#rhubarb

I finally found some rhubarb! I love rhubarb not just because it’s so delicious but because it also reminds me of my Mom, who made it all the time (when she couldn’t get it fresh, she bought frozen rhubarb but I don’t think anyone packages frozen rhubarb these days). She cooked rhubarb as a side dish — sort of like applesauce, but better. It goes with everything. Meat. Veggies. Also, she didn’t add a ton of sugar. We all loved the tart goodness. Here’s how she made it — we prefer it plain, with no additions, but notice I’ve added some tasty options in case you like your rhubarb more well seasoned.

follow me on Instagram @ronnievfein

Stewed Rhubarb

1-1/2 pounds rhubarb 2/3 to 3/4 cup sugar, up to you 1-2 teaspoons grated fresh orange or lemon zest, optional 1-2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger, optional 3-4 tablespoons fresh orange juice, optional 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, optional

A refreshing and subtly sweet spritz with the delicate flavors of Lillet Blanc and rhubarb syrup, finished with a hint of citrus.

Ingredients: 2 oz Lillet Blanc. 1 oz rhubarb syrup. Club soda. Orange twist, for garnish.

Instructions: Put ice cubes in a glass. Put in the rhubarb syrup and Lillet Blanc. Add club soda on top and stir it in slowly. An orange twist is a nice touch.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

The tartness nearly killed me, or maybe it was just my hubris. I have never been more humbled than I am now, cowering in fear as I open the fridge for a slice of pie whilst brandishing a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a measly, melty talisman of protection against the tartness.

My father claims it’s the best pie I’ve ever made. He knew of the rhubarb’s true power this whole time and neglected to warn me. He has succumbed to that power himself and praises the tartness as it overtakes my beautiful strawberries. Bakers beware, for even your own flesh and blood may betray you in the name of rhubarb.

I fear for my life. I chopped up more rhubarb than I needed and put it in the freezer, but now I worry that the mangled pieces will someday seek revenge for their rejection.