As winter blankets the landscape in a cozy embrace, the December season ushers in an array of delicious seasonal produce just waiting to be incorporated into heartwarming recipes. In this edition of our seasonal produce and recipes guide, we are thrilled to spotlight the versatile vegetable of rhubarb. Known for its vibrant color and refreshing tang, rhubarb adds a delightful twist to both sweet and savory dishes. Join us as we explore the delightful world of December seasonal produce with our featured recipe: Rhubarbarians.
**Rhubarbarians Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (9×9 inches or equivalent) with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. **Prepare the Rhubarb:** In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb softens and the mixture slightly thickens, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. **Create the Crumble Topping:** In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Assemble the Dish:** Spread the cooked rhubarb mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the rhubarb layer, covering it entirely.
5. **Bake to Perfection:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb filling is bubbling around the edges.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once done, remove the Rhubarbarians from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This delightful dessert pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
7. **Store and Reheat:** Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Rhubarbarians are the perfect way to celebrate the seasonal bounty of December and infuse your home with the cozy aromas of a freshly baked dessert. Whether enjoyed as a comforting treat after a long day or shared with loved ones during a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a winter favorite in your kitchen. Embrace the joy of seasonal cooking with this delightful creation that highlights the beauty of rhubarb in all its glory. Let the sweet and tangy flavors of this dish transport you to a winter wonderland of culinary delights.
