Save Experience the bold, tangy-sweet essence of ripe black currants with this vibrant homemade shrub. Also known as a drinking vinegar, a shrub is a classic method of preserving the intense flavors of summer fruit in a concentrated syrup that adds a zesty kick to any beverage.
Save This Black Currant Shrub uses a cold-maceration process, allowing the sugar to slowly draw out the juices without heat, preserving the fruit's natural brightness. Once combined with vinegar, it transforms into a complex elixir that evolves over time.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen black currants, rinsed and stemmed
- Sugar: 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- Vinegar: 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine fruit and sugar
- In a bowl or jar, combine black currants and sugar. Stir well, lightly mashing the berries to release juices.
- Step 2: Macerate
- Cover and refrigerate for 24–48 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the fruit juices are released.
- Step 3: Strain
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
- Step 4: Add vinegar
- Pour the fruit syrup into a clean jar. Add the vinegar and stir to combine.
- Step 5: Infuse
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using, allowing flavors to meld.
- Step 6: Serve
- To serve, mix 1–2 tablespoons shrub with still or sparkling water, or use as a cocktail mixer. Adjust to taste.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an exceptionally clear and smooth shrub, consider straining the liquid twice to remove all tiny fruit solids. Once prepared, this shrub can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, where its flavor will continue to mellow and develop.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can customize the flavor profile by changing the base ingredients. Using red wine vinegar yields a deeper, more robust flavor, while apple cider vinegar provides a milder, fruitier finish. For a different type of sweetness, try replacing the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Serviervorschläge
The most refreshing way to enjoy this shrub is to mix 1 to 2 tablespoons with chilled sparkling water over ice. It also serves as a fantastic base for creative cocktails or a zesty addition to a simple soda. Always adjust the ratio to suit your personal preference for tartness.
Save Whether you are looking for a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage or a unique ingredient for your home bar, this Black Currant Shrub is a versatile addition to your pantry. Its striking purple color and balanced acidity make every glass feel like a special occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is a shrub?
A shrub is a sweetened fruit-infused vinegar that has been used for centuries as a beverage mixer and preserve. The combination creates a tangy-sweet concentrate perfect for drinks.
- → Which vinegar works best?
Apple cider vinegar offers a mild, fruity profile that complements black currants beautifully. Red wine vinegar provides deeper, more robust flavors. Both work wonderfully depending on your preference.
- → How long does it keep?
Properly stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, black currant shrub maintains quality for up to three months. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative.
- → Can I use frozen currants?
Frozen black currants work perfectly for shrubs. Thaw slightly before combining with sugar, and they'll release their juices just as well as fresh berries.
- → What's the serving ratio?
Mix 1-2 tablespoons of shrub per cup of still or sparkling water. Adjust to taste—some prefer more tartness, others a sweeter profile. For cocktails, use similarly.
- → Can I substitute other sweeteners?
Honey or maple syrup work well as alternatives to granulated sugar. Honey adds floral notes, while maple contributes earthy sweetness. Dissolve thoroughly during maceration.