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Pumpkin Shrub

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I have a healthy obsession with shrubs. Not something you find in the garden! Shrubs are also called drinking vinegars and can be the basis of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic libations. I've made lots of different summer shrubs with berries and stone fruit, so I decided to play with a pumpkin version. And, it turns out, it's like autumn in a glass!


The best part about shrubs is that it is a very simple process. It's just a matter of mixing the ingredients together and waiting for the flavors to infuse. I started this week's recipe thinking that I would roast a whole pumpkin to make my puree.


But there's nothing more simple than using pre-made pumpkin puree!

Ingredients
  • one 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree
  • 3 cups organic granulated sugar
  • 3 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1" to 1-1/2" knob fresh ginger
  • 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground all-spice


Procedure
Grate fresh ginger and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients, including the fresh ginger. Pour into quart jars with lids and refrigerate for, at least, 2 days.

I made two different drinks with this pumpkin shrub.


Sparkling Pumpkin Sipper (non-alcoholic): equal parts shrub and sparkling water.


Spiced Pumpkin Rum Sipper (alcoholic): equal parts shrub and rum. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with edible blossoms; I used organic chamomile.
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Comments

  1. UnknownSeptember 24, 2017 at 4:43 AM

    I love the sound of these drinks. I've always wanted to try shrubs and now here is the perfect way!

    ReplyDelete
  2. A Day in the Life on the FarmSeptember 24, 2017 at 5:13 AM

    We are having unseasonably hot weather here in MI. Either of these drinks will be perfect poolside.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Liz That Skinny Chick Can BakeSeptember 24, 2017 at 8:51 AM

    I've only had sips of a cocktail with a rhubarb shrub. Your pumpkin shrub and cocktails sound terrific!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Eileen (Baking Sense)September 24, 2017 at 9:28 AM

    I have really got to try making a shrub. I've never tasted them and I love anything with a vinegar tang. This looks like a good one to start with.

    ReplyDelete
  5. laura dembowskiSeptember 24, 2017 at 10:29 AM

    This is by far the most unique recipe today and I love it! Perfect for all kinds of fall beverages.

    ReplyDelete

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