Rhubarb: Is It a Fruit or a Vegetable?
Rhubarb is known for its thick, flavorful stalks and is enjoyed in various ways. Although rhubarb is technically considered a vegetable, it is more often treated as a fruit due to its tart flavor and heavy use in desserts. While the stalks are perfectly fine for consumption, don’t be tempted to eat the leaves, as they can result in illness if consumed in large quantities. Rhubarb is native to parts of Asia, including China, Siberia, and Mongolia. In the United States, the vegetable is typically grown in Washington, Oregon, and Michigan, where it thrives in cooler temperatures. It is usually planted in early spring with peak harvest in late spring, however, it can still be grown throughout summer in cooler climates. Rhubarb’s tangy flavor makes it perfect for using in sauces, jams, and baked goods. One of the best ways for rhubarb to be enjoyed is through a classic rhubarb dessert, so…
Let’s Make a Rhubarb Pie! – Makes 8 Servings
Ingredients
4 cups of fresh or frozen rhubarb, chopped (if frozen, thaw)
1 double pie crust (prepared or homemade)
1 tbsp butter
6 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ⅓ cup of granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Prepare the filling: Combine rhubarb, flour, sugar, and salt into a large bowl. Mix together until the rhubarb is evenly coated
Place one of the pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing the dough into the bottom. Brush with egg wash if desired. Coat the bottom of the crust with ¼ of the sugar. Pour in the rhubarb mixture, then place small dots of butter on top.
Cover the pie with the second crust. Seal the crust by crimping the edges and cut some small slits on the top. If you want a fancier presentation, use a lattice crust. Sprinkle sugar on top if desired.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. It may be helpful to check the pie after 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Let the pie cool for roughly 2–4 hours before serving. Enjoy warm or cold!