Did you know you can use jam instead of simple syrup in your cocktails?
Cocktail Curator Tracy Javier used blueberry jam as a replacement for simple syrup to make a Blueberry Mojito. And y’all, it was perfect. Jam can be a little sweeter and contains more acid than simple syrup, so you may want to play around with the amount of jam and lemon or lime juice you use. But it’s a great, fruity addition to your cocktails.
Give it a try and report back!
What’s a shrub you ask? Simply stated, it’s a vinegar-based simple syrup infused with fruit. It’s similar to a simple syrup just with vinegar added, giving it a more acidic taste. They’re a perfect way to spruce up your cocktail, especially to your own liking. You can use various herbs, spices, fruits and vinegars to make flavor combinations you love most. Store them in the refrigerator and grab whenever you’re ready for your favorite cocktail.
Now let me be honest with you. They’re an acquired taste. But once you actually get used to the taste, you’ll enjoy drinking them whether in a cocktail or mocktail. And they’re very easy to make. There are two methods to make shrubs, one hot and one cold. I like using the hot method because it’s quicker. But many will say that the cold method is the way to make a true shrub. But ain’t nobody got time for that. So the hot method it is.
I made a peach lavender cocktail shrub for a whiskey cocktail and it was delicious! Here’s how I did it:
To make the peach lavender shrub:
Bring one cup of water to a boil.
Add one cup of sugar and one cup of apple cider vinegar to the pan.
Add slices from one peach and 3 tbsp. lavender (or to taste). Turn the heat down and make sure the peach slices release flavors into the mixture by gently smashing them.
Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Strain the mixture and bottle into a mason jar.
For a delicious whiskey cocktail:
Add 1 oz. peach lavender shrub.
Add 1.5 oz. whiskey.
Top with club soda or the sparkling water of your choice for spritzy taste.
Trust me, this is delicious! And leave out the whiskey if you want a refreshing mocktail. Try your favorite flavors in a shrub today and see what you come up with!
