Rhubarb Cordial: A Taste of Spring in Every Sip

The tang of rhubarb always brings me back to my grandmother’s garden, a riot of green stalks topped with crinkled leaves. As a child, I wasn’t fond of cooked rhubarb – its sourness felt like a challenge. But my grandmother, with her endless wisdom, knew how to tame that tartness. She’d transform the vibrant stalks into a ruby-red cordial, a sweet and tangy elixir that was pure magic on a warm summer day. The taste still evokes memories of sun-drenched afternoons, buzzing bees, and the comforting presence of family.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yields: Approximately 4 quarts of cordial
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 5 lbs rhubarb, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons grated lemon rind
• 3 quarts water
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1-2 cups sugar (adjust to taste)

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve
• Bottles or jars for storage

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the rhubarb. Thoroughly wash the 5 lbs of rhubarb stalks and cut them into 1-inch chunks. There’s no need to peel them.

2. In a large saucepan, combine the cut rhubarb, 2 tablespoons of grated lemon rind, and 3 quarts of water. The lemon rind adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the rhubarb’s tartness.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is very tender and falling apart. The rhubarb should easily break down when pressed with a spoon.

4. Stir in the 1/3 cup of lemon juice. The lemon juice adds an extra layer of acidity and helps to balance the sweetness of the sugar.

5. Now it’s time to strain the mixture. Line a large bowl with several layers of cheesecloth or use a fine-mesh sieve. Carefully pour the rhubarb mixture into the cheesecloth or sieve, allowing the liquid to drain through. Let it drain undisturbed for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, to extract as much juice as possible. Avoid pressing on the solids, as this can make the cordial cloudy.

6. Once the juice is strained, measure the amount of liquid you have. This will help you determine how much sugar to add.

7. In a clean saucepan, combine the strained rhubarb juice with 1 to 2 cups of sugar, depending on your preference and the tartness of the rhubarb. Start with 1 cup and add more to taste. Remember that Canada Red Rhubarb is naturally sweeter, so you might need less sugar.

8. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes. This helps to slightly thicken the cordial and ensure the sugar is fully incorporated.

9. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cordial cool slightly.

10. While the cordial is still warm, pour it into sterilized bottles or jars. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each container.

11. Seal the bottles or jars tightly. If you are using canning jars, you can process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a longer shelf life. This step is optional, but it’s recommended if you plan to store the cordial for more than a few weeks.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a deeper flavor, try roasting the rhubarb before simmering it. Toss the rhubarb chunks with a little sugar and roast them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until softened.
• Don’t discard the leftover rhubarb pulp! It can be used to make rhubarb jam, chutney, or even added to smoothies for a boost of fiber and flavor.
• If you want a clearer cordial, use a jelly bag instead of cheesecloth to strain the juice.
• To prevent the cordial from becoming cloudy, avoid stirring the mixture vigorously while it’s simmering.
• Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Start with less and add more as needed, tasting as you go.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Rhubarb cordial is incredibly versatile. Dilute it with sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing summer drink. It’s also delicious mixed with gin, vodka, or prosecco for a sophisticated cocktail. You can even drizzle it over ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes.

Store the cordial in a cool, dark place. Unopened, it will keep for several months. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks. If you have processed the jars in a boiling water bath, the unopened cordial can last for up to a year.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 oz concentrate)	% Daily Value*
Calories	60 kcal	3%
Total Fat	0g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	15g
Protein	0g	0%

*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a spicier cordial, add a few slices of fresh ginger or a pinch of ground cardamom to the saucepan while simmering the rhubarb.
• Instead of lemon rind, try using orange or grapefruit rind for a different citrusy flavor.
• If you don’t have fresh rhubarb, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just thaw it before using it in the recipe.
• For a non-alcoholic twist, try adding a splash of elderflower cordial or rose water to the rhubarb cordial.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A: Yes, you can use granulated sugar, caster sugar, or even honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that using a different sweetener will affect the flavor of the cordial.

Q: How long will the cordial last?
A: Unopened, properly canned cordial can last up to a year. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use within a few weeks.

Q: My cordial is cloudy. What did I do wrong?
A: Cloudiness can be caused by pressing on the rhubarb pulp while straining the juice. Next time, let the juice drain naturally.

Q: Can I use this cordial to make jam?
A: Absolutely! Rhubarb cordial adds a unique flavor to homemade jam. Just reduce the amount of sugar in your jam recipe accordingly.

Q: What’s the best way to sterilize the bottles or jars?
A: Wash the bottles or jars in hot, soapy water, then rinse them thoroughly. Place them in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove them carefully and let them air dry on a clean towel.

Final Thoughts

Rhubarb cordial is more than just a drink; it’s a taste of spring, a reminder of simpler times, and a connection to cherished memories. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful flavor of homemade rhubarb cordial for yourself. Experiment with different variations, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and most importantly, share it with friends and family. Cheers to a refreshing and flavorful summer!