Wash the rhubarb and strawberries under running, cool water. Peel the rhubarb from the fibrous ends (cut off the darker, fibrous parts) and slice it diagonally into pieces about 2-3 cm long. Remove the stems from the strawberries and cut larger ones in half. Transfer the prepared fruits to a large bowl.
Description
A traditional spring compote combining the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the delicate sweetness of strawberries, served with a subtle, fluffy meringue made from egg whites (or aquafaba as a vegan alternative) and garnished with rose petals and fresh mint. This drink has an intense pink-red color and a floral-citrus aroma — perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea parties, and as an accompaniment to light desserts. The compote looks impressive in a clear pitcher or glasses, and the meringue adds elegance and lightness, creating a contrast of textures and temperatures. Thanks to its natural ingredients, it is refreshing, slightly sour, with a pleasant layer of sweetness.
Ingredients Used
Ingredients (11)
- Rhubarb 400 g
- Strawberries 300 g
- Water 1000 ml
- Lemon juice 30 ml
- White loose leaf tea 6 g
- Egg 2 szt.
- Sugar 80 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Salt 0.0 szczypt
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- Aquafaba (alternative to egg whites) 30 ml
- Fresh mint 0.3 pęczków
- Edible rose petals 5 g
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Preparation steps
Preparing the fruits
Cooking compote
In a large pot (at least 2 liters), pour in 1000 ml of water and add 60 g of sugar (set aside 20 g of sugar for later to make the meringue). Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves (about 3-5 minutes), stirring with a wooden spoon. When the water starts to gently steam (no need to boil), add the chopped rhubarb and strawberries along with 30 ml of lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 6-8 minutes — the fruit should soften but still hold its shape.
Brewing tea
While the fruits are cooking, heat 250 ml of water in a small kettle or another pot to a temperature of about 80°C (do not let it boil). Add 6 g of white tea to the infuser or strainer and pour the hot, but not boiling, water over it. Steep for 3-4 minutes — the leaves should unfurl and release a delicate aroma. After steeping, strain the tea through a sieve and pour it into the boiling compote for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, allowing the tea to gently blend the flavors.
Finishing the compote and cooling
After 6-8 minutes of cooking, turn off the heat. Taste the compote and adjust with an additional tablespoon of sugar if needed (to taste). Set the pot aside for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then strain the compote through a fine sieve into a pitcher, collecting the juice; you can leave the fruit as a garnish for serving or keep it in a separate container. Allow the compote to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour — a well-chilled drink tastes best and looks appealing.
Preparation of the egg white foam
If you are using eggs: separate the egg whites from the yolks (use two large eggs — 120 g = about 2 pieces). Place the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl (metal or glass). Add a pinch of salt (1 g). Start whisking with a hand whisk or mixer on low speed, gradually increasing the speed. When the foam begins to form soft peaks (after about 1-2 minutes), gradually add the reserved 20 g of sugar and whisk for another 2-3 minutes until you achieve a thick, glossy meringue with stiff peaks.
Vegan alternative: aquafaba foam
If you prefer a vegan version: use 30 ml of aquafaba. Place the aquafaba in a chilled bowl and whip on high speed for 3-5 minutes until a light foam forms. Add a pinch of salt and 10 g of sugar (the reserved part of the sugar) and continue to whip until the foam is stable. The aquafaba foam is less glossy than egg whites, but it will be light and stable.
Assembly and serving
Take the chilled compote out of the fridge. Fill transparent glasses or a pitcher with the compote up to 3/4 of the height. For each serving, add 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared foam (gently spoon it on to avoid destroying the structure). Decorate with a sprig of mint and lightly sprinkle with rose petals. If you saved the fruit after straining, you can add it to the glasses as a nice, edible garnish.
Additional tips
If you want a clearer, syrupy drink: reduce the compote over low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes before straining. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sugar to 50 g. Prepare the foam just before serving — waiting too long will cause it to deflate.
Fun Fact
Compotes are traditional drinks in Central European kitchens — they were once prepared as a way to preserve fruits out of season, but fresh spring compotes, such as rhubarb, are also simply a light, homemade drink that accompanies meals.
Best for
Tips
Serve in clear glasses or a pitcher to showcase the pink color. Add the foam just before serving, and gently crush the fresh mint between your fingers to release its aroma. The strained fruit can be served as a topping for dessert.
Store the compote in a sealed jug in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best to consume the meringue made from egg whites immediately; it can be stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 24 hours, but it will lose volume. The version with aquafaba can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, but it also loses some stability.
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