If you haven’t cooked rhubarb before, you probably have a lot of questions about it.
What is rhubarb? How to use rhubarb? What does rhubarb taste like? How to freeze rhubarb? How to defrost frozen rhubarb? And so on…
Well, Rhubarb is a spring vegetable and looks a lot like celery. The interesting thing about rhubarb is that while it stems from the family of perennial vegetables, most people consider it to be a fruit.
It has a rather unique flavor profile with a sharp, sour flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Despite its tart flavors, it pairs up perfectly with sweet fruits and is often used in preparing sweet dishes, especially crumbles, pies, and cakes.
You can also use it to prepare yummy jams, sauces, and even smoothies!
The only remaining question is whether it is possible to freeze this delicious veggie? Let’s find out!
Can You Freeze Rhubarb?
Yes, rhubarb freezes well. This is good news for rhubarb lovers as fresh rhubarb is available in the market only in spring and summer.
So, if you enjoy making rhubarb dishes, our advice is to stock up when it’s in the season to enjoy your favorite vegetable all year round!
How to Freeze Rhubarb?
There are two main methods of freezing rhubarb. You can blanch rhubarb before freezing or freeze it raw. Frozen rhubarb can last for up to a year.
However, it is best to use earlier to enjoy the best texture and flavor. Scroll down to take a look at how to freeze rhubarb the right way.
How to Freeze Rhubarb Raw
Choose firm and crisp stalks if you plan on freezing raw rhubarb. Keep in mind that while it is possible to freeze entire stalks, it is best to chop them first.
- Trim to get rid of stringy bits and cut the stems into smaller pieces. If the stems are thick, you can also chop them sideways to get even pieces.
- Spread the pieces of rhubarb on a lined tray. Make sure that you spread the pieces in a single layer.
- Place the tray in the freezer to freeze rhubarb.
- Once frozen, shift the pieces to heavy-duty plastic bags or an airtight container.
- Store at the back of the freezer and use within three months of freezing to enjoy the best flavor.
How to Freeze Blanched Rhubarb
Blanching rhubarb before freezing it can increase the life of frozen rhubarb.
- Remove leaves and stringy bits and blanch rhubarb in boiling water of 60 seconds.
- Scoop blanched rhubarb directly into cold water to cool it quickly.
- Drain excess water and spread out the pieces on a clean tea towel.
- Spread the pieces on a lined tray and place the tray in the freezer.
- Once frozen, shift the pieces to heavy-duty plastic bags or an airtight container.
- Use within six months of freezing for the best flavor!
Tips on Defrosting Rhubarb
Now that you know how to freeze rhubarb, let’s move on to discuss how to defrost it. Defrosting rhubarb is easy – simply leave out the frozen rhubarb on the counter for several hours. You can also defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.
How long it takes to defrost rhubarb depends on the size of the pieces and the size of the portion you are defrosting. Here are a few tips on defrosting rhubarb.
- Avoid moving rhubarb as it defrosts. Moving it too much will distort the shape of the pieces.
- Keep in mind that rhubarb tends to shrink when defrosted. So, make sure you thaw enough frozen rhubarb.
- If you are running short on time, you can use frozen rhubarb in baking recipes without thawing it first.
Can Cooked Rhubarb Be Frozen?
Yes! You can freeze cooked rhubarb just like raw or blanched rhubarb. Stewed rhubarb and roasted rhubarb freezes exceptionally well.
It is advisable to freeze cooked rhubarb in portions. Doing so will make it easier for you to use it later!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips on how to freeze rhubarb like a pro!
- Regardless of how you choose to freeze rhubarb, wash it thoroughly before freezing.
- Discard all leaves or greenery as it is toxic and may lead to an upset stomach.
- If you want to preserve the fresh color of your rhubarb, make sure you blanch it before freezing.
The Bottom Line
Don’t be intimated by this sour and tart veggie. Use it to make your favorite sauces, baking goods, and morning smoothies. Now that you know how to freeze rhubarb, you can enjoy cooking with it all round the year!
How to Freeze Rhubarb
This is how to freeze a Rhubarb so that you can enjoy cooking with it all round the year.
Ingredients
- Water
- Blanched rhubarb
- Clean tea towel
- Lined tray
- Freezer
- Heavy-duty plastic bags or airtight container
Instructions
- Remove leaves and stringy bits and blanch rhubarb in boiling water for 60 seconds.
- Scoop blanched rhubarb directly into cold water to cool it quickly.
- Drain excess water and spread out the pieces on a clean tea towel.
- Spread the pieces on a lined tray and place the tray in the freezer.
- Once frozen, shift the pieces to heavy-duty plastic bags or an airtight container.
- Use within six months of freezing for the best flavor!
Notes
- Regardless of how you choose to freeze rhubarb, wash it thoroughly before freezing.
- Discard all leaves or greenery as it is toxic and may lead to an upset stomach.
- If you want to preserve the fresh color of your rhubarb, make sure you blanch it before freezing.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 0Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g