LIVE YUM AUTUMN APPLE SHRUB
New Live Yum Recipe!
Yes, shrubs are plants, but they are also vinegary syrups that may be paired with soda water or used in cocktails. The idea of a "shrub" was introduced hundreds of years ago as vinegar was sometimes used to preserve fruits before modern refrigeration. Shrubs were popular cocktails centuries ago around the globe, including in Colonial America, and recently, there has been a resurgence of popularity for these vinegar based drinks. We have quickly become enamored with the process of creating shrubs out of seasonal fruits and herbs. The final products, paired with soda waters and the occasional liquor, are incredibly refreshing. Pictured above is our Autumn Apple Shrub, which we paired with soda water and a locally produced liquor, Saint Lawrence Spirits' Downbound Gin, which is made using water from our beloved St. Lawrence River. We are beginning our Live Yum cocktail and mocktail test kitchen journey (yes, each beverage we make will be liquor-optional and comes without judgment!) and we hope you'll join us for the ride!
Note: For a completely non-alcoholic version, combine 8 oz soda water over ice with 1-2 oz. Autumn Apple Shrub. Stir, serve, and enjoy!
Shrub Syrup
3 cups fresh apple with skin (cubed)
1 sprig rosemary
1” nub of fresh ginger (sliced)
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 oz. gin (we like St. Lawrence Spirits Downbound Gin)
2-3 oz. soda water
Apple slice(s), ground cinnamon, and rosemary sprig (for garnish)
1. Prepare Shrub Syrup. Combine apple, rosemary, ginger, vinegar, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 20-30 minutes. (After about 5-10 minutes of simmering, remove saucepan from heat and mash apple mixture with a cast iron potato masher. Return to simmer for remaining time.) Remove from heat and cool completely to room temperature. Strain shrub liquid into sealable glass container. Place in refrigerator for at least one hour or overnight before using.
2. Combine 1 ½ oz. Shrub Syrup (or to taste) and gin. Shake vigorously over ice.
3. Pour shaken Shrub Syrup and gin mixture over ice in a highball glass. Top with soda water and stir.
4. Garnish with fresh apple slices dusted with cinnamon and a sprig of rosemary.
(Note: Shrub may be kept in the refrigerator in sealed container for one to two weeks.)