What is a shrub?

Shrub is made with infused apple cider vinegar, and typically diluted in water. Recipes for shrubs vary greatly they can be made with sweetened fruit juice, fruit, honey or sugar. Historically they were also used to preserve abundant fruit harvests. In 17th and 18th century England, a shrub was the name for a fruit liqueur mixed with brandy before serving. During colonial times in America, shrubs were a mix of vinegar syrup, spirits, and water. When something is called a 'shrub' it is most likely referring to a sweetened vinegar syrup, also known as drinking vinegars. These vinegars make amazing cocktails and mocktails, and these tangy beverages are often just called 'shrubs' themselves. 

Common Name: Cranberry

Botanical Name (Latin/Scientific): Vaccinium macrocarpon

Plant Part and Cut: Whole Fruit

Common Name: Apple

Botanical Name (Latin/Scientific): Malus domestica

Plant Part and Cut: peeled and diced

Common Name: Ginger

Botanical Name (Latin/Scientific): Zingiber officiale

Plant Part and Cut: fresh, minced

Methods & Ingredients:

Specific preparation:

· Amount of ingredient #1 1 cup of frozen cranberries

· Amount of ingredient #2 1 medium peeled and sliced apple

· Amount of ingredient #3 1 teaspoon of fresh minced ginger

· Amount of ingredient #4 1 cup of vodka

· Amount of ingredient #5 1 cup of sugar

· Amount of ingredient #6 1 cup of red wine vinegar

Steps:

Step 1 – Pour vodka and vinegar into pan and set to low

Step 2 – Add sugar and stir until dissolved

Step 3 – Add remaining ingredients

Step 4 – Reduced mixture by half

Step 5 - Strain into jar