A way of preserving fruit after the harvest in Colonial times, sweet and tangy drinking vinegars are a fantastic way to enjoy the pure spirit of your favorite fruit any time of the year. Fresh herbs and whole spices will add another layer of flavor to your syrups, as will experimenting with different types of vinegar.
If you're intrigued by this old-timey drink that has made a resurgence over the past 5 years or so, I hope that you'll try it for yourself! I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
Head over to the Michigan Apples website to read my original post: Refreshing Apple Shrub Syrup Recipe! Or, scroll to the bottom of this post to get the recipe!
Intrigued by drinking vinegars? You might also want to try making this Peach-Rosemary Shrub Syrup!
More with Michigan Apples (click photos to go to individual posts):
Yield: 2 1/2 cups
Apple Shrub Syrup
prep time: 10 MINScook time: 72 hourtotal time: 72 hours and 10 mins
This apple shrub syrup (drinking vinegar) infused with mint and fennel is the perfect refresher on a hot day.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups shredded apples and any accumulated juice
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- leaves from 2 fresh mint sprigs
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, lightly crushed
- 2 cups (16 fluid ounces) white wine vinegar
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Divide the apples, sugar, mint, and fennel between 2 quart-sized jars; use a muddler (or a wooden spoon) to smash and smoosh everything together until the sugar has dissolved.
- Pour in the vinegar (half into each jar), put the lid on, and give it a shake. Store the jar in the fridge or in a cool, dark spot for 3-4 days, shaking gently once a day.
- Set a small strainer over another jar and strain the mixture into the clean jar; discard solids. At this point, the shrub is ready, but you can store in covered in the fridge or a cool, dark spot.
How to use your shrub:
- Stir together 1 part shrub syrup and 3-4 parts mineral water and pour over ice.
- Stir into lemonade or iced tea.
- Stir into sparkling wine or combine with booze to make a signature cocktail.
- Use as a flavor base in a vinaigrette.
- Use your favorite seasonal fruits and flavorings to make a syrup and mix with your favorite alcohol to make a signature cocktail for a party, bridal shower, or wedding!
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