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Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Mocktail Recipe Easy Homemade Elderflower Tonic Drink

fresh strawberry rhubarb shrub mocktail - featured image

A vibrant and refreshing mocktail combining a homemade strawberry rhubarb shrub with floral elderflower tonic, perfect for warm weather and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 300g)
  • 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped (about 150g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (about 200g)
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar (240ml), raw and unfiltered
  • 1/2 cup filtered water (120ml)
  • Elderflower tonic water, chilled, about 1 cup (240ml) per serving
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon or lime wedges (optional, for a citrusy twist)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and chopped rhubarb with the granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat all the fruit. Cover and let sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the fruit softens, releasing its juices.
  2. Using the back of a spoon or a spatula, gently press the fruit to release as much liquid as possible. This juice forms the base of your shrub.
  3. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and filtered water. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
  4. Transfer the mixture into a clean glass jar or airtight container. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, ideally 48 hours, to let the flavors marry and mellow.
  5. After steeping, strain the shrub through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or jar. Press gently to extract all the liquid, leaving behind the fruit pulp and solids.
  6. To make the mocktail, fill a glass with ice. Pour 2 ounces (60ml) of the shrub over the ice, then top with 6 ounces (180ml) of chilled elderflower tonic water. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lemon or lime wedge. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

Let the shrub steep for at least 24 hours for best flavor; 48 hours is ideal. Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste after steeping. Use fresh, ripe fruit for best results. Chill elderflower tonic well before mixing to preserve fizz. For a party, prepare shrub in larger quantities and add tonic just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shrub, rhubarb shrub, elderflower tonic, mocktail, homemade shrub, non-alcoholic drink, summer drink, refreshing beverage