Chokecherry Vinegar - Chokecherry Shrub

Submitted by mollypaul

"Shrubs, also called drinking vinegars, are restorative drinks from the Colonial days predating soda pops and sports drinks. Prior to the invention of refrigeration, a shrub syrup was a means of preserving fruit long past its picking. Shrubs were popular in Colonial America, mixed with cool water to provide a pick-me-up on hot summer days. A proper shrub has a flavor that's both tart and sweet, so it stimulates the appetite while quenching thirst. Try your chokecherry shrub over ice with club soda. Steeping time not included in preparation time.."

 

• Ready In: 24hrs 10mins
• Ingredients: 4
• Yields: 1 batch

ingredients

• 3 cups chokecherries
• 1 cup vinegar
• 1 cup water
• sugar

directions

1. Wash berries and mash in a glass bowl.
2. Combine vinegar and water.
3. Pour over berries (solution should cover berries).
4. Let stand 24 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Place in a large saucepan, and slowly bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Boil 5 minutes.
7. Strain through a jelly bag.
8. Do not squeeze bag.
9. For each cup juice, add 1 cup granulated sugar.
10. Bring to a boil.
11. Boil 2 minutes.
12. Remove from heat.
13. Allow to settle.
14. Bottle and refrigerate for up to 6 months, or pour into sterilized jars, seal and process for 10 minutes in a boiling water bath.
15. To Serve: Add to 2 - 4 tablespoons of concentrate on top of ice cubes in a glass. Fill with water, club soda, or sparkling water.

Reviews

[4sweeper]

My grandma used to make this. Thrilled to find a recipe. Thanks!

 

[Jane M.]

Simple to make with a tart and delicious result. It is the best, most non-fussy thing I have ever found to do with chokecherries. Try it out once and it will become a repeat exercise. Great with fresh chokecherries or frozen ones from the freezer.