I love making rhubarb shrub when I want a bright and refreshing drink mixer with a balance of sweet and tangy flavor. The rhubarb creates a vibrant fruity syrup that blends beautifully with vinegar for a bold and refreshing finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is simple, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. The combination of tart rhubarb, sugar, and vinegar creates a refreshing syrup that works perfectly in sparkling water, mocktails, or iced drinks.
I also enjoy how the flavors deepen as the shrub sits in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh rhubarb
Sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Lemon juice
Fresh ginger optional
Strawberries optional
Sparkling water for serving
Directions
I start by washing and chopping the rhubarb into small pieces.
I place the rhubarb in a bowl and mix it with sugar. Then I cover it and let it sit for several hours or overnight so the rhubarb releases its juices.
I strain the mixture, pressing gently to collect all the flavorful syrup.
I stir apple cider vinegar and lemon juice into the syrup until fully combined.
If I want extra flavor, I add fresh ginger or strawberries while the rhubarb rests with the sugar.
I pour the shrub into a clean glass bottle or jar and refrigerate it before serving.
To serve, I mix a small amount of shrub with sparkling water and ice.
Servings and Timing
This recipe usually makes about 2 cups of shrub concentrate.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 8 to 12 hours
Total time: about 8 to 12 hours
Variations
I sometimes add strawberries for a sweeter fruit flavor.
I also like using red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a deeper taste.
For a spiced version, I add cinnamon sticks or fresh ginger.
If I want a lighter drink, I mix the shrub with extra sparkling water and fresh mint.
Storage/Reheating
I store rhubarb shrub in a sealed glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
I serve it cold and do not reheat it because it is meant to be refreshing and chilled.
FAQs
What is a shrub drink?
I think of a shrub as a sweet and tangy fruit syrup made with vinegar that is usually mixed into drinks.
What does rhubarb shrub taste like?
It tastes bright, tart, sweet, and slightly tangy from the vinegar.
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Yes, I can use frozen rhubarb after thawing it slightly.
How do I serve rhubarb shrub?
I usually mix it with sparkling water, ice, and sometimes fresh fruit or herbs.
Does rhubarb shrub need refrigeration?
Yes, I always keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
Rhubarb shrub is one of my favorite refreshing homemade mixers because it is fruity, tangy, and easy to customize. I love how the rhubarb and vinegar create a bold flavor that turns simple sparkling water into something bright and special.
