I’ll never forget the first time I tried a shrub cocktail. It was a scorching summer day, and I needed something refreshing yet bold.
That’s when the Spiced Citrus Shrub Cocktail stole the show—combining tangy citrus, warm spices, and a surprising vinegar twist that’s incredibly satisfying.
What makes this cocktail stand out is its versatility. You can swap in any citrus fruits you have, and the spiced vinegar base makes it just as delicious with or without alcohol.
It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience. The natural acidity aids digestion and offers a fun way to boost your fruit intake, making it as healthy as it is flavorful.
Shrubs are gaining popularity for their perfect blend of nostalgia and creativity, offering a refreshing alternative to overly sweet drinks. It’s a trend worth sipping on.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- Easy to Batch: Make it ahead of time, and you’ll have a ready-to-pour drink for the next few weeks.
- Endlessly Customizable: You can mix and match citrus fruits or adjust the level of sweetness to fit your mood. It’s super flexible!
- Perfect for All Seasons: While it’s amazing for summer, the warm spices make it a cozy option even in the cooler months.
- A Refreshing Alternative: The vinegar base provides a tangy edge without overpowering sweetness, making it both light and bold.
- Healthier Than You’d Think: With less sugar and a boost of citrus, this cocktail is not only flavorful but supports digestion too.
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
These Citrusy Recipes Are Waiting for You to Try!
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.
