A “shrub” is a non-alcoholic syrup made from fruit or berries, aromatics, raw apple cider vinegar, and most often sugar. I paid a pretty price for a big bucket of Raw Rocky Mountain Alpine Flower Honey at a farmers market last week and thought I would make a special shrub sweetened with honey rather than sugar! Adding two tablespoons to a big cup of cold bubbly water is refreshing and great for your digestive health. It is also alkalizing, detoxifies your liver and before a meal increases insulin sensitivity! The leftover mash of berries makes a great jam and is delicious stirred into overnight oats. It lasts well in the fridge in a sealed container for several weeks.
Ingredients:
Makes 5 cups
- 24 oz. or 3 cups of mixed raspberries and blackberries
- 2 cups of raw liquid honey (not creamed)
- 2 cups of raw apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil
In a large bowl combine the honey and the berries. With a fork or a large spoon, mash the berries and basil into the honey. Cover and let sit at room temperature overnight. You will wind up with honey infused with all of the deliciousness of herbs and berries!
Strain the mixture into a medium sized bowl. Mash gently with a spoon to try to exude as much of the liquid as possible. Reserve the mashed fruit to use as a jam.
Add the two cups of raw apple cider vinegar to the infused honey. Stir well to combine. Pour into mason jars and refrigerate for a few days to allow the flavours to mix and mellow.
To serve, combine 2 tablespoons of the shrub with 12 oz. of bubbly water over ice!
