Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce

The aroma of sweet strawberries mingling with the tartness of rhubarb can evoke warm memories of spring and summer days. This Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce is not only quick to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes, but it also perfectly balances the flavors, making it a delightful addition to your meals. The simplicity of combining fresh ingredients allows the sauce to shine in its versatility.

This recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to elevate their dishes. Whether you’re brunching with friends, hosting a family gathering, or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored for later use.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The sauce brings a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• Fresh strawberries and rhubarb create a vibrant color and texture.
• It takes only 20 minutes to whip up from start to finish.
• Versatile for serving over various dishes, enhancing every bite.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious sauce:

For the Sauce

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Cornstarch can be replaced with arrowroot for a gluten-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available.
• Substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Replace rhubarb with tart apples for a similar tang.

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps to prepare your sauce.

Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir until all components are mixed well.

Cook the Mixture

Cook over medium heat until the fruits release their juices and the mixture starts to bubble.

Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir into the fruit mixture. Continue cooking until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Cool Down

Remove from heat and let it cool before using. Serve over pancakes, yogurt, or desserts.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave or stovetop until warm, about 2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to hull and slice strawberries evenly for uniform cooking.
• Adjust sugar to taste based on the tartness of your rhubarb.
• Stir constantly once you add cornstarch to prevent lumps.
• Let the sauce cool for the best flavor development before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast.
• Serve as a topping for yogurt or ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Pair with roasted meats for a sweet-tart flavor enhancement.