Fermented Strawberry Basil Shrub

Sipping on a refreshing and zesty beverage during the warm months can add a burst of flavor to your day. One unique and delightful drink to try is a Fermented Strawberry Basil Shrub. This ancient concoction is a perfect blend of fruity sweetness from fresh strawberries, a hint of herby goodness from basil, and a tangy kick from the fermentation process. Whether enjoyed on its own over ice or mixed with sparkling water, this shrub is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a treat for yourself.
Fermented Strawberry Basil Shrub
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cups sugar
– 2 cups apple cider vinegar
– Sparkling water, for serving
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the chopped strawberries, basil leaves, and sugar. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the strawberries and basil, releasing their juices and flavors.
2. Cover the jar with a clean towel or cheesecloth and secure with a rubber band. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the strawberries, basil, and sugar to macerate and create a syrupy base.
3. After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Discard the solids, and transfer the strawberry-basil syrup back into the jar.
5. Add the apple cider vinegar to the jar and stir well to combine.
6. Cover the jar again with the towel or cheesecloth and let it sit at room temperature for 3 to 5 days, stirring the mixture once a day.
7. Taste the shrub after 3 days to check the level of fermentation. If it’s tangy enough for your liking, you can move on to the next step. If not, continue fermenting until desired tanginess is achieved.
8. Once the shrub has reached your preferred level of tanginess, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle or jar. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to a month.
9. To serve, fill a glass with ice and pour 2-3 tablespoons of the Fermented Strawberry Basil Shrub over the ice. Top off with sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sliced strawberry, and enjoy your homemade, flavorful shrub!
Fermented beverages like this Strawberry Basil Shrub not only offer a burst of taste but also provide a natural source of gut-friendly probiotics. Experiment with different herb and fruit combinations to create your signature shrub flavors to serve as a delicious mocktail or cocktail base. Cheers to a delightful and healthy beverage that is sure to impress friends and family alike!