Rhubarb Slush is a refreshing summertime beverage that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberry and citrus flavors. This drink is perfect for hot days and can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. It’s a delightful way to use up fresh rhubarb and impress your guests with a unique and flavorful treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

6 cups chopped rhubarb
6 cups water
2 1/4 cups sugar
1 small package strawberry-flavored gelatin
1/3 cup lemon juice
12 oz frozen pink lemonade concentrate
Lemon-lime soda or alcohol (optional, for serving)

Directions

In a large saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rhubarb is tender.
Strain the rhubarb mixture through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
While the liquid is still hot, stir in the sugar and strawberry gelatin until fully dissolved.
Add the lemon juice and pink lemonade concentrate, mixing well.
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid, preferably overnight.
To serve, scrape the frozen mixture into a glass and top with lemon-lime soda or a splash of alcohol, stirring gently to combine.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10mg
Potassium: 100mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 35g
Vitamin A: 0% DV
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 2% DV

What is Rhubarb Slush?

Rhubarb Slush is a frozen drink made from rhubarb, a perennial vegetable that is often mistaken for a fruit. It’s known for its tart, tangy flavor, which is the perfect contrast to the sweetness of other ingredients like strawberry-flavored gelatin and lemonade concentrate. The rhubarb is first boiled and sweetened, then mixed with other ingredients and frozen into a slushy texture. Once frozen, it can be served as a refreshing drink that’s both icy and flavorful. This simple yet delicious concoction is perfect for hot summer days, offering a cool treat that’s light, refreshing, and a little bit different from your standard lemonade or iced tea.

A Brief History of Rhubarb

Before diving into the specifics of Rhubarb Slush, it’s interesting to know a little about the star ingredient – rhubarb. Rhubarb has been cultivated for thousands of years and has a rich history that spans across cultures. Native to Asia, rhubarb was originally used for its medicinal properties, including its ability to help with digestion and other ailments. It wasn’t until the 18th century that rhubarb started being used for culinary purposes in the Western world, thanks to its tart flavor and ability to pair well with sweeteners like sugar.

Despite being classified as a vegetable, rhubarb is most commonly treated like a fruit in cooking. It’s used in a variety of desserts, jams, and sauces, and its distinct tartness provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of many dishes. While the leaves of the rhubarb plant are toxic and should never be eaten, the stalks are perfectly safe to consume and are the main part of the plant used in recipes.

Why Choose Rhubarb Slush?

The Rhubarb Slush is more than just another summer drink. It’s an experience. Here are some reasons why this frozen drink has gained popularity as a go-to refreshment during the warmer months:

A Refreshing Twist on Classic Slushes: While traditional slush drinks are often made with sugary fruit juices, Rhubarb Slush stands out by offering a tart, flavorful base that is unlike anything most people have tried. The tanginess of rhubarb, paired with the sweetness of the lemonade concentrate and strawberry gelatin, creates a balanced and refreshing flavor profile that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
A Unique Way to Use Fresh Rhubarb: For those lucky enough to have access to fresh rhubarb during the growing season, this slush provides an excellent way to use the vegetable. Instead of sticking to traditional rhubarb pie or jam, you can create a fun and refreshing beverage that showcases the flavor of rhubarb in a new and exciting way.
Easy to Make and Serve: One of the key benefits of Rhubarb Slush is its simplicity. The drink is easy to make and requires minimal effort. You don’t need any special equipment beyond a pot for boiling the rhubarb and a freezer-safe container for freezing the mixture. The process of creating the slush involves just boiling the rhubarb with water, adding sweeteners and other flavorings, then freezing it. No complicated techniques or long preparation times are involved, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts and home cooks alike.
Customizable for Different Tastes: Rhubarb Slush is incredibly versatile. The basic recipe can be modified to suit your preferences, whether you want to add more sweetness, enhance the tartness of the rhubarb, or experiment with different types of fruit juice. For those who want to make it a little more indulgent, you can even add a splash of alcohol, turning it into a fun, adult-friendly slush. Options for serving are plentiful, and the slush can easily be made to match your guests’ tastes.
Perfect for a Crowd: The recipe makes a generous amount of slush, so it’s great for parties, barbecues, or large gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a Fourth of July celebration, Rhubarb Slush can easily be made in advance and served in large pitchers or bowls. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially for guests who may not have tasted rhubarb before.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is more than just a tasty ingredient – it’s also packed with health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why incorporating rhubarb into your diet (and in your Rhubarb Slush) can be beneficial:

High in Antioxidants: Rhubarb is a great source of antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, protect the skin from aging, and support the body’s overall health.
Rich in Vitamin C: Rhubarb contains a good amount of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune health. Vitamin C helps protect against illness, promotes skin health, and supports the body’s ability to heal. In fact, just one serving of Rhubarb Slush can provide a healthy dose of this essential nutrient.
Good Source of Fiber: Rhubarb is high in dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support gut health. Adding rhubarb to your diet, whether in a slush or other dishes, can be a great way to boost your fiber intake.
Low in Calories: Despite its sweet taste, rhubarb is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful drink without the guilt. Rhubarb Slush, with its combination of rhubarb and other ingredients, remains a refreshing, low-calorie option compared to many other sugary beverages.
Natural Diuretic: Rhubarb has natural diuretic properties, meaning it can help increase urine production and promote the elimination of excess water and salt from the body. This can be beneficial for those looking to reduce bloating or improve kidney function.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Rhubarb Slush is incredibly versatile, and there are several ways you can customize it to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Add a Splash of Alcohol: For an adult version of Rhubarb Slush, consider adding a splash of alcohol. Vodka, rum, or even a little white wine can elevate the drink and make it perfect for summer parties. Simply pour a small amount over the slush before serving and stir to combine.
Make it a Mocktail: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply stick to the original recipe. However, you can add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a little fizz. This will give the drink a refreshing effervescence without the need for alcohol.
Serve with Fruit Garnishes: Garnish your Rhubarb Slush with fresh fruit slices for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. Lemon slices, strawberries, or even raspberries make for a great complement to the drink’s tangy profile.
Turn it into a Popsicle: If you want to enjoy Rhubarb Slush in a different form, freeze it into popsicle molds instead of just freezing the drink. This makes for a fun, portable treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Experiment with Other Fruits: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other fruits to your Rhubarb Slush to enhance the flavor. Strawberries, raspberries, or even orange juice can be mixed into the base for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Slush is a delicious, refreshing drink that captures the essence of summer. It combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of lemonade and gelatin, creating a perfectly balanced beverage that’s both cooling and flavorful. Easy to make, customizable, and packed with health benefits, this frozen drink is ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or just enjoying a cool treat on a hot day. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, Rhubarb Slush is sure to become a staple in your summer recipe collection.

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