Shrubs, also known as drinking vinegars, have been gaining popularity as a refreshing and flavorful alternative to alcoholic beverages. These concentrated syrups originated in Colonial America as a way to preserve summer produce through the winter months. Made with a combination of fruit, vinegar, and sugar, shrubs offer a unique balance of bright acidity and sweetness that can be customized with various herbs, spices, and infusions.
One popular shrub recipe is the Celery and Salt Shrub, created by bartender Masahiro Urushido. This earthy and vegetal shrub uses celery as its base, along with sweet white balsamic vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Originally paired with vodka, this herbaceous shrub can also be enjoyed as a refreshing highball with a generous seltzer topper.
For a more vibrant option, try the Strawberry Chile Balsamic Shrub created by Jillian Vose of Charleston’s Hazel and Apple cocktail bar. This shrub combines the classic pairing of strawberries and balsamic vinegar with a kick of heat from dried chiles de árbol. The result is a deep maroon-colored shrub that balances sweet, sour, and smoky flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their drinks.
If you’re looking for a festive option, the Beet and Lemon Shrub is a great choice. Made with fresh beet juice, distilled white vinegar, lemon juice, and granulated sugar, this ruby-hued shrub offers a sweet-tart flavor profile that is perfect for brunch cocktails or aperitivo hour.
For those who enjoy the flavors of fall, the Pumpkin Spice Shrub is a must-try. This autumnal-inspired shrub combines pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, pumpkin spice, and a touch of salt. The result is a rich and silky shrub with a warming spice mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice. Try this shrub in a non-alcoholic Pumpkin Spice Shrub Spritz by topping it with soda water and garnishing with a cinnamon stick.
Whether you’re participating in Dry January or simply looking for a flavorful non-alcoholic beverage option, shrubs are a versatile and delicious choice. With a variety of fruit, herb, and spice combinations to explore, there’s a shrub recipe for every palate. So why not mix up a batch of shrub syrup and enjoy a refreshing and zesty drink anytime? Cheers to flavorful alternatives!
