Although you don't have to, I always lightly peel them and remove the tougher strings before using them to make the compote.u003cimg class=u0022wp-image-11821u0022 style=u0022max-width:100%;u0022 src=u0022https://www.mychefsapron.com/wp-content/uploads/Healthy-Rhubarb-Recipes.jpgu0022 alt=u0022Peeled raw rhubarb stalks arranged next to its own peel.u0022/u003e