Delicious Rhubarb Soft Drink

This Rhubarb Soft Drink is a refreshing and tangy beverage perfect for warm days or as a unique non-alcoholic option at parties. The tartness of the rhubarb combines beautifully with the sweetness of sugar, and a hint of lemon or cinnamon adds a delightful aroma and flavor depth. This drink is not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to store-bought sodas, as you have full control over the sugar content. While rhubarb may seem like an unusual ingredient for a drink, its versatility makes it perfect for both adventurous palates and those seeking a classic, timeless taste. Best of all, this recipe can be customized by substituting honey for sugar or adding your favorite spices to create a drink that is uniquely yours. Enjoy the vibrant red hue and refreshing properties, guaranteed to cool you down and awaken your senses. Serve it chilled or over ice, garnished with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for added elegance. This Rhubarb Soft Drink is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and aromatic flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200-250 g rhubarb stalks
• 1 liter water
• 100-120 g sugar

Spices:

• Lemon peel or cinnamon stick

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 240 minutes (including cooling time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by thoroughly rinsing the rhubarb stalks under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. Slice the rhubarb stalks into thin rounds, approximately 1 cm thick, to help release their flavor and nutrients effectively.
3. In a large pot, combine the sliced rhubarb with 1 liter of water. Ensure all pieces are submerged.
4. Add either a few strips of lemon peel or a cinnamon stick to the pot for added flavor. Choose according to your preference; the lemon will enhance tartness, while cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. This will begin to break down the rhubarb, releasing its juice and color into the water.
6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, ensuring the rhubarb softens completely.
7. After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Allow it to sit covered for 3-4 hours. This extended steeping time will intensify the flavor.
8. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solid pieces.
9. Add sugar to the strained liquid in a saucepan. Adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference.
10. Bring the liquid back to a gentle boil so that the sugar dissolves completely into the rhubarb-infused water.
11. Stir continuously, ensuring the sugar fully incorporates.
12. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and let the drink cool to room temperature.
13. If you prefer using honey instead of sugar, add 150 g of honey and stir gently to combine.
14. Transfer the cooled drink into bottles or jars and refrigerate until well chilled. This helps the flavors merge further.
15. For best results, let it chill for at least an extra hour in the fridge before serving.
16. Serve the rhubarb drink over ice cubes in a tall glass.
17. Garnish with a twist of lemon or a cinnamon stick, based on your preference used in the recipe.
18. Consider adding fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
19. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week.
20. Stir well before serving to ensure optimal taste with each glass.

Tips

• Substitute sugar with honey to add a richer flavor and health benefits.
• Slice rhubarb evenly to ensure even cooking and infusion.
• Experiment with flavors by adding spices like ginger or allspice.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 60 per serving
• Proteins: 0.3 g
• Fats: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g

Variations

• For a sugar-free option, use a natural sweetener like stevia.
• Add fresh or frozen berries during fermentation for a fruity twist.
• Swap the water with sparkling water for a fizzy treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a slice of pound cake or shortbread for a sweet pairing.
• Garnish with edible flowers for a visually appealing presentation.
• Pair with a light salad to complement the refreshing taste.

Best Places

1. Rhubarb House Café - A charming spot to enjoy unique rhubarb-based treats. Location: 15 Main St, London, UK.
2. The Sweet Tang Café - Known for a variety of housemade rhubarb drinks. Location: 78 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
3. Refreshing Roots Bistro - A creative menu focused on seasonal and local produce. Location: 22 Market St, Sydney, Australia.
4. Cinnamon and Spice Tea Room - Offers several spiced variations of classic drinks. Location: 47 Royal Ave, Toronto, Canada.
5. Lemon and Herb Café - Renowned for its innovative drinks and pastries. Location: 16 Bayswater Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
6. The Tart and Sweet Kitchen - Specializes in desserts and drinks with unique flavor profiles. Location: 33 Cherry St, New York, USA.
7. Rustic Delight Bistro - Rustic ambiance with a focus on natural flavors. Location: 59 River Rd, Munich, Germany.
8. Garden Delight Eatery - Offers garden-fresh meals and beverages. Location: 12 Orchard Dr, Auckland, New Zealand.
9. Nordic Flavor Hub - Features a northern twist on traditional foods and drinks. Location: 23 Birch St, Oslo, Norway.
10. Tropical Twist Lounge - Provides a tropical setting with exotic flavors. Location: 89 Coral Blvd, Miami, USA.