Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Apple slices and fresh ginger, for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Pitcher or large jar
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, honey, grated ginger, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, cloves, and sea salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or large jar.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
6. To serve, fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add 1/2 cup of the apple-ginger shrub.
7. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
8. Garnish with apple slices and fresh ginger, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey.
- Ground ginger can be used instead of fresh ginger.
- Ground cinnamon can be used instead of a cinnamon stick.
Variations:
- Add a splash of rum or bourbon for a boozy twist.
- Use sparkling water instead of ice cubes for a fizzy drink.
- Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a high-quality apple cider for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking by adding more honey or apple cider vinegar.
- Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the apple-ginger shrub in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
The apple-ginger shrub can be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently heat it up in a saucepan over low heat.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the apple-ginger shrub in a tall glass with ice and garnish with apple slices and fresh ginger.
Garnishes:
Apple slices and fresh ginger
Pairings:
This drink pairs well with spicy or savory dishes, such as roasted chicken or grilled pork.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
If the shrub is too sweet, add more apple cider vinegar to balance it out. If it's too tart, add more honey.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean and sanitized equipment when making the shrub. Store it in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after a week.
Food history:
Shrubs are a type of fruit-infused vinegar drink that originated in colonial America. They were often used as a way to preserve fruit and add flavor to water.
Flavor profiles:
The apple-ginger shrub has a sweet and tangy flavor with a spicy kick from the ginger.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the apple-ginger shrub as a refreshing drink on a hot day or as a festive cocktail at a holiday party.
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