Black Currant Shrub

Experience the bold, tart essence of summer with this vibrant Black Currant Shrub. This classic drinking vinegar offers a sophisticated balance of sweetness and acidity, transforming ripe black currants into a versatile syrup that is equally at home in a fancy cocktail or a simple glass of sparkling water.

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Shrubs, or drinking vinegars, have been a popular method for preserving fruit for centuries. By combining fresh currants with sugar and high-quality vinegar, you create a shelf-stable concentrate that captures the intense, dark berry flavor and deep purple hue of the black currants at their peak.

Ingredients

• Fruit: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen black currants, rinsed and stemmed
• Sugar: 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• Vinegar: 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar

Make crepes, pancakes, tortillas, and omelets evenly with quick heating and precise temperature control.

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Instructions

Step 1

In a bowl or jar, combine black currants and sugar. Stir well, lightly mashing the berries with a spoon or muddler to release their juices.

Step 2

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 24–48 hours. Stir occasionally during this time until the sugar has fully dissolved and the fruit juices are released.

Step 3

Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing firmly to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the remaining solids.

Step 4

Pour the resulting fruit syrup into a clean jar. Add the vinegar and stir well to combine.

Step 5

Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using, allowing the sharp vinegar and sweet fruit flavors to meld together.

Step 6

To serve, mix 1–2 tablespoons of the shrub with still or sparkling water, or use it as a base for cocktails. Adjust the ratio to your personal taste.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a crystal-clear shrub, consider straining the liquid twice to remove all tiny fruit particles. Ensure that your storage bottle is thoroughly cleaned to keep the shrub fresh for the full three-month storage period.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can customize the flavor by experimenting with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Choosing the right vinegar is also key; red wine vinegar provides a deeper, more robust character, while apple cider vinegar offers a milder, fruitier finish.

Serviervorschläge

This shrub is exceptionally refreshing when mixed with chilled sparkling water and a lemon twist. For a sophisticated cocktail, try adding a splash to gin or vodka topped with a sprig of fresh mint.

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With its striking color and complex taste, this Black Currant Shrub is a fantastic addition to your refrigerator. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the unique taste of black currants all year round.

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What is a shrub?

A shrub is a concentrated syrup made from fruit, sugar, and vinegar. Historically used as a way to preserve fruit harvests, shrubs have become popular as sophisticated mixers for cocktails and mocktails, offering a balance of sweet and tart flavors that elevate simple drinks.

→ How long does black currant shrub last?

Properly stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, black currant shrub will keep for up to 3 months. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, maintaining both flavor and food safety throughout this period.

→ What's the best vinegar to use?

Apple cider vinegar offers a milder, fruity sweetness that complements the black currants beautifully. Red wine vinegar provides deeper, more complex notes with a slightly sharper finish. Choose based on your flavor preference and intended use in drinks.

→ Can I use frozen black currants?

Absolutely. Frozen black currants work just as well as fresh and may even release their juices more readily during the maceration process. There's no need to thaw them beforehand—simply combine them with sugar as directed.

→ How should I serve black currant shrub?

Mix 1-2 tablespoons of shrub into a glass of still or sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage. It also shines in cocktails, adding complexity to gin, vodka, or bourbon drinks. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.

→ Can I substitute other sweeteners?

Honey or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for different flavor profiles. Honey adds floral notes, while maple syrup contributes warmth. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may dissolve more quickly and might slightly alter the final texture.