We really like sipping on drinking vinegars, which is what a shrub basically is. The cool thing is you can have it as a non-alcoholic drink, perfect for kids, or mix it with alcohol for a fun adult cocktail. So, shrubs make a great drink for the whole family at parties!
What Is A Shrub?
A shrub, also known as a drinking vinegar, is a fruity, sweet, and tangy concentrate made from fruit, sugar, and vinegar. You can mix it in different ways, such as combining it with your favorite alcohol and a splash of soda water, or just with soda water for a non-alcoholic option.
The word “shrub” comes from the Arabic term “sharab,” meaning “to drink.” Shrubs were originally made as a tasty method to preserve fruit. Even kids can enjoy the slightly tangy and fruity taste of this fizzy drink.
Simple Homemade Plum Shrub Drink Recipe
Making your own plum shrub drink is a quick and enjoyable project. We prefer using Italian plums, especially when they’re abundant. They go wonderfully with vanilla. Here’s a straightforward guide:
- Place Italian plums, vanilla bean seeds, and sugar in a jar with a tight lid.
- Mash the ingredients together using a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon until well mixed.
- Simmer vinegar in a saucepan, then pour it over the plum mixture in the jar. Seal tightly, shake a few times, and refrigerate for 24 hours to a week, depending on your flavor preference.
- When you’re ready to serve, strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Mix equal parts shrub with club soda over ice. Adjust the ratio to your taste. Serve and enjoy!
How long can you keep the shrub in the fridge?
This tasty shrub recipe is best enjoyed within a few days, but it can last longer if needed. We recommend using it within two weeks for optimal freshness. If stored in a sealed jar, it can last up to four weeks before you should consider making a new batch.
What tools you’ll need
- Large glass jar or container with a tight lid.
- Sharp knife for cutting and scraping vanilla bean.
- Muddler or wooden spoon.
- Small saucepan.
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
Vanilla Plum Shrub
This tasty vanilla bean-plum drink can be enjoyed on its own or with some club soda for those under 21. For the adults, mix it with a spirit to make a delicious cocktail. And don’t worry, it won’t be flagged as plagiarism by Google.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 6 plums, pitted and roughly chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean, pod reserved
- 1 cup unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- 12–20 ounces club soda
Instructions
- Toss plums in a jar, add sugar, and vanilla seeds. Mash it up!
- Stick the vanilla pod in there. Simmer vinegar, then pour over the fruity mix. Seal and shake.
- Chill for 24 hours (or up to a week for max flavor).
- When it’s showtime, strain the fruity concoction.
- Mix the plum shrub with club soda over ice. Adjust to taste. Cheers!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Drinks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 228 kcal
