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Ready for Rhubarb!

rhubarb
Freeze raw rhubarb on a tray then pack into containers. Photo: NCHFP

Rhubarb will soon be popping out of the ground! It is a perennial favorite in Midwest gardens. Here are some tips to store rhubarb or preserve it for later use.

After harvest, store rhubarb stalks in the refrigerator loosely wrapped in foil. This helps prevent moisture loss causing the stalks to become limp. Wrapping them tightly in an airtight plastic bag or wrap can also soften the stalks quickly. Wrapping loosely in foil reduces ethylene gas loss. It should remain fresh about two weeks.

To preserve for later use, here are some options from University of Georgia:

Source: Cook’s Illustrated

 

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.