Meet the Strawberry and Herb Shrub: a vibrant, spirited syrup that captures summer in a jar! This punchy concoction brings together the juicy sweetness of strawberries, the garden-fresh lift of mint and basil, and a gentle splash of tart apple cider vinegar. It’s the ultimate kitchen multitasker—swirl it into sparkling water, jazz up cocktails, or drizzle over salads for an instant flavor boost. With its ruby hue and refreshing, complex taste, the Strawberry and Herb Shrub is a recipe you’ll want on repeat all year long.

Strawberry and Herb Shrub Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

How to Make Strawberry and Herb Shrub

Step 1: Macerate the Fruit and Herbs

Start by placing the chopped strawberries, sugar, chopped mint, and chopped basil into a non-reactive bowl (think glass, ceramic, or stainless steel—anything that won’t react with the vinegar later). Give everything a thorough stir so the sugar and herbs are well distributed. Cover tightly and pop the bowl into the refrigerator for 24 hours—this is where the magic happens! The sugar draws out the strawberry juices, infusing the herbs along the way and creating a naturally sweet, fragrant syrup.

Step 2: Strain the Mixture

After your patient wait, it’s time to separate the liquid gold from the solids. Set a fine mesh sieve or a few layers of cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jar, and pour in the strawberry mixture. Press down on the solids with a spoon to extract every last drop—you want all that fruity, herby syrup! Discard or compost the leftover pulp, or get creative and stir it into yogurt or oatmeal for a bonus treat.

Step 3: Add the Vinegar

Now comes the “shrub” moment: pour in one cup of apple cider vinegar and stir until fully combined. At this point, the Strawberry and Herb Shrub smells wonderfully fruit-forward but also bracing—don’t worry, time will mellow the sharpness and marry all those flavors. Transfer to a sealable jar or bottle, making sure it’s spotlessly clean.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Mingle

Seal up your jar and return it to the refrigerator for at least three days. This brief hibernation lets the flavors harmonize, smoothing out the tart vinegar and blending the strawberry and herb notes into something greater than the sum of its parts. When you can’t stand the anticipation any longer, give the shrub a shake and taste—adjust with more sugar or vinegar if desired.

Step 5: Use and Enjoy!

This final step is where the Strawberry and Herb Shrub really shines. Pour a generous splash into iced sparkling water, craft a show-stopping cocktail, or experiment with a drizzle over fruit salad. Shake well before each use, and savor the way each herbal-sweet-tart note plays on your palate.

How to Serve Strawberry and Herb Shrub

Garnishes

Take your presentation up a notch by garnishing drinks made with your Strawberry and Herb Shrub. A sprig of fresh mint or basil, a slice of lime, or a fan of fresh strawberry on the rim makes any glass look inviting and feel special. Edible flowers also add charm!

Side Dishes

The nuanced acidity of Strawberry and Herb Shrub makes it a fantastic accompaniment to light, summery fare. Serve alongside cheese boards, charcuterie, or crisp garden salads. Its refreshing zing also works wonders with grilled chicken or fish, and it can dress up even simple club soda for a palate-cleansing mocktail.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow-factor at brunch or parties, set up a “shrub bar” with chilled sparkling water, ice, and an array of garnishes. You can also swirl the shrub into vinaigrettes for salads, brush it over fresh peaches, or even blend a spoonful into yogurt. Guests will love discovering all the ways your homemade Strawberry and Herb Shrub can shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Homemade Strawberry and Herb Shrub keeps exceptionally well. Store it in a tightly sealed glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a month—just be sure to give it a quick shake before each use, as settling may occur.

Freezing

If you’d like to make your shrub last even longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the shrub into ice cube trays and freeze; once solid, store the cubes in a freezer-safe bag. Drop a cube or two into sparkling water or cocktails for instant chill and flavor.

Reheating

Since Strawberry and Herb Shrub is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you’re using it in a warm recipe—like glazing roasted veggies or fruit—simply add it at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the berries first and drain off any excess liquid before chopping and using them as directed. The result will be just as vibrant and delicious as with peak-season fresh strawberries.

Which herbs work best if I want to change things up?

You can swap in other soft herbs like thyme, lemon balm, or even rosemary for a unique twist. Each herb will bring its own personality to the Strawberry and Herb Shrub, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

How do I make my shrub sweeter or less tart?

The balance is totally up to you! Start by following the recipe, then, after the resting period, taste and add more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for extra tang, stirring until dissolved and well blended.

Is there an alcohol-free way to enjoy this shrub?

Definitely! Simply add a few tablespoons of shrub to sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing, alcohol-free sipper. It’s also delightful as a mixer for lemonade or iced tea on a warm day.

How long does homemade shrub last, and how can I tell if it’s gone bad?

If kept cold in the refrigerator, your Strawberry and Herb Shrub will last for up to a month. Look for changes in smell, color, or the presence of mold to spot if it’s spoiled—otherwise, enjoy it to the last drop!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Strawberry and Herb Shrub recipe brings a touch of homemade joy and creativity to your table. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or jazzing up a quiet glass of water, don’t be surprised when this becomes your go-to way to celebrate the flavors of summer—no matter the season. Happy shrub-making!

Strawberry and Herb Shrub Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 6 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 days including resting
Yield: About 2 cups 1x
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

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Description

A refreshing and tangy strawberry and herb shrub recipe that’s perfect for adding a zing to cocktails, sparkling water, or salad dressings. This versatile vinegar syrup is a delightful mix of fresh strawberries, mint, basil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a non-reactive bowl, mix strawberries, sugar, mint, and basil. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
Strain Mixture: After 24 hours, strain through a sieve, pressing to extract liquid. Add apple cider vinegar.
Rest and Mellow: Seal the jar and refrigerate for 3 days before using.
Enjoy: Use as a mixer for cocktails, water, or dressings.