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–+ servings
Blackberry shrub mocktail.

Blackberry Shrub Recipe (An Easy Homemade Drinking Vinegar)

Learn how to make a refreshing blackberry shrub recipe with fresh blackberries, lemon zest, mint, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This old-fashioned drinking vinegar is delicious in sparkling water, lemonade, cocktails, and more.
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Course: Condiment, Drinks
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Fermenting Time: 9 days
Total Time: 9 days 15 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 6kcal
Author: Carolyn Thomas
Cost: varies

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Citrus Zester
  • Potato Masher or sturdy wooden spoon
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer
  • Whisk
  • Funnel
  • Quart-Sized Mason Jar

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups blackberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 whole lemon zest
  • 10 mint leaves
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  • Step 1: Macerate the Fruit - Combine the blackberries, sugar, lemon zest, and mint leaves in a mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or sturdy spoon, gently crush the berries until they've released much of their juice and everything is well combined.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 days. During this time, the sugar will draw the juices from the berries, creating a rich, flavorful syrup.
  • Step 2: Strain the Syrup - After two days, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Press firmly on the berries with the back of a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. If you notice sugar still clinging to the berry solids, strain the liquid through again until most of the sugar has dissolved into the syrup (it may take a few times).
  • Step 3: Add the Vinegar - Whisk the apple cider vinegar into the strained berry syrup until fully combined. Using a funnel, pour the finished mixture into a clean quart jar and secure it with a lid.
  • Refrigerate for about one week to allow the flavors to mellow and develop before serving.

Notes

How to Serve Blackberry Shrub
Blackberry shrub is highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
For a refreshing summer drink, stir about 1 tablespoon of shrub into a glass of sparkling water. Taste and add more if you'd like a stronger flavor.
It also pairs beautifully with:
  • Homemade lemonade
  • Iced tea
  • Cocktails or mocktails
  • Sparkling mineral water
More Ways to Use Blackberry Shrub
This syrup isn't just for drinks.
Try using it:
  • Whisked into homemade vinaigrettes
  • Drizzled over vanilla ice cream
  • Spooned over pound cake
  • Mixed into yogurt
  • Added to fresh fruit salads
  • As a flavorful addition to marinades
Once you start experimenting, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy this bright, tangy syrup all summer long.
Storage Tips
Keep your finished blackberry shrub tightly sealed in the refrigerator.
Because it's made with sugar and apple cider vinegar, it keeps well under refrigeration. For the best flavor, use it within several weeks.
Always use a clean spoon when serving to help maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 2Tablespoons | Calories: 6kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.002g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 0.1mg | Potassium: 22mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 29IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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