Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce



2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
5 teaspoons cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1 cup sliced rhubarb
5 drops red food coloring (optional)

1. Combine sugar, orange juice, cornstarch, and vanilla in a large sauce pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Add strawberries and rhubarb; reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and mash the cooked berries with a fork. Stir in food coloring, if using. Serve warm or cold.

Yield: 5 cups