Print

Refreshing Homemade Strawberry Basil Shrub Mocktail

strawberry basil shrub mocktail - featured image

A tangy and sweet vinegar-based strawberry basil shrub syrup mixed with sparkling water to create a refreshing, non-alcoholic mocktail perfect for summer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1012 fresh basil leaves, washed and roughly torn
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (can substitute with honey or maple syrup)
  • ½ cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar (raw, unfiltered recommended)
  • Sparkling water, chilled, to serve
  • Ice cubes, for serving

Instructions

  1. Hull and slice 1 cup (150g) of fresh strawberries. Rinse and roughly tear 10-12 basil leaves. Place both in a mixing bowl.
  2. Pour ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar over the fruit and basil. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently crush the mixture to release juices and aromas without pureeing.
  3. Transfer the muddled mixture to a clean mason jar or airtight container. Add ½ cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar and stir gently to combine.
  4. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and vinegar to mellow.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, pressing gently to extract all syrup without forcing pulp through.
  6. To serve, fill a glass with ice. Add 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) of the shrub syrup, then top with about 8 ounces (240ml) of chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a slice of strawberry and enjoy.

Notes

If the shrub syrup tastes too tart, add more sugar and stir to dissolve, then chill again before serving. If too sweet, increase sparkling water ratio. The shrub syrup keeps up to two weeks refrigerated. Use firm, ripe strawberries for best flavor and clarity. Basil can be substituted with mint or tarragon if unavailable. For a quicker syrup, gently heat sugar, strawberries, and vinegar until sugar dissolves, then cool before adding basil.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shrub, basil shrub, mocktail, non-alcoholic drink, summer drink, vinegar syrup, refreshing beverage, homemade shrub