RHUBARB FOOL RECIPES

Steps:

• Trim the ends from the rhubarb and cut into 6 inch lengths. Soak in a large bowl full of cold water for 20 minutes. Drain and pat dry, then cut crosswise into 1/2 inch slices.
• In a saucepan, stir together the orange juice, 1 cup of sugar and salt. Bring to a boil and add the rhubarb. Return to a boil, then set heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring only 2 or 3 times, until rhubarb is tender, 7 to 10 minutes. Stirring too much will cause the rhubarb to break down. Transfer the rhubarb mixture to a glass or ceramic bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour.
• Whip the heavy cream with the remaining sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer until it can stand in a soft peak.
• To assemble the fools, spoon 1/4 cup of the rhubarb mixture into each of 8 small glasses. Cover with the same amount of whipped cream. Repeat layers until you reach the top of the glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours before serving.

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, toss the rhubarb with 1/2 cup of sugar. Spread evenly on a nonstick baking sheet. Roast about 20 minutes. Transfer to a container, including any juices from the sheet. Let cool, and then cover and refrigerate.
• To assemble, drain rhubarb in a strainer over a bowl, reserving juices; set aside. Split vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the pulp into the remaining sugar. Mix well, and then add to cream. Beat until stiff. In a glass bowl or individual tall glasses, layer rhubarb and cream, starting with rhubarb and ending with cream. Drizzle rhubarb juice over the top. Serve immediately or chill for up to 4 hours.