CALIFORNIA GROWN
Have you ever wondered what is a shrub? You might think of something that grows in the ground, but you’d be wrong! Imagine a tangy, sweet syrup that bursts with the vibrant flavor of fresh grapes and a hint of zesty vinegar. When mixed with sparkling water, it transforms into a refreshing grape soda, effervescent and bright, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
So, what is a shrub? Simply put, a shrub is a concentrated syrup made from fresh fruit, sugar, and vinegar. This concoction has a fascinating history as a preservative and a delightful addition to drinks. The addition of vinegar not only preserves the fruit but also gives the syrup a unique tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the fruit. The result? A versatile fruit syrup that can be mixed with club soda for non-alcoholic drinks or added to cocktails for a sophisticated twist.
Shrubs, or drinking vinegar, have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Originating in the Middle East, these tangy elixirs spread to Europe and colonial America. In colonial America, shrubs were made from seasonal fruit, sugar, and vinegar to create fruit syrups that could be mixed with water or spirits. This method preserved fresh fruit flavors and provided a refreshing drink, embodying a delicious blend of practicality and indulgence.
In the spirit of no-waste cooking, shrubs are the perfect preservation method for when you have an abundance of fruit but aren’t sure what to do with it. By transforming surplus fruit into a tangy, sweet syrup with vinegar and sugar, shrubs not only extend the life of your produce but also create versatile, flavorful additions to drinks and recipes. This method turns potential food waste into a sippable, homemade treat.
Before we dive into how to make this shrub, let’s get to know our star ingredient: table grapes. Grown with care under the California sun, table grapes are the red, green, and purple varieties you love to snack on. Unlike their wine grape cousins, table grapes are larger, crisper, and packed with refreshing flavor.
The choice of vinegar is crucial in shrub-making. For this grape shrub recipe, we’re using sparkling wine vinegar, also referred to as champagne vinegar. This type of vinegar is light and effervescent with a delicate acidity that doesn’t overpower the sweetness of the grapes. Its flavor profile is slightly fruity and elegant, making it the perfect match for a grape shrub.
Once you have your shrub, turning it into a refreshing grape soda is a breeze. Simply mix the shrub with club soda or sparkling water to taste. For a fun twist, serve it over ice and garnish with a few fresh grapes on cocktail picks! This delicious drink is both refreshing and full of the rich flavors of CA GROWN table grapes.
Shrubs aren’t just for sodas. They make excellent bases for cocktails, adding complexity to your favorite mixed drinks. They’re also fantastic in non-alcoholic mocktails, perfect for those looking for delicious drinks without the booze.
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