Easy Strawberry Shrub

Easy Strawberry Shrub: A Refreshing and Versatile Beverage

If you’re looking for a delightful and refreshing drink to enjoy during the warmer months, look no further than this Easy Strawberry Shrub recipe. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and tangy apple cider vinegar, this sweet and sour concoction is perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into cocktails and mocktails alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make this simple yet flavorful beverage, along with some frequently asked questions, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those watching their sugar intake. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

  • Produce:
    • 3 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
  • Baking & Spices:
    • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • Oils & Vinegars:
    • 3 cups apple cider vinegar
  • Drinks:
    • Club soda (for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

  1. Rinse the strawberries under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. Hull the strawberries and slice them into quarters or smaller pieces, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Make the Shrub

  1. In a large glass jar or bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
  2. Use a muddler or wooden spoon to gently mash the strawberries and sugar together, releasing their juices.
  3. Cover the jar or bowl and let the strawberry mixture sit at room temperature for 1-2 days, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Vinegar

  1. After the strawberries have macerated and released their juices, add the apple cider vinegar to the mixture.
  2. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 4: Strain and Bottle

  1. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a clean glass jar or bottle.
  2. Pour the strawberry mixture through the strainer, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
  3. Discard the solids or save them for another use, such as topping yogurt or ice cream.
  4. Seal the jar or bottle tightly and store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to several weeks.

Step 5: Serve

  1. To serve, pour a small amount of the strawberry shrub into a glass filled with ice.
  2. Top with club soda and stir gently to combine.
  3. Garnish with fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint, if desired.
  4. Enjoy your refreshing and tangy Easy Strawberry Shrub!

Cook’s Notes:

  • Sweetness Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet shrub, you can reduce the amount of sugar accordingly.
  • Vinegar Choice: While apple cider vinegar is the traditional choice for making shrubs, you can experiment with other types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, for different flavor profiles.
  • Storage: Store the bottled shrub in the refrigerator between uses to keep it fresh. It will continue to develop flavor over time, so don’t be afraid to let it age for a week or two before enjoying.

Variations:

  • Berry Blend: Mix things up by using a combination of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry shrub.
  • Herbal Infusions: Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as basil, mint, or thyme, to the strawberry mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Citrus Zest: Enhance the brightness of the shrub by adding the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange to the mixture before adding the vinegar.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, you can make the following adjustments to create a sugar-free version of this Easy Strawberry Shrub:

  • Sweetener: Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste as some sweeteners can be much sweeter than sugar.
  • Reduced Quantity: Since sugar is a key component in traditional shrub recipes, reducing or eliminating it altogether may alter the flavor profile of the shrub. Experiment with smaller batches to find the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is a shrub?

A shrub is a type of flavored vinegar syrup that is made by macerating fruit, sugar, and vinegar together. It can be used as a base for refreshing beverages or as a flavoring agent in cocktails and mocktails.

How long does the shrub last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade shrubs can last for several weeks to several months, depending on the ingredients used and how they are prepared. It’s best to use your senses to determine if the shrub is still good to consume, as signs of spoilage may include mold growth or off odors.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used to make shrubs. Simply thaw them before using and proceed with the recipe as directed.

With its bright and fruity flavor, this Easy Strawberry Shrub is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer all year round. Whether enjoyed on its own as a refreshing beverage or mixed into cocktails and mocktails for a creative twist, this versatile shrub is sure to delight your taste buds. Give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious homemade shrubs can be!