Xanthan Gum Free Classic Pineapple Shrub
Bright, tangy, and deeply tropical, this pineapple shrub is a drinking vinegar concentrate that transforms a simple glass of sparkling water into something genuinely special. Fresh pineapple is coaxed with sugar over gentle heat until it releases all its sweet, fragrant juice, then balanced with apple cider vinegar and a pinch of kosher salt for that signature sweet-tart complexity. The whole thing comes together with just four pantry-friendly ingredients — no thickeners, stabilizers, or additives of any kind, which makes it a naturally clean choice for anyone avoiding gum-based ingredients. Many store-bought shrubs and flavored syrups sneak in xanthan gum or similar agents to improve texture and shelf stability, so making your own is the surest way to keep things pure. After a 24-hour rest in the fridge, the flavors meld into a concentrate that's bold, aromatic, and incredibly versatile. Splash it over ice with sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail, or use it as a cocktail mixer — either way, it keeps for up to four weeks so you can enjoy it all month long.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into ½-inch chunks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
For serving
- sparkling water, for serving
Instructions
- 1
Combine the pineapple chunks and sugar in a medium saucepan. Stir to coat the fruit, then let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10 minutes until the sugar begins to dissolve and the pineapple releases some juice.
- 2
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture just comes to a gentle simmer, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately — do not boil vigorously.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!