Shrubs, also known as drinking vinegar, have been around since the colonial era. But this citrus version? It’s a modern twist that’ll make your taste buds dance.
What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can use any combination of citrus fruits – I love a mix of lemon, lime, and grapefruit for a zesty punch. The addition of herbs like rosemary or thyme adds depth and complexity that’ll have your guests asking for your secret.
The process is surprisingly simple, but it does require a bit of patience. As the fruit and sugar macerate, they create a syrup that’s then combined with vinegar. The result? A concentrated elixir that’s the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and fruity.
And speaking of perfect companions, this shrub adds a delightful zing when used as a marinade for seafood. It’s particularly amazing with Shrimp Francese, adding a bright note that complements the rich, buttery sauce.
What Is Spiced Citrus Shrub Cocktail?
A Spiced Citrus Shrub Cocktail is a flavorful drink made by combining a spiced citrus shrub syrup with alcohol, such as rum or gin, and other ingredients like soda water or fruit juice. The shrub syrup adds tangy and aromatic flavors from oranges, spices, sugar, and vinegar.
It’s like a zesty, fizzy, and refreshing concoction that tantalizes your taste buds with a balance of sweetness and tanginess. Perfect for sipping on a hot day or as a unique twist to your cocktail lineup, the Spiced Citrus Shrub Cocktail is sure to delight with its vibrant and complex flavors.
Zesty Spiced Citrus Shrub recipe
Equipment
- Skillet for toasting spices
- Large bowl for mixing ingredients
- Container for storing in the fridge
- Strainer for straining the mixture
- Sparkling water or club soda for serving
Ingredients
- 4 cloves, crushed
- 2 star anise, crush
- 1 tsp black peppercorns, crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick, crushed
- 3 cups of large oranges Scrubbed and roughly chopped.
- 1,1/2 cups cane sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, seeded
- 1/4-1/2 cup coconut vinegar
Instructions
- Crush cloves, star anise, peppercorns, and cinnamon stick in a skillet until fragrant.
- Combine toasted spices, chopped oranges, cane sugar, and seeded vanilla bean in a large bowl.
- Cover and let sit for up to a day on the countertop.
- Add coconut vinegar gradually, tasting until desired flavor is achieved.
- Strain the mixture into a container and store in the fridge.
- To serve, add the shrub syrup to sparkling water or club soda and adjust to taste.
Nutrition
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Custom Twists You Can Add to Spiced Citrus Shrub!
- Citrus Variations:
- Instead of using only oranges, try incorporating a mix of citrus fruits like grapefruits, lemons, or limes for a more complex citrus flavor profile.
- Spice Enhancements:
- Experiment with additional spices like cardamom pods, ginger slices, or a pinch of nutmeg to add layers of aromatic depth to the shrub.
- Sweetener Options:
- Swap cane sugar with alternative sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a different flavor twist. Adjust the quantity to taste.
- Vinegar Alternatives:
- If you don’t have coconut vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for unique flavor nuances.
- Herbal Infusions:
- Consider infusing the shrub with fresh herbs like mint leaves, basil, or rosemary during the resting period for added herbal notes.
- Alcohol Infusion:
- For a boozy twist, infuse the shrub with a splash of rum, gin, or vodka before serving. This adds complexity and a hint of spirit to the drink.
- Fruit Additions:
- Add diced fruits like strawberries, pineapple, or peaches to the shrub mixture for a fruity variation. Let them infuse along with the oranges for added flavor.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Instead of sparkling water or club soda, try mixing the shrub syrup into cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, or spritzers for unique and flavorful beverages.
Great Accompaniments for Your Spiced Citrus Shrub!
For the perfect accompaniments to your spiced citrus shrub, consider dishes that complement its bright, tangy flavors. Look for options that balance sweetness, spice, or savory notes. Fresh vegetables, seafood, and light, flavorful bites work wonderfully, enhancing the refreshing and zesty profile of the shrub.