If you’re new to Liquid Cultures Feature Wednesday, you’re in for a real treat. Inspired by a local company and in honour of Dry January week, I’m bringing you a delicious, home made Winter Shrub recipe that I know you’ll love. Unfamiliar with shrubs? Well you’ll want to continue reading to find out!
First and foremost, let me explain what a shrub is. Shrubs are a sweetened vinegar-based infusion. That’s it. And as you can imagine the possibilities are limitless. It can vary from the types of vinegars that are used, to the fruits, herbs, vegetables that you are infused. You may be thinking, WHY would I want to drink vinegar? Well there’s a ton of great reasons and it truly is delicious if you know what you’re doing. I also go into a ton of details in my ‘What the Shrub‘ write up, if you want to learn some more!
You may also be wondering, how this ties into Dry January and my Wednesday Feature. Well the story goes back to the first company I ever worked with which was Toronto’s own ‘False Ox‘. I was just getting introduced to shrubs when these guys came along, and I’ve been one of their biggest fan girls since. This infusion and cocktail was completely inspired by them, which is why I wanted to give them a personal shout out for Liquid Culture’s Wednesday feature, so thank you.
Something I didn’t mention that you may have missed is the fact that this is NON-ALCOHOLIC. Many shrubs are enjoyed by topping up with Soda, but I decided to make an non-alcoholic julep instead! This infusion is simple and extremely delicious. It’s a blend of Blood Oranges, with fresh Jamaican ginger and apple cider. For details on this recipe, make sure to follow here.
Now I opened up the fridge and found some fresh apple cider, so I thought why not! My mint was also wilting away, so I brought out my half decent Basil. That’s right folks. I don’t always just go out of my way to get these products. I will work with whatever I have in the fridge, because the reality is…you will too.
So without further ado, I bring you the best, and possibly strangest, non-alcoholic beverage you have ever tasted! Cheers!
Blood Orange, Ginger and Basil Julep Shrub
A delicious non-alcoholic beverage that can be enjoyed for Dry January. This particular recipe uses a Blood Orange and Ginger Shrub that is to die for!
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 oz Blood Orange and Ginger Shrub
- 2 oz Fresh Apple Cider
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Squeezed
- 4 Basil Leaves
Instructions
In a julep container, add all the ingredients and top up with crushed ice.
Swizzle to get it to the top. Best way is to fill the mug half way and stir, before adding the rest of the crushed ice.
Recipe Notes
For details on the Blood Orange and Ginger Shrub Infusion, follow the link attached.
