Rhubarb crumble

Rhubarb Crumble is a traditional British dessert dish, typically served with custard or cream. It is made by layering stewed rhubarb at the bottom of a dish, and then topping it with a crumbly mixture of fat (usually butter), flour, and sugar. The dish is then baked until the rhubarb is soft and the topping is golden and crisp.

History

The origins of Rhubarb Crumble are not well-documented, but it is believed to have become popular in Britain during the Second World War, when rationing made other desserts difficult to prepare. Rhubarb was easy to grow in home gardens, and the simple ingredients required for the crumble topping were readily available.

Preparation

The first step in making Rhubarb Crumble is to prepare the rhubarb. The stalks are trimmed and cut into pieces, then stewed with sugar until they are soft. Some recipes also include other ingredients, such as ginger or orange zest, to add extra flavor.

The crumble topping is made by rubbing fat into flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Sugar is then added to sweeten the topping. This mixture is sprinkled over the stewed rhubarb, and the dish is baked in the oven until the topping is golden and crisp.

Variations

While Rhubarb Crumble is a classic dish, there are many variations. Some recipes include other fruits, such as apples or strawberries, in the filling. Others add oats or nuts to the crumble topping for extra texture. There are also gluten-free and vegan versions of Rhubarb Crumble, which use alternative ingredients to cater for different dietary requirements.

Serving

Rhubarb Crumble is typically served hot, often with a side of custard or cream. Some people also enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream.

See also

• Crumble
• Rhubarb
• British cuisine