Cherry shrub drink
A shrub is a delicious fruit and vinegar syrup that makes the most refreshing drink on a hot day. We use cherries with vanilla and thyme, but you can play with fruits that would work well in jam (strawberries, blueberries, plums, nectarines) as well as fresh herbs (basil, mint, thyme, rosemary) and spices (cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla). Have fun and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 500 g cherries stems removed
- 1 cup DYC white wine vinegar
- 3 sprigs Superb Herb thyme
- 1 vanilla bean sliced open lengthwise
Instructions
- Bring sugar and water to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir to dissolve sugar, then add cherries, vinegar, thyme and vanilla. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the liquid turns cherry red, take off the heat and let cool.
- Strain (keeping the fruit to serve in glasses or over muesli, yoghurt, or ice cream), then pour liquid into a jug.
- Serve over ice with soda water, in a cocktail, or paired with your favourite spirit. Add in the reserved cherries, thyme and vanilla pods for extra flair (optional). Store cherry shrub in the fridge.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Cherries are such an indulgent treat they deserved to be paired with the best ingredients like a beautiful South Island venison rack.
Made this a few times now. I love it! Pour a tablespoon (approximately) in a champagne flute (including the reserved stewed cherries), top with sparkling wine.