Rhubarb, with its distinctive tart flavor and vibrant pink stalks, is a culinary harbinger of spring. But knowing when you can find fresh rhubarb in your local grocery store can be a bit tricky. Its seasonality is relatively short compared to other produce, and availability can vary depending on your location and the specific year’s growing conditions. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about rhubarb season and where to find it.
Understanding Rhubarb Seasonality
Rhubarb is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. It thrives in cooler climates and is one of the first crops to emerge in the spring. This makes it a welcome sight after a long winter.
The Peak Season for Rhubarb
The peak rhubarb season typically runs from April to June. This is when you’ll find the freshest and most readily available rhubarb in most grocery stores. In some warmer regions, you might even see it appear as early as late March. However, the later into the summer you go, the more difficult it becomes to find fresh rhubarb.
Forced Rhubarb vs. Field-Grown Rhubarb
It’s important to distinguish between two types of rhubarb: forced rhubarb and field-grown rhubarb. Forced rhubarb is grown indoors, often in dark sheds, which results in paler pink stalks and a more delicate flavor. It also tends to be available earlier in the year, sometimes as early as January or February in specialized markets or farms. Field-grown rhubarb, on the other hand, is exposed to the elements and develops a deeper red color and a more intense, tart flavor. Field-grown rhubarb is what you’ll typically find in grocery stores during its peak season.
Regional Variations in Rhubarb Availability
Rhubarb availability can vary significantly depending on where you live. Regions with cooler climates, such as the northern United States and Canada, tend to have longer rhubarb seasons than warmer areas. In the Pacific Northwest, for example, rhubarb season can extend well into July. Conversely, in the southern United States, the season is shorter and less reliable. Always check with your local grocery store or farmers market to confirm availability in your area.
Where to Find Rhubarb in the Grocery Store
Once you know when to look for rhubarb, the next step is knowing where to find it in the grocery store. It’s not always in the same spot, so a little searching may be required.
The Produce Section: Your First Stop
The produce section is the most likely place to find fresh rhubarb. Look for it alongside other seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as asparagus, strawberries, and spring greens. It’s often displayed near the celery or other stalk vegetables, as its appearance is somewhat similar.
Frozen Rhubarb: A Year-Round Option
If you’re unable to find fresh rhubarb or it’s outside of the peak season, consider looking for frozen rhubarb. Many grocery stores carry frozen rhubarb in the frozen fruit section. This is a great option for baking and cooking, as frozen rhubarb retains its flavor and texture well. Frozen rhubarb can be found year-round.
Specialty Stores and Farmers Markets
Beyond typical grocery stores, consider checking out specialty stores and farmers markets. Specialty stores, such as gourmet food shops, often carry unique or hard-to-find produce, including rhubarb. Farmers markets are another excellent source, especially if you’re looking for locally grown rhubarb. You can often find the freshest and highest-quality rhubarb at farmers markets, and you can also support local farmers.
Factors Affecting Rhubarb Availability
Even within the typical rhubarb season, availability can fluctuate. Several factors can influence when you can buy rhubarb in the grocery store.
Weather Conditions and Climate
Weather plays a crucial role in rhubarb production. A cold winter followed by a mild spring is ideal for rhubarb growth. Extreme weather events, such as late frosts or excessive heat, can damage crops and shorten the season. Unpredictable weather patterns can significantly impact the availability of rhubarb.
Demand and Supply
Like any other commodity, rhubarb availability is also influenced by demand and supply. If there’s high demand for rhubarb and a limited supply, it may be harder to find in grocery stores. Conversely, if there’s a surplus of rhubarb, you may find it more readily available and even on sale.
Transportation and Distribution Networks
The efficiency of transportation and distribution networks also affects rhubarb availability. Rhubarb is a perishable crop, so it needs to be transported quickly and efficiently from the farm to the grocery store. Delays in transportation can lead to spoilage and reduced availability. Areas closer to major rhubarb-growing regions generally have better access.
How to Select the Best Rhubarb
Once you’ve located rhubarb in the grocery store, it’s essential to choose the best stalks for your culinary creations. Here are some tips for selecting high-quality rhubarb.
Look for Firm, Crisp Stalks
When selecting rhubarb, look for stalks that are firm, straight, and crisp. Avoid stalks that are limp, wilted, or damaged. The stalks should feel heavy for their size, indicating that they are full of moisture.
Check the Color and Texture
The color of rhubarb stalks can vary from light pink to deep red. While color isn’t necessarily an indicator of flavor, deeper red stalks tend to be more flavorful. The texture should be smooth and glossy. Avoid stalks with blemishes or signs of decay.
Examine the Leaves (If Attached)
If the rhubarb still has its leaves attached, make sure they are fresh and vibrant. However, remember that rhubarb leaves are toxic and should never be eaten. Always remove and discard the leaves before cooking.
Consider the Size
The size of the rhubarb stalks doesn’t necessarily affect the flavor, but larger stalks can be more convenient to work with. Choose stalks that are of a uniform size for consistent cooking.
Storing Rhubarb Properly
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality of rhubarb. Here are some tips for storing fresh rhubarb.
Refrigerate Rhubarb Immediately
As soon as you get home from the grocery store, refrigerate the rhubarb. This will help to slow down the rate of spoilage.
Wrap Rhubarb in Plastic Wrap
Wrap the rhubarb stalks in plastic wrap to help retain moisture. This will prevent them from drying out in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can place the stalks in a plastic bag.
Store Rhubarb in the Crisper Drawer
Store the wrapped rhubarb in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This is the coldest part of the refrigerator and will help to prolong its shelf life.
Use Rhubarb Within a Week
Fresh rhubarb is best used within a week of purchase. After a week, it may start to lose its crispness and flavor.
Enjoying Rhubarb: Culinary Uses and Recipes
Once you’ve found your rhubarb, it’s time to put it to good use in the kitchen. Rhubarb is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.
Sweet Treats: Pies, Crumbles, and Jams
Rhubarb is most commonly used in sweet treats, such as pies, crumbles, and jams. Its tart flavor pairs well with sugar and other sweet fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries. Rhubarb pie is a classic dessert that’s perfect for spring.
Savory Dishes: Chutneys and Sauces
Rhubarb can also be used in savory dishes, such as chutneys and sauces. Its tartness adds a unique flavor to these dishes, and it pairs well with meats and vegetables. Rhubarb chutney is a delicious accompaniment to grilled chicken or pork.
Beverages: Rhubarb Juice and Cocktails
Rhubarb juice is a refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. It has a tart and slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect for warm weather. Rhubarb cocktails are becoming increasingly popular, and there are many creative recipes to choose from.
Experiment with Rhubarb
Don’t be afraid to experiment with rhubarb in your own recipes. Its unique flavor can add a special touch to a wide variety of dishes. Try adding it to smoothies, salads, or even soups. The possibilities are endless.
Extending the Rhubarb Season
Even if you miss the peak rhubarb season, there are ways to enjoy its unique flavor throughout the year.
Freezing Rhubarb for Later Use
Freezing rhubarb is an excellent way to preserve it for later use. Simply wash, trim, and chop the rhubarb stalks, then spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the rhubarb to a freezer bag or container. Frozen rhubarb can be stored for up to a year.
Canning Rhubarb
Canning rhubarb is another way to preserve it for longer periods. Rhubarb jam, chutney, and sauce can be canned using standard canning methods. Canned rhubarb can be stored for up to two years.
Growing Your Own Rhubarb
If you enjoy rhubarb, consider growing your own. Rhubarb is relatively easy to grow, and it can provide you with a steady supply of fresh stalks for many years. Plant rhubarb crowns in the spring or fall, and be sure to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Conclusion
Knowing when you can buy rhubarb in the grocery store is essential for enjoying this seasonal treat. By understanding the rhubarb season, knowing where to look, and selecting the best stalks, you can make the most of this delicious and versatile ingredient. Whether you’re baking a classic rhubarb pie or experimenting with savory dishes, rhubarb is sure to add a unique flavor to your culinary creations. Remember to consider regional variations, check specialty stores and farmers markets, and don’t hesitate to use frozen rhubarb when fresh isn’t available. Enjoy!
When is the peak season for rhubarb in grocery stores?
Rhubarb’s peak season generally spans from April to June. This is when the stalks are most tender, flavorful, and readily available at most grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Factors like geographic location and specific climate conditions can influence the exact timing, but springtime typically marks the beginning of its prime harvesting period.
During the peak season, you’ll often find rhubarb at the best prices and with the widest selection. Grocery stores tend to stock more of it during these months due to increased consumer demand and the plant’s natural growth cycle. Consider visiting your local farmers’ market as well for potentially fresher options directly from local growers.
How can I tell if the rhubarb at the grocery store is fresh?
Look for stalks that are firm, crisp, and brightly colored. The color intensity can vary from light pink to deep red, depending on the variety, but avoid stalks that appear limp, wilted, or bruised. Check the cut ends; they should look fresh and moist, not dried out or cracked.
The leaves, if still attached, should be vibrant and perky. Remember that rhubarb leaves are toxic and should not be eaten. However, their appearance can indicate the overall freshness of the stalk. If the leaves are droopy or yellowing, it’s a sign the rhubarb isn’t as fresh as it could be.
Is rhubarb available year-round in grocery stores?
While rhubarb’s peak season is in the spring, you might occasionally find it outside of those months. This is often due to greenhouse growing or frozen rhubarb that has been stored from the peak season. Availability will vary greatly depending on the store and location.
It’s less common to find fresh rhubarb readily available year-round because it’s a seasonal crop. Grocery stores typically prioritize stocking it during its natural growing period. If you’re looking for rhubarb outside of spring and early summer, you may have better luck checking specialty stores or purchasing frozen.
What are the different varieties of rhubarb, and do grocery stores typically specify which variety they carry?
Common rhubarb varieties include Victoria, Crimson Red, and Canada Red. Victoria is known for its green stalks with a blush of red, while Crimson Red is almost entirely red. Canada Red is prized for its intensely red color and slightly sweeter flavor.
Grocery stores rarely specify the exact variety of rhubarb they carry. It’s often labeled simply as “rhubarb.” The color of the stalks is usually the best indicator of the type, but don’t hesitate to ask a produce worker if you’re curious about the specific variety they have in stock.
What should I do if I can’t find fresh rhubarb at the grocery store?
Consider checking the frozen food section. Many grocery stores carry frozen rhubarb, which is a great alternative when fresh is unavailable. Frozen rhubarb is typically harvested at peak ripeness and retains much of its flavor and nutritional value.
Another option is to visit local farmers’ markets or specialty produce stores. These smaller venues may have rhubarb when larger grocery chains do not. If all else fails, consider ordering rhubarb online from specialty food retailers.
How should I store rhubarb purchased from the grocery store?
Wrap the rhubarb stalks loosely in plastic wrap and store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This will help to retain moisture and prevent them from drying out. Properly stored rhubarb can last for up to a week.
Avoid washing the rhubarb before storing it, as excess moisture can promote spoilage. Wash it just before using it. If you need to store the rhubarb for longer than a week, consider freezing it. Cut the stalks into smaller pieces and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Does the color of rhubarb indicate its ripeness or sweetness?
The color of rhubarb primarily indicates the variety, not necessarily its ripeness or sweetness. Deeper red stalks are often associated with a slightly sweeter flavor, but even green stalks can be perfectly ripe and flavorful.
Ripeness is best determined by the firmness and crispness of the stalks. Look for stalks that feel sturdy and snap easily when bent. Avoid stalks that are limp or soft, regardless of their color. The intensity of the color may change based on how ripe the rhubarb is but will mainly indicate the difference in varieties.