This Rhubarb Slush is a delightful combination of tangy rhubarb, sweet strawberry gelatin, and citrusy orange and lemon flavors that come together in an icy, refreshing treat. With or without vodka, this slush makes the perfect beverage for warm-weather gatherings, BBQs, and garden parties. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead and keep in your freezer, ready to scoop into a glass and top with fizzy soda whenever the craving strikes. Its bright color and fresh flavor profile make it a standout drink that’s sure to be requested again and again. Whether you’re looking for a non-alcoholic refreshment or a grown-up version with a splash of vodka, this Rhubarb Slush delivers.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
-
8 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
-
6 cups water
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
1 (6 oz) box strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
-
2 cups boiling water
-
1/2 cup lemon juice
-
1 (12 oz) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
-
2 cups vodka (optional)
-
Lemon-lime soda or ginger ale, for serving
Directions:
-
In a large pot, combine chopped rhubarb and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the rhubarb is soft.
-
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, discarding the solids.
-
Stir in the sugar until dissolved while the liquid is still warm.
-
In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water.
-
Add the gelatin mixture, lemon juice, and thawed orange juice concentrate to the rhubarb liquid. Mix well.
-
If using, stir in the vodka.
-
Pour the entire mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for several hours or overnight until slushy.
-
To serve, scoop slush into a glass and top with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale. Stir gently and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours (including freezing time)
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
A Summer Staple: Rhubarb Slush
When it comes to summer refreshments, few things are as nostalgic, vibrant, and versatile as Rhubarb Slush. With its bright color, tangy-sweet flavor, and slushy texture, this frosty drink is a crowd-pleaser that works for both casual backyard get-togethers and elegant garden parties. It captures the essence of early summer, especially in regions where rhubarb is among the first harvests of the season.
Rhubarb is an ingredient that many associate with rustic desserts like pies and crumbles, but its versatility shines far beyond baked goods. This slush recipe is a creative, refreshing way to enjoy rhubarb, especially during warm months when cool drinks reign supreme.
Why Rhubarb? A Forgotten Gem of the Garden
Rhubarb is one of those garden treasures that deserves more spotlight. Technically a vegetable, but legally considered a fruit in many countries due to its culinary use, rhubarb is unique in flavor and performance. It offers a tart, citrus-like brightness that perfectly balances sweet ingredients.
This tartness makes rhubarb a natural base for refreshing drinks. When simmered and sweetened, its bold flavor transforms into something utterly irresistible still tangy, but mellow enough to blend well with citrus juices and sweet strawberry gelatin, as used in this recipe. Its vivid red hue is also a feast for the eyes, adding a splash of natural color to the glass.
What Makes Rhubarb Slush So Special?
Unlike a smoothie or milkshake, a slush is icy, airy, and meant to be sipped slowly. Rhubarb Slush strikes a balance between a frozen treat and a chilled beverage. It’s light and hydrating, perfect for sipping in the sun.
What makes this version of slush truly special is its combination of flavors:
-
Rhubarb’s signature tartness
-
Strawberry gelatin’s sweetness and vibrant color
-
Citrus juices like orange and lemon adding depth
-
(Optional) Vodka for a grown-up twist
Combined and frozen, these ingredients create a texture that’s somewhere between a granita and a frozen punch. When topped with fizzy soda or ginger ale, it becomes effervescent and extra cooling.
Family-Friendly or Boozy – You Decide
One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility. It can be completely non-alcoholic, making it a great treat for children and adults alike. Or you can include vodka for a slushy cocktail that’s perfect for summer evening gatherings.
To keep things inclusive, you can prepare a large batch and divide it one portion for kids, one with added spirits for adults. The slush freezes perfectly and stores well, so it’s ready to scoop and serve when needed.
Serving Suggestions & Party Ideas
Rhubarb Slush is visually stunning and festive by nature, so it’s a great addition to your drink table at:
-
Birthday parties
-
Brunch buffets
-
Barbecues and picnics
-
Baby or bridal showers
-
Fourth of July celebrations
For serving, use clear glasses or mason jars to show off the vibrant color. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, a slice of lemon, or even a skewer of fresh strawberries and rhubarb candy for extra flair.
You can also serve this drink in a punch bowl with a ladle, keeping soda on the side so guests can top off their glasses for added fizz.
Make-Ahead Magic
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is that it’s a make-ahead miracle. The slush mixture freezes well and lasts for weeks. This makes entertaining easier no need to worry about last-minute prep. Simply scoop, pour soda, and serve.
The texture remains wonderfully slushy straight from the freezer, thanks to the sugar and alcohol content, which prevents the mixture from freezing solid. This quality makes it ideal for impromptu guests or spontaneous summer evenings.
Variations to Try
Rhubarb Slush is wonderfully customizable. Once you’re familiar with the base recipe, you can explore variations to suit your taste:
1. Berry Bliss Slush
Add fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries during the simmering process for a fuller berry flavor.
2. Citrus Twist
Enhance the citrus profile with lime juice or grapefruit juice for added complexity.
3. Herbal Infusions
Steep fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme in the rhubarb water as it cools for a sophisticated touch.
4. Tropical Version
Substitute the orange juice concentrate with pineapple juice and add a splash of coconut water for a tropical slush.
5. Low-Sugar Option
Use a sugar substitute and sugar-free gelatin for a diabetic-friendly or lower-calorie version.
The Health Benefits of Rhubarb
While this recipe is more of a treat than a health tonic, rhubarb itself has some nutritional perks. It’s high in:
-
Vitamin K – good for bone health and blood clotting
-
Antioxidants – including anthocyanins that support heart health
-
Calcium and Fiber – promoting digestive health and regularity
Keep in mind that rhubarb leaves are toxic and should never be consumed only the stalks are used in cooking.
Cultural and Seasonal Connection
In many parts of the world, rhubarb is a marker of early spring. For those who grow it in home gardens, rhubarb often becomes available before most fruits are even budding. That makes this slush not only refreshing but also seasonally symbolic a way to celebrate the end of winter and the promise of warm, sunny days ahead.
It’s also a fun way to introduce children and guests to rhubarb in a form that’s more approachable than traditional pies or crisps.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re sipping it under the summer sun or preparing it as a colorful addition to your spring menu, Rhubarb Slush is an easy, vibrant, and crowd-pleasing beverage that deserves a spot in your recipe collection.
Its sweet-tart flavor, eye-catching hue, and flexible preparation make it a standout. With the ability to adapt it to your taste alcoholic or not, sweeter or tangier, infused or classic it’s no surprise that this frosty treat remains a beloved go-to for home entertainers and rhubarb lovers alike.