Rhubarb Compote (Polish Drink Kompot)
Discover an old tradition with every sip of this delicious rhubarb compote drink. Learn how to make the perfect rhubarb compote (kompot rabarbarowy) Polish drink for a refreshing treat.

Rhubarb compote, a beloved Polish drink called Kompot with a tart and tangy flavor, it has been cherished for generations in Eastern Europe. Made from the vibrant pink stalks of rhubarb plants, this delightful beverage offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity.
You can serve on hot summer days or warm it up on chilly winters. Kompot is a refreshing drink, you can enjoy it on its own or use it as an ingredient in cocktails and desserts. Let’s explore the rich history, traditional preparation methods, and creative ways to savor the unique taste of rhubarb compote – a quintessential Polish treat. Thirsty? Try other delicious drinks here: Red Beet Fruit Detox Smoothie and Sugar Free Unsweetened Cranberry Juice.
Rhubarb Compote Polish Drink Recipe
Texture: liquid.
Taste: sweet and tangy with strong rhubarb flavor.
Simplicity: very simple to make, only 3 ingredients, cook the Polish kompot and enjoy!
Meal Type: drink.
What is Polish Kompot Drink?
It is a non alcoholic beverage that can be enjoyed either cold or hot, and it is effortlessly prepared using fruits like rhubarb, strawberries, peaches, plums, and more. The fruits are simmered with water and sugar to create the refreshing drink known as KOMPOT. Cooking polish drink Kompot is the way to preserve fruit for the winter. Serve it alongside dinner.
Ingredients Needed

- Rhubarb – use fresh rhubarb stalks, washed and cut into bite sized pieces. Rhubarb gives the drink a slightly tart and refreshing flavor.
- Water – plain water is used to dilute the drink and extract the natural flavors from the rhubarb. You can adjust the amount depending on how strong or light you want the drink to be.
- Sugar – white granulated sugar is traditionally used to sweeten this Polish drink. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste, or substitute with cane sugar or honey if desired.
How to make Rhubarb Compote
- (Full recipe below). In a large pot, combine the rhubarb, sugar, and water.
- Cook for 30 – 40 minutes, until the rhubarb is soft.
- Drain the mixture and gently squeeze the rhubarb to extract the remaining liquid.



Rhubarb Compote (Kompot) Tips
- Start by cooking it with plenty of water. If the flavor turns out too sour, you can always add more water to dilute it to your taste.
- You can adjust the sugar according to your preference. Traditionally, Polish kompot uses regular white sugar, but you can swap it with cane sugar or even honey for a different flavor.
- It’s best to follow the basic recipe first. After cooking, taste the drink and decide whether you want to dilute it further with water or add more sugar to achieve the desired balance.

Polish Drink FAQ’s
This simple Polish drink requires just three ingredients: fresh rhubarb stalks for a naturally tart flavor, water to cook and dilute the rhubarb, and sugar to sweeten the drink. Despite its simplicity, it’s refreshing, flavorful, and easy to make at home.
No, there is no need to peel the rhubarb. Simply wash the stalks thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris, then cut them into pieces. The skin is thin and tender, and it cooks down easily, adding both flavor and color to the drink.
You can store this Polish drink in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 – 3 days. If you don’t plan to drink it all within that time, consider freezing portions to preserve it longer. Freezing is a great option, as it allows you to enjoy the refreshing drink later without losing its flavor.
There are lots of delicious options! You can make jams, this refreshing Polish rhubarb drink that’s perfect to enjoy every day, cakes, and muffins. Rhubarb also adds bright, tangy flavor to sweet breads, tarts, crumbles, and even compotes. Its tangy flavor and unique texture make rhubarb a great addition to all kinds of sweet treats.
Other Drink Recipes

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Rhubarb Compote Polish Kompot
Instructions
- In a large pot add rhubarb, sugar and pour water.5 cups rhubarb, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 10 cups water
- Bring to boil, cook on medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, slightly covered.
- Drain rhubarb, push extra juice from rhubarb with a spoon.
- Pour into jug.
- If the rhubarb is to sour for you add additional 2-3 cups of water. Or add extra sugar if needed.
Equipment needed
Notes
- How long does rhubarb compote last? You can store this polish drink in refrigerator. It will be good for up to 2-3 days. Consider freezing if you will not drink it all.
- You need to cook the drink with lots of water but you can add more water if the drink is too sour.
- The same with sugar, you can add more sugar if you want.
- You can use cane sugar or even honey but usually polish drink kompot is made with white regular.
- First make the recipe, after cooking check if you want to dilute more with water or add more sugar.