Rhubarb Brown Betty

Rhubarb Brown Betty Recipe - A tangy and comforting dessert from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35-45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Rhubarb Brown Betty is a classic dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet and crunchy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh rhubarb and is a great way to enjoy this seasonal ingredient.

History

The exact origins of Rhubarb Brown Betty are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in America in the 19th century. This dessert was a popular way to use up leftover bread and make the most of seasonal fruits like rhubarb.

Ingredients

450 g (1 lb) rhubarb
225 g (8 oz) fresh wholewheat breadcrumbs
50 g (2 oz) Barbados sugar
2.5 ml (0.5 tsp) ground ginger
50 ml (2 fl oz) fresh orange juice
250 ml (0.5 pt) natural yogurt, to serve

How to prepare

Trim the rhubarb and cut the stalks into short lengths.
Place the rhubarb in a greased ovenproof dish with a capacity of 900 ml (1.5 pt).
Combine the breadcrumbs, sugar, and ground ginger, then sprinkle the mixture over the rhubarb.
Pour the orange juice over the breadcrumb topping.
Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (Gas Oven Mark 3) for 35–45 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and the topping is golden brown.
Rhubarb Brown Betty can be served hot or cold, accompanied by natural yogurt. Leftovers can be reheated.

Variations

Substitute the orange juice with apple juice for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the breadcrumb topping for extra warmth.
Mix in some chopped nuts or oats for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the rhubarb and cut it into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use fresh wholewheat breadcrumbs for a nutty and crunchy topping.

- Adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe based on the tartness of the rhubarb.

- Serve Rhubarb Brown Betty with a dollop of natural yogurt for a creamy contrast to the tart rhubarb.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rhubarb Brown Betty warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat. Alternatively, enjoy it cold with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white sugar instead of Barbados sugar.

- Replace wholewheat breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Rhubarb Brown Betty up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a fresh and warm dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rhubarb Brown Betty in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Dust the top with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Rhubarb Brown Betty with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience. For a more indulgent pairing, serve it with a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Rhubarb Brown Betty in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 50g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 20g

Fats

- Total Fat: 2g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 10% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains wheat (breadcrumbs)

Summary

Rhubarb Brown Betty is a moderate source of carbohydrates and provides a good amount of dietary fiber. It is low in fats and proteins but contains essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C and calcium.

Summary

Rhubarb Brown Betty is a delightful dessert that celebrates the flavors of fresh rhubarb. With a crunchy breadcrumb topping and a tart rhubarb filling, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet and sour. Enjoy it warm or cold with a dollop of natural yogurt for a satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, just like any other, when I stumbled upon a quaint little farmer's market while out for a leisurely stroll. The market was bursting with fresh produce, and as I meandered through the stalls, the vibrant hues of the fruits and vegetables caught my eye.

As I made my way past the rows of plump strawberries and juicy peaches, my gaze fell upon a humble bundle of rhubarb. The vivid pink stalks beckoned to me, and I couldn't resist the urge to purchase a few to take home. Rhubarb was a rarity in my kitchen, and I was eager to try my hand at incorporating it into a new recipe.

That evening, I set to work in my cozy little kitchen, armed with the rhubarb and a sense of culinary adventure. I scoured my collection of cookbooks and recipe cards, but none of them seemed to do justice to the unique ingredient that was now in my possession. Just as I was about to give up, a faded and tattered recipe card caught my eye. The title read "Rhubarb Brown Betty", and my curiosity was piqued.

The recipe was simple yet elegant, with just a handful of ingredients that I already had on hand. The tangy rhubarb was layered with buttery breadcrumbs and a hint of cinnamon, then baked until golden and bubbly. It sounded like the perfect way to showcase the fresh rhubarb that had captured my attention earlier that day.

I wasted no time in getting to work, carefully following the instructions laid out on the weathered recipe card. As the scent of cinnamon and baked rhubarb filled my kitchen, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. The familiar ritual of cooking brought me comfort and joy, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire.

When the Rhubarb Brown Betty emerged from the oven, it was a sight to behold. The golden breadcrumbs crunched under my fork, revealing the tender rhubarb beneath. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the tartness of the rhubarb balanced by the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar.

I savored every mouthful, relishing in the warmth and comfort that this simple dessert brought me. As I sat at my kitchen table, enjoying the fruits of my labor, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this recipe. Who had first created it, and what stories lay behind its creation?

I imagined a grandmother, much like myself, passing down the recipe to her loved ones with care and reverence. Perhaps she had learned it from her own mother, who in turn had inherited it from generations past. The thought of this recipe being cherished and shared through the years brought a smile to my face.

From that day on, Rhubarb Brown Betty became a beloved tradition in my household. Whenever rhubarb was in season, I would make it without fail, delighting in the memories and stories that it brought to mind. It became a symbol of the joy that cooking and sharing food can bring, connecting me to a rich tapestry of culinary heritage.

As I sit here now, years later, with the scent of Rhubarb Brown Betty wafting through my kitchen once more, I am grateful for the simple pleasures that food can bring. This recipe may have come to me by chance, but it has since become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of tradition and the joy of sharing meals with those we love. And for that, I am truly thankful.