If you love the tangy bite of rhubarb, this rhubarb lemonade will be your new favorite warm-weather drink. It’s zippy, refreshing, and just unusual enough to impress your garden-party guests.
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 5 cups water, divided
– 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– Ice cubes
– Rhubarb ribbons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1
Combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rhubarb breaks down and the mixture becomes syrupy.
Step 3
Strain the rhubarb syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
Step 4
Add the remaining 3 cups of water and lemon juice to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
Step 5
Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and pour the rhubarb lemonade over. Garnish with rhubarb ribbons if desired.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add a few sprigs of fresh mint to the pitcher for an herbal twist.
2. Substitute part of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy version.
3. Use honey instead of sugar for a different flavor profile and natural sweetness.
4. Mix in some fresh strawberries during simmering for added fruitiness.
5. Adjust sugar levels according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This rhubarb lemonade pairs beautifully with light snacks such as cucumber sandwiches or goat cheese crostini. For a more substantial pairing, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish dishes that have citrus elements to complement the drink’s tartness.
Substitutions
1. Use frozen rhubarb if fresh is unavailable—just thaw before using.
2. Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
3. Substitute cane sugar with agave syrup or maple syrup for sweetness.
Recipe Variations
1. Add sliced ginger during simmering for a spicy kick to your lemonade.
2. Blend in some raspberries or blackberries for a berry-infused version.
3. Infuse with basil leaves instead of mint for an aromatic twist.
4. Create a cocktail by adding vodka or gin to individual glasses before serving.
Enjoy crafting this delightful drink, and remember that experimenting with flavors is part of the fun!
