Red Meat Allergy Friendly Classic Apple Shrub
This tangy, spiced apple shrub is the kind of homemade pantry gem that makes every drink feel a little more special. Fresh diced apples slowly macerate in sugar until they release a gorgeous, syrupy juice, then warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger deepen the flavor over a second rest in the fridge. A splash of apple cider vinegar ties it all together with that signature bright, slightly tart edge that makes a shrub so refreshing and complex. The whole process is completely plant-based and free from any animal proteins, so there's zero concern about hidden meat-derived ingredients or cross-contact — just fruit, spice, and pantry staples. Stirred into sparkling water over ice, it's an elegant, crowd-pleasing sipper that works for any occasion. Make a batch on the weekend and you'll have a ready-to-go drink base in the fridge for up to three months.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 2 medium apples (about 12 oz), cored and finely diced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
For serving
- sparkling water, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the diced apples and granulated sugar in a medium bowl and stir well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, until the sugar has fully dissolved into the apple juices and a syrupy liquid has pooled at the bottom of the bowl.
- 2
Add the apple cider vinegar, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and ground ginger to the bowl and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for another 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
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