We know vinegars - especially balsamic vinegars - are perfect for salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and much more. Flavor-infused vinegars, especially those with real fruit juices, add a pop of sweetness to a variety of dishes.
But did you know that you can also incorporate your favorite vinegar flavors into a refreshing, light beverage? No, we’re not talking about taking shots of balsamic vinegar, although that could be an option, such as with apple cider vinegar. But what about taking some flavorful, fruit-infused balsamic vinegars and creating a refreshing beverage– perhaps even turn it into a cocktail?
Enter: the shrub.
Here, we’re sharing all about the “shrub,” or vinegar-based beverage, and ways you can mix one up for yourself!
What is a Shrub?
A shrub (the beverage, not the leafy plants in your yard) is a light, refreshing beverage with very simple ingredients. All you need is a syrup made from a fruit-infused balsamic vinegar and sparkling water. To turn it into a simple cocktail, just add in sparkling wine or a spirit like gin or vodka.
How Do You Make a Shrub?
The magic of the shrub comes from the ingredients to make the syrup. While creating the shrub takes a bit of legwork, it’s certainly worth it when you sip that refreshing, fruity beverage on a warm day.
The syrup, the core of a shrub, is made up of vinegar, sugar and fruit. These three ingredients harmoniously blend together to create a balanced fruity flavor that’s not overly tart nor overly sweet. This shrub mixture will also keep in the fridge, so you can continue to enjoy this refreshing drink.
There are two ways to make a shrub, both with their own benefits. The hot method is the quickest. You make a simple syrup and simmer your fresh fruit in it. Then add in vinegar and simmer. Strain the fruit, and your shrub is good to go!
On the other hand, the cold method requires more time but may bring about a richer fruit flavor. In this method, fruit is tossed with sugar and set out for a couple of days. Then, the juicy fruit mixture is combined with an equal amount of vinegar. Adjust vinegar amount as needed.
Typically, shrubs do best with a ratio of 1:1:1 for vinegar, fruit, and sugar. For the hot method, start with 1 pound of fruit, 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup vinegar. If you’re taking the cold process, start with 1 pound fruit, 2 cups sugar, 2 cups vinegar.
To put your beverage together, start with a glass of ice. Pour in a splash of your fruity, delicious shrub, and finish it off with sparkling water. Turn it into a cocktail with some booze or use sparkling wine instead.
What Kind of Vinegar Can I Use in a Shrub?
While each ingredient in a shrub is important, we’re most excited about the possibilities with the added vinegar. Because shrubs are so versatile and can complement a lot of different flavors, the possibilities are endless. Remember that a key component of the shrub is fresh fruit, so you’ll want to pick a vinegar that pairs well with sweet fruit.
Fruity balsamic vinegars like raspberry, West Michigan blueberry, cranberry pear, peach, and many others can be a perfect addition that brings in another fruity element. To highlight more of the fresh fruit flavors, opt for a 12 Year Premium White balsamic vinegar or the 18 Year Traditional balsamic vinegar. You can even try experimenting with adding herbs, either as a separate add-in or through a flavor-infused balsamic vinegar.
Shrub Flavor Inspiration
Ready to whip up your own shrub to enjoy? Check out these recipes to get some inspiration!
Strawberry Pineapple Iced Tea Shrub
Made with Iron Fish Honey vinegar, this shrub balances the sweet fruity flavors with a refreshing iced team.
Cranberry Orange Shrub with Rosemary
A perfect example of combining fruity flavors with rich herbs, this shrub elevates the flavor of fresh fruit, using Cara Cara Vanilla balsamic vinegar.
Raspberry Basil Shrub
Using Cranberry Pear balsamic, this fruit and herb beverage is perfect for a warm day.
Start with Vinegar
Get going on creating your own refreshing shrub beverage. But first, make sure you’ve got the best balsamic vinegar. Shop online or in one of our four store locations to discover the balsamic that can transform your shrub flavor.