The cardamom listed as an optional is delightful in this. Used the seeds from green cardamom pods and rubbed them into the sugar.

Laura: Why do you say healthier? Any proof of that? It is a wee bit tiresome to hear what some people deem a healthier form of glucose, sucrose or whatever, which according to many trained nutritionists end up as molecules which to your body, looks the same. Enjoy it if you like but let brown sugar or molasses or whatever be enjoyed as in this case moderation with a seasonal dessert.

Different varieties of rhubarb are different colors regardless of whether they are forced. If yours is tasty but mostly green, it may be Victoria, an old sweet variety.

Made this using the reader suggested maple syrup instead of sugar, because it sounded good. Also used cardamom pods, but vanilla extract instead of a bean. Couldn’t readily find a whole bean, except one place that wanted $18 and the jar was dusty! Added some zest from a Meyer lemon. This was so easy and delicious. Even my less than a fan of rhubarb husband enjoyed it. Served it on top of some vanilla ice cream with a bit of oat granola. Thinking it might make a great host/hostess gift.

Excellent result for little effort.

My first time cooking rhubarb. Used vanilla bean paste and stevia 'brown sugar' (can't have sugar). Outstanding! Tender, sweet (but not overly so), nice tart note, too. A keeper!