Drinking a Dash of Vinegar: 10 Shrub Recipes for the Summer

updated May 25, 2023

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We’re talking all things preservation this week, so while you’re readying a batch of pickled vegetables why not mix a little of that vinegar into your next drink or cocktail as well? A roundup of shrewd shrubs to wet your palate await.

(Image credit: Emily Han)

Drinking vinegar is back in vogue and it’s not just because its distinct zing can curl your mustache. Mixing a tinge of vinegar into your drink or cocktail can add some complexity and savory overtones that may just have you coming back for more.

Try some of these recipes below and see if this shrub’s for you.

Shrubs and Switchels

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How To Make a Fruit Shrub Syrup

Making a shrub syrup at home is a fun way to preserve and play with seasonal fruit, and you can follow this template for practically any fruit you have on hand.

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Elderberry Shrub

This elderberry shrub is addictively good and stunning in color and flavor. While there is a sour note, it’s also sweet, fruity, and delightfully complex.

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Shrub-A-Dub-Dub (Sparkling Fruit Shrub)

Making a shrub allows you to preserve the freshness of seasonal fruits and veggies and a fun way to introduce a crisp bite to your glass without relying on citrus.

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Sangria Shrub Punch Recipe

A simple homemade grapefruit shrub is the base of this refreshing and spritzy pitcher cocktail.

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Ginger Switchel

Switchels usually contain cider vinegar and ginger and are lightly sweetened. Some recipes also included lemons.

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Turmeric Switchel

This bright new riff on the classic switchel features turmeric, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent.