Strawberry Rhubarb Oatmeal with Buckwheat Honey & Bee Pollen
I drove upstate over Memorial Day weekend and stayed at the coziest little cabin overlooking the Catskill Mountains. The weather wasn’t great—cold and rainy, as it always seems to be this time of year. But honestly, I didn’t mind. There’s something about being tucked away in the mountains, a fire crackling, the rain tapping on the roof—it was kind of perfect in its own moody way.
While exploring local spots, I came across a gem of a place—Vinnie’s Farm Market in Saugerties. I had been researching farmers markets in the area, and this one really stood out. Fresh produce, local charm, and that perfect small-town feel. I picked up some rhubarb, strawberries, buckwheat honey, and bee pollen—all of which ended up in the cozy oatmeal I made later that weekend.
Also—if you're anywhere near Hunter and want great coffee, tea, or matcha (plus really good baked goods), definitely check out Fellow Mountain. I tried a strawberry matcha for the first time and it totally blew me away.
Compote Ingredients
1 ½ cups chopped rhubarb (about 3 stalks)
1 ½ cups chopped fresh strawberries
2–3 tablespoons buckwheat honey (adjust to taste)
Directions
Combine the fruit: In a small saucepan, add the chopped rhubarb and strawberries.
Cook gently: Place over medium-low heat and cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The fruit will start to soften and break down into a thick compote. No water is needed unless it starts sticking—if so, add just 1–2 teaspoons.
Sweeten: Once the mixture has softened, stir in the buckwheat honey. Taste and add more if you prefer it sweeter.
Cool & store: Let cool slightly before transferring to a clean jar. Store in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
Fun Facts About Buckwheat Honey
Dark & Bold
Buckwheat honey is much darker than most honeys—almost molasses-like in color. Its flavor is strong, earthy, and malty, often described as “robust” or “funky” in the best way.Nutrient-Rich
It's one of the most antioxidant-rich honeys out there. Studies have found it contains more phenolic compounds (natural antioxidants) than lighter honeys like clover or acacia.Natural Cough Syrup
A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that buckwheat honey was more effective than over-the-counter cough syrup in calming nighttime coughs in children.Bee Favorite
Buckwheat plants produce a lot of nectar in a short bloom time, making them a favorite of bees—and resulting in high-yield honey harvests.Not Related to Wheat
Despite its name, buckwheat isn't a type of wheat at all. It's actually a seed related to rhubarb and sorrel—which makes buckwheat honey naturally gluten-free.Pairs Well With Savory Foods
Because of its deep flavor, buckwheat honey is often used in marinades, glazes, and even with cheeses or roasted vegetables—not just sweet dishes.Heirloom Flavor
The flavor of buckwheat honey can vary by region, depending on the buckwheat variety and growing conditions—kind of like wine or single-origin coffee.
Bee Pollen 101: What You Should Know
What is it?
Bee pollen is a mixture of flower pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey, wax, and bee secretions. It's collected by worker bees and packed into granules, which are often harvested by beekeepers using a small trap at the hive’s entrance.
Fun Facts
Nature’s Multivitamin: Some call bee pollen one of the most complete foods in nature due to its wide range of nutrients.
Bee Superfuel: Bees use it as a vital food source, especially for young bees and the queen.
Flavor Profile: Slightly sweet, floral, and a little earthy—great sprinkled over oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie bowls.
Color Variety: Depending on the flowers it's sourced from, bee pollen can range from bright yellow to deep orange, green, or even purplish hues.
Used Since Ancient Times: Egyptians and Greeks valued bee pollen for its supposed healing properties and used it in medicine and rituals.
Quick Caution
Bee pollen can cause allergic reactions in some people—especially those with pollen or bee allergies. Always start with a tiny amount to test tolerance.
If you make our Strawberry Rhubarb Oatmeal with Buckwheat Honey & Bee Pollen please let us know by leaving a rating below!
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Strawberry Rhubarb Oatmeal with Buckwheat Honey & Bee Pollen
This hearty oatmeal is topped with a tangy-sweet rhubarb and strawberry compote, drizzled with buckwheat honey, and finished with a sprinkle of bee pollen for a nourishing, flavor-packed start to the day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the fruit: In a small saucepan, add the chopped rhubarb and strawberries.
- Cook gently: Place over medium-low heat and cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The fruit will start to soften and break down into a thick compote. No water is needed unless it starts sticking—if so, add just 1–2 teaspoons.
- Sweeten: Once the mixture has softened, stir in the buckwheat honey. Taste and add more if you prefer it sweeter.
- Cool & store: Let cool slightly before transferring to a clean jar. Store in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
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