This delightful dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb and sweetness of strawberries, grilled together to create a luscious compote. Served atop grilled pound cake and accompanied by a rich cream, it’s a perfect treat for spring and summer gatherings.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients:
- 1 pound rhubarb stalks, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved (quartered if large)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 slices pound cake
Directions:
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Compote Packets: In a large bowl, mix rhubarb, strawberries, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup sugar, zest of 1 orange, and salt. Divide the mixture between two large sheets of heavy-duty foil. Seal each into a packet, leaving space for steam.
- Grill the Compote: Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 15 minutes. Carefully open the packets to release steam and allow the compote to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cream: While the compote is grilling, beat heavy cream, sour cream, remaining orange zest, and 2 tablespoons sugar with an electric mixer until thick and fluffy. Refrigerate until serving.
- Grill the Pound Cake: Lower the grill to medium heat. Grill each slice of pound cake for 1-2 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
- Assemble the Dessert: Serve each grilled pound cake slice topped with the rhubarb-strawberry compote and a dollop of the prepared cream.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 308 per serving
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 37g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 525mg
The History of Rhubarb in Desserts
Rhubarb has been used in desserts for centuries, originally cultivated for medicinal purposes in China before making its way to Europe and North America. By the 18th century, it became a popular ingredient in pies, jams, and compotes. Its distinct tartness makes it an excellent complement to sweet fruits like strawberries, leading to its widespread use in classic desserts.
Why Grilled Pound Cake Works Perfectly
Pound cake is rich, buttery, and slightly dense, making it an ideal base for a fruit compote. When grilled, it develops a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior that enhances its overall texture and flavor. The heat intensifies the buttery richness of the cake while also providing a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the fruity compote.
The Importance of Using Fresh Ingredients
The quality of ingredients plays a significant role in the success of this dessert. Fresh rhubarb provides the perfect tartness, while ripe strawberries contribute natural sweetness and aroma. Using high-quality heavy cream and pound cake further elevates the flavors and ensures a decadent final dish. Seasonal ingredients, particularly in spring and summer, make this dessert even more flavorful and refreshing.
The Role of Cream in This Dessert
The addition of a creamy topping enhances the overall dessert by providing a rich and silky contrast to the tart and sweet compote. The combination of heavy cream and sour cream results in a luscious topping with a slight tang, complementing the grilled elements beautifully. This creamy component balances the dish, preventing it from being overly sweet or tart.
Variations of This Recipe
This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different preferences. For a lighter version, angel food cake can be used in place of pound cake, offering a more airy and delicate texture. Whipped coconut cream can be substituted for the dairy-based topping for a dairy-free option. Additionally, incorporating other berries like raspberries or blueberries can add new dimensions of flavor to the compote.
The Best Occasions to Serve This Dessert
This dessert is perfect for a variety of occasions, including summer barbecues, family gatherings, and outdoor picnics. The grilled elements make it a great addition to any cookout, while the fresh and vibrant flavors ensure it remains a crowd-pleaser. It also works well for more formal occasions, such as dinner parties, when plated elegantly with additional garnishes.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Experience
To enhance the dining experience, this dessert pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A glass of sparkling wine or champagne complements the fruitiness, while a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino balances the richness of the pound cake. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced herbal tea with citrus notes can provide a cooling contrast to the warm, grilled elements.
The Nutritional Aspects of This Dessert
While indulgent, this dessert offers some nutritional benefits. Rhubarb is a good source of fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health and overall well-being. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and other essential nutrients. By moderating portion sizes and using fresh, natural ingredients, this dessert can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If there are leftovers, the compote can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage, lasting up to three months. To reheat, gently warm the compote on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds. The pound cake should be reheated on a grill or in a toaster oven to maintain its crisp texture.
Exploring Other Uses for the Compote
Beyond pairing with pound cake, this rhubarb and strawberry compote has numerous other applications. It can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast. It also works well as a filling for pastries, a mix-in for yogurt or oatmeal, or even as a base for fruit sauces served over ice cream or cheesecake.
How to Make This Recipe Kid-Friendly
For a version that is more appealing to children, the tartness of rhubarb can be balanced with a little extra honey or maple syrup. Instead of grilling the pound cake, it can be served as soft slices with a dollop of the compote and cream. Serving the dessert in fun, individual portions like parfaits or layered desserts can make it more exciting for younger audiences.
Ways to Add Extra Crunch and Texture
To add a bit of crunch to this dessert, chopped toasted nuts like almonds or pecans can be sprinkled over the top. Crushed graham crackers or crumbled shortbread cookies can also be used as a crunchy garnish. These additions provide an extra layer of texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Using Different Cake Bases for Variation
Although pound cake is the traditional base for this recipe, other cakes can also work well. A vanilla sponge cake offers a lighter texture, while a lemon loaf cake can introduce a refreshing citrus element. Shortcake biscuits or scones can also be used, creating a dish reminiscent of a classic strawberry shortcake.
The Influence of Seasonal Ingredients
This dessert shines the most when made with seasonal ingredients. Rhubarb is typically in season from early spring to mid-summer, while strawberries peak in late spring and early summer. Using locally sourced, in-season produce ensures the best flavor and freshness, elevating the overall quality of the dish.
Aromatic Enhancements to Elevate the Dish
Adding subtle aromatic ingredients can bring an extra dimension to this dessert. A touch of cinnamon or cardamom in the compote can add warmth and complexity. A few fresh basil or mint leaves as a garnish can provide a fragrant contrast that complements the fruity flavors beautifully.
Making This Recipe More Decadent
For an even more indulgent version, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can be added over the plated dessert. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream can also elevate the dish, creating a rich and luxurious contrast to the tart and fruity compote.
Conclusion
Grilled rhubarb and strawberry compote with grilled pound cake is a dessert that perfectly balances tartness, sweetness, and rich textures. The combination of fresh, seasonal ingredients, the smokiness from grilling, and the luscious cream makes it a truly special treat. Whether served at a summer barbecue, a dinner party, or a casual family gathering, this dessert is sure to impress. By experimenting with different variations, garnishes, and pairings, it can be customized to suit a wide range of tastes and occasions.