- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries are ideal; they provide the vibrant flavor and color to your beverage.
- Simple Syrup: A key ingredient that balances sweetness with tartness, enhancing the natural flavors of the cranberries.
- Water: Use filtered water for a clearer, cleaner base in your shrub beverage.
- Lemon Zest (Optional): Adding lemon zest can enhance the citrusy notes, making your drink more refreshing and aromatic.
- Fresh Mint Leaves (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor and freshness. Use around 8-10 leaves depending on how minty you prefer it to be.
- Ice Cubes: To chill and dilute the mixture slightly, ensuring a perfect balance in every sip.
Keywords:
- Cranberry shrub
- Beverage ingredients
- Simple syrup
- Fresh cranberries
- Water for beverages
- Lemon zest for flavor
- Mint leaves for aroma
Steps
### Cranberry Shrub Beverages: A Refreshing Summer Drink
#### Introduction to Cranberry Shrub
Cranberry shrubs are a delightful way to enjoy the tartness of cranberries with a touch of sweetness. This traditional beverage is perfect for sipping on hot summer days or serving as an elegant accompaniment at any gathering.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 cloves
- A cinnamon stick (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
#### Equipment:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Funnel (optional)
- Clean glass bottles or jars
### Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cranberry Shrub
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
- Rinse the dried cranberries under cold water.
- Measure out 2 cups of sugar and have your other ingredients ready.
2. **Make the Simple Syrup:**
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar.
- Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. **Add Aromatics:**
- Add bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon stick (if using), and dried cranberries to the syrup mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
4. **Strain the Mixture:**
- Remove the mixture from the heat and use a fine mesh strainer to strain out the solids.
- You can press on the cranberries gently to extract more juice if desired.
5. **Cool Down:**
- Allow the syrup to cool completely before storing it in clean glass bottles or jars.
6. **Bottle the Cranberry Shrub:**
- Once cooled, pour the liquid into sterilized bottles using a funnel if you have one.
- Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
7. **Serve Your Cranberry Shrub Drink:**
- To serve, simply mix 1-2 tablespoons of cranberry shrub with sparkling water or your choice of non-alcoholic beverage like club soda, kombucha, or even lemon-lime seltzer.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
#### Tips and Variations:
- **For a Sparkling Twist:** Add a splash of vodka or gin to the cranberry shrub before serving for a grown-up version.
- **Fruit Flavors:** Experiment by adding other dried fruits like cherries, raspberries, or pomegranate seeds for unique flavors.
- **Sweetness Level:** Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Cranberries are naturally tart, so you may want more sweetness.
#### Conclusion
Cranberry shrubs are not only easy to make but also offer a delightful way to enjoy fresh cranberry flavor year-round. Perfect for hosting or simply enjoying at home, this drink is both refreshing and flavorful. Give it a try today and see how it can enhance your summer gatherings!