We love the bright tang of a citrus shrub. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour and it adds a welcome zing to our beverage repertoire. This centuries-old technique uses fruit sugar and vinegar to create a lively infusion that’s great on its own or in mixed drinks
Citrus Shrub Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (we can substitute white wine vinegar if preferred)
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Stir sugar and water until hot | Approximately 2 min |
| Cool mixture thoroughly | Approximately 15 min |
| Refrigerate shrub | 3 to 5 days |
Steps
- Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat. Pour in the apple cider vinegar. Stir well to balance the sweet and tart elements.
- Add the orange juice. Then add the lemon juice. Stir to merge the flavors.
- Grate the orange zest. Then grate the lemon zest. Stir both into the mixture.
- Transfer mixture to a clean jar. Allow it to cool completely.
- Seal the jar securely. Keep it in the refrigerator for at least three days to let the citrus flavors deepen and the shrub develop its bright personality.
Tools And Equipment
We gather the right items to measure and combine each vibrant ingredient for our citrus shrub. Below are the essentials that help us maintain accuracy and efficiency.
Must-Have Utensils
- Measuring cups (1-cup and half-cup)
- Measuring spoons (for sugar and vinegar)
- Medium saucepan for dissolving sugar
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
- Fine-mesh strainer to remove pulp
Optional Supplies
- Glass jar or swing-top bottle for storing the finished shrub
- Funnel to avoid spills during transfer
| Container | Volume |
|---|---|
| Mason Jar | 16 ounces |
| Swing-Top Bottle | 12 ounces |
| Airtight Glass Jug | 20 ounces |
Ingredients
We combine fresh citrus and natural sweeteners for a tangy base. Our precise measurements guarantee a bright flavor in every sip.
Citrus And Sweeteners
In this table we show each of our essential components:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Orange zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Orange juice | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 cup |
We rely on these items to create a bold infusion. We make sure to use fresh fruit and top-quality vinegar for the best result.
Directions
- Place 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a medium saucepan. Warm the mixture on low heat. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove the pan from heat. Add 1 tablespoon orange zest and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Stir gently to release the zesty aromas.
- Pour 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar into the saucepan. Add 1/2 cup orange juice and 1/2 cup lemon juice. Stir thoroughly until everything is fully combined.
- Transfer the liquid to an airtight container. We prefer a glass jar or a swing-top bottle to preserve the vibrant flavors. Seal the container securely.
- Refrigerate the mixture for three to five days. Swirl or gently shake the container once a day to encourage an even infusion. The flavors will deepen with each passing day.
- Strain the citrus shrub through a fine-mesh strainer. Discard the pulp and zest for a smoother consistency. Store the finished shrub in a sealed jar or bottle.
| Resting Time | Flavor Result |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 days | Mild citrus essence |
| 3 to 5 days | Bright balanced taste |
| 6 to 7 days | Bold tanginess |
Serving And Storage Tips
We like to blend two tablespoons of our citrus shrub into plain or sparkling water for a tart and lightly sweet refresher. We also enjoy stirring a splash of this bold infusion into cocktails or mocktails for extra brightness. A fresh sprig of mint or a slice of citrus adds finishing flair.
We store our citrus shrub in an airtight container to maintain peak flavor. We keep it well chilled and away from direct sunlight. A stable temperature preserves freshness and taste.
| Storage Method | Temperature Range | Approximate Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight jar in refrigerator | 35 to 40°F | 3 to 6 months |
| Well-sealed bottle in cool pantry | 50 to 60°F | 1 to 2 months |
| Original container in a dark cupboard | 65 to 70°F | 1 week |
We swirl or shake the citrus shrub gently before use. Then we can measure out just what we need for each serving. This simple step keeps our citrus shrub smooth and easy to blend.
Conclusion
Our citrus shrub adds a bold burst of flavor to any drink. Its bright tang elevates everything from simple soda water to creative cocktails and mocktails. Whether we’re hosting a gathering or simply refreshing ourselves at home we can count on its zesty sweetness and easy preparation. By bottling this vibrant infusion we give our beverages a fun upgrade that excites the palate and keeps guests impressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a citrus shrub?
A citrus shrub is a tangy-sweet concentrate made by combining fresh citrus juice, sugar, and vinegar. This traditional infusion adds bright flavor to drinks and can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails, mocktails, and sparkling water. Its balance of sweet, sour, and zesty notes makes it a favorite for anyone seeking a refreshing beverage twist.
How do you make a basic citrus shrub?
Simply heat sugar and water until dissolved, then mix in apple cider vinegar, orange juice, lemon juice, and citrus zest. Allow the mixture to cool and refrigerate it for three to five days. This resting period deepens the flavors, resulting in a tasty, versatile infusion perfect for drinks of all kinds.
Which utensils are needed?
You’ll need measuring cups, measuring spoons, a medium saucepan, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir. A fine-mesh strainer helps remove zest for a smoother consistency. Optional supplies include a funnel for spill-free transferring and a sealable jar or bottle for convenient storage and serving.
How long should the shrub chill?
Refrigerate your citrus shrub for three to five days, allowing the vinegar to draw out bright flavors from the citrus. If you prefer a milder taste, stick to three days. For a deeper, tangier essence, keep it chilled longer. Taste test along the way and select the resting time that matches your flavor preference.
Why use fresh citrus and high-quality vinegar?
Fresh citrus provides vibrant zest and lively juice, while premium vinegars offer a smoother tang and pure taste. These ingredients ensure that your shrub is crisp, bold, and full of natural character. Quality really matters here—using top-notch produce and vinegar helps maintain delightful flavors that beautifully elevate your favorite beverages.
How do you store a citrus shrub?
Keep your finished citrus shrub in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for 3 to 6 months, retaining optimal flavor and brightness the entire time. If fridge space is limited, store it in a cool pantry or dark cupboard instead, but remember to chill it once opened for best results.
What are the best serving suggestions?
Blend two tablespoons of the shrub with plain or sparkling water for instant refreshment, or add a citrusy kick to cocktails and mocktails. Swirl or shake gently before use for an even mix. Experiment with different drinks—this zesty, vinegar-based concentrate can add a flavorful lift to many recipes and beverages.