Rhubarb Lemonade Concentrate: A Tart-Sweet Summer Refresher 🍋🌿
When the sun’s blazing and your herb garden is thriving, there’s no better way to cool off than with a glass of refreshing lemonade. But not just any lemonade—we’re talking about a tart and tangy Rhubarb Lemonade Concentrate that lets you bottle up summer and enjoy it on demand.
This vibrant, ruby-red concentrate balances the bold tang of rhubarb with zesty lemon and just enough sweetness to make every sip sparkle. Make a batch and stash it in the freezer—you’ll thank yourself when you’re craving that patio-perfect drink in July (or even January).
Why I Love This Recipe
- Seasonal and fresh – Rhubarb’s sharp flavor shines here.
- Big batch-friendly – Makes enough for multiple pitchers.
- Versatile concentrate – Just add water (or sparkling water!).
- Freezer-friendly – Keeps beautifully for 6 months.
- No artificial flavors or colors – Just real fruit and love.
This concentrate pairs perfectly with other summer sips like Blueberry Lemonade or even a Strawberry Mojito for a citrusy cocktail twist.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rhubarb, chopped (leaves discarded)
- 2 large lemons, juiced and zested
- 15 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups water
💡 Note: This makes a concentrated syrup. You’ll dilute it before serving, so don’t be alarmed by the sugar—it balances out perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Rhubarb
- Wash the rhubarb and chop it into ½-inch pieces.
- Discard all leaves—they’re toxic and should not be used.
- Place rhubarb in a large saucepan or Dutch oven.
2. Juice and Zest the Lemons
- Wash your lemons well.
- Use a fine grater or microplane to zest them, taking care not to include bitter white pith.
- Juice the lemons, strain out the seeds, and pour the juice over the rhubarb.
3. Make the Concentrate
- In the saucepan, add:
- 3 cups water
- 15 cups sugar
- Zest and juice of lemons
- Chopped rhubarb
- Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often to dissolve the sugar.
- Let it simmer for 20 minutes until the rhubarb softens and begins to fall apart.
4. Mash and Strain
- Remove from heat and cool slightly (about 10 minutes).
- Use a potato masher or spoon to gently mash the mixture and release even more flavor.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or measuring jug.
5. Store or Freeze
- Pour the concentrate into clean glass jars or freezer-safe containers.
- Cool completely before sealing.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
How to Serve Rhubarb Lemonade
Mix 1 part concentrate to 3 parts cold water, stir, and serve over ice.
✨ Want to get fancy?
Use sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy version. Or make a cocktail with a splash of gin or vodka.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it’s what makes the flavor pop.
- Use fresh, tender rhubarb stalks for best results.
- Stir the concentrate before each use—it may settle slightly.
- Label your freezer jars with the date so you can track freshness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
A glass of rhubarb lemonade is delicious on its own, but it’s also the perfect drink to accompany:
- Rainbow Sangria – for a party-ready pairing
- Classic Margarita – citrusy cousins unite
- The Slippery Drank – sweet sipper meets tangy refresher
- Strawberry Mojito – double the minty citrus fun
- Blueberry Lemonade – tart, sweet, and berry bright
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerator: Keep concentrate in a sealed glass bottle for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in wide-mouth jars, leaving headspace, or use silicone ice cube trays for single-serve portions.
- To Thaw: Simply place in the fridge overnight or defrost at room temp for a few hours.
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Final Thoughts
This Rhubarb Lemonade Concentrate captures everything that makes summer feel alive—bright color, bold tang, and refreshing simplicity. Whether you’re mixing up a pitcher for a BBQ or stashing some in the freezer for future sunny days, this recipe is a must for rhubarb lovers and lemonade fans alike.
Tried it? Show us your creation on social and tag @ChefManiac! We love to see your seasonal sips. 🍋🌿
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