SLOW COOKER STRAWBERRY-RHUBARB SAUCE

We recently started growing our own rhubarb, and we live in a part of Oregon where strawberries are plentiful. I created this to drizzle over ice cream and filled a crisp with the rest.

—KIM BANICK SALEM, OR



PREP: 15 MIN. • COOK:1/2 HOURS • MAKES: 5 CUPS


4 cups sliced fresh or frozen rhubarb, thawed (about 10 stalks)

4 cups fresh strawberries (about 1 1/4 pounds), halved

1/2 cups sugar

1/4 cup water

3 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup cornstarch

3 tablespoons cold water

Vanilla ice cream

1. In a 3-qt. slow cooker, combine the first six ingredients. Cook, covered, on low for 4-5 hours or until the rhubarb is tender.

2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth; gradually stir into the sauce. Cook, covered, on low for 30 minutes longer or until thickened. Serve with ice cream.

Note: If using frozen rhubarb, measure rhubarb while still frozen, then thaw completely. Drain in a colander, but do not press liquid out.