of fennel. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks fresh rhubarb, diced
– 1 bulb fennel, sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, rhubarb, and fennel; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Rhubarb and Swiss Chard Gratin
This gratin is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender rhubarb and Swiss chard baked in a creamy bechamel sauce. It’s an excellent side dish or a light main course for spring and summer meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh Swiss chard leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the rhubarb and Swiss chard in butter until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to make a bechamel sauce. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
4. Combine cooked rhubarb and Swiss chard with the bechamel sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of rhubarb with these 17 delicious savory recipes. From sweet to tangy, rhubarb pairs perfectly with a variety of ingredients like goat cheese, bacon, and prosciutto. Elevate your meals with dishes like Savory Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Tart, Spiced Rhubarb Chutney with Ginger, and Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Rhubarb Glaze. Explore the many uses of rhubarb in recipes such as Caramelized Onion and Rhubarb Flatbread, Miso-Glazed Salmon with Rhubarb Compote, and Rhubarb-Balsamic Grilled Vegetables. Treat your taste buds to a world of flavors with these creative and mouth-watering savory rhubarb recipes.
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