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Blueberry Drinking Vinegar (Shrub)
About the Recipe

A vibrant drinking vinegar that captures the essence of fresh blueberries. This versatile shrub combines the sweetness of summer berries with the bright acidity of vinegar to create a complex syrup perfect for cocktails, sodas, and culinary applications.

Prep Time:

Cook Time:

Serves:

Level:

Hard

Ingredients

Ingredients:

- 2 cups fresh blueberries

- 2 cups granulated sugar

- 2 cups live vinegar


Optional Aromatics (choose 1-2):

- 2 sprigs fresh thyme

- 1 strip lemon peel (no white pith)

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 3 black peppercorns


Equipment Needed:

- Large glass or ceramic bowl

- Fine-mesh strainer

- Cheesecloth

- Clean glass bottles or jars for storage

- Wooden spoon or muddler

- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Maceration Time: 24-48 hours
- Total Time: 2-3 days

Approximately 2 cups of shrub syrup

Preparation

1. Prepare the Fruit

  - Gently wash and dry the blueberries

  - Remove any stems or damaged berries

  - Lightly crush the berries to release their juices


2. Cold Process Method

  - In a large glass or ceramic bowl, combine crushed blueberries and sugar

  - Stir well to combine

  - Cover with a clean cloth

  - Let stand at room temperature for 24-48 hours, stirring occasionally

  - The sugar will draw out the juice from the berries, creating a syrup


3. Add Vinegar

  - After maceration, add the live vinegar

  - Add any chosen aromatics

  - Stir well to dissolve any remaining sugar

  - Cover and let stand at room temperature for 5-7 days in a dark place


4. Strain and Bottle

  - Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth

  - Strain the mixture into a clean bowl

  - Press gently on solids to extract all liquid

  - Pour into clean glass bottles

  - Label with date and contents



Serving Suggestions


Non-Alcoholic Applications:

- Mix 1 oz shrub with 6-8 oz sparkling water for a refreshing soda

- Add to iced tea or lemonade

- Use as a unique salad dressing base

- Drizzle over fresh fruit or ice cream


Cocktail Applications:

- Add 1 oz to prosecco or champagne

- Mix with bourbon or gin for a complex cocktail

- Use in place of citrus in traditional cocktail recipes



Storage:

- Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months

- The flavors will continue to develop and mellow over time



Tips for Success:

- Use ripe, fresh blueberries for the best flavor

- Don't squeeze the cheesecloth too aggressively when straining to avoid cloudiness

- Taste and adjust sweetness before bottling

- Start with small amounts when mixing drinks, as the flavor is concentrated



Variations:

- Wild blueberries can be substituted for a more intense flavor

- Try mixing with other berries like blackberries or raspberries

- Adjust sugar levels to taste



Note: This shrub will have a bright purple color and intense flavor when first made. The color will deepen and the flavors will mellow and become more complex over time.

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