This Easy Rhubarb Relish Recipe mixes tart rhubarb with sweet sugar and a hint of spice. It’s a simple way to brighten up your meals—perfect on sandwiches or as a side dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rhubarb: This is your star ingredient! Look for vibrant red stalks, as they tend to be sweeter. If you can’t find rhubarb, you could try using cranberries for a tart flavor, though the texture would be different.
Sugar: Adjust based on your sweetness preference. For a healthier option, replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. Just remember that honey may change the flavor slightly.
Apple cider vinegar: This adds a nice tanginess. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor will shift a bit. I personally love the fruity zest from apple cider vinegar!
Onion: Use any onion you have on hand. I like using red onions for a milder flavor and beautiful color. If you want to skip it, the relish will still taste great!
How Can I Make Sure My Relish Thickens Properly?
Getting the right consistency for your rhubarb relish is crucial. Here’s how:
- Cook it at a low heat; simmering allows the flavors to develop while the rhubarb breaks down.
- Keep an eye on it! Stir occasionally to prevent burning, but you want to let it cook long enough to thicken.
- If it’s still too runny after 40 minutes, continue simmering while stirring, watching closely.
Let the relish cool completely, as it tends to thicken more when chilled. This waiting is worth it to enjoy a perfectly spreadable condiment!
Easy Rhubarb Relish Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups rhubarb, finely chopped
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook. After that, let the relish cool and chill in the fridge for a couple of hours (or overnight) to develop its flavors. So, plan on about 2 hours and 15 minutes in total, including chilling time—most of which is hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Rhubarb:
Start by rinsing the rhubarb stalks well under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, chop them finely into small pieces, about half an inch long. The finer the chop, the smoother your relish will be!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add your finely chopped rhubarb. Pour in the sugar and apple cider vinegar, and throw in the chopped onion. These ingredients will create a sweet and tangy mixture that pairs perfectly together. Mix it well!
3. Spice It Up:
Next, sprinkle in the ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Stir everything together until the spices are evenly distributed. These aromatics are going to give your relish an amazing depth of flavor!
4. Cook the Mixture:
Put the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll see it bubbling a little—that’s what you want. Once it’s boiling, turn down the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Give it a stir every now and then to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Monitor the Cooking Time:
Cook the relish for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the rhubarb breaks down and the mixture thickens to a spreadable consistency. It should look glossy and thick, perfect for a tasty spread!
6. Cool and Refrigerate:
Once the cooking is complete, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the rhubarb relish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a clean jar. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. It’s best to let it chill for at least a couple of hours, or even overnight, to allow all the flavors to meld perfectly!
7. Serving Time:
Your rhubarb relish is now ready to enjoy! Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It goes well with crackers, cheese, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions!
Enjoy your tangy, flavorful rhubarb relish!
FAQ for Easy Rhubarb Relish Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Rhubarb for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid before chopping and adding it to your mixture. This will help maintain the right consistency of your relish.
How Long Does This Relish Last in the Fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your rhubarb relish will last for about 2 to 3 weeks. Just give it a good stir before using if it separates a little!
Can I Adjust the Sugar in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet relish, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and taste-test as you go. You can always add more if needed!
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or even lemon juice can work as substitutes. Each will add a different flavor profile, so choose one that you enjoy—or what you have on hand!
