Strawberry Mint Shrub

Makes enough for about 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup thinly chopped, very ripe strawberries
• 1/2 packed fresh mint leaves + a couple of sprigs of fresh mint
• 3/4 cup raw organic apple cider vinegar (use one with live mother cultures like Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime/lemon juice
• 1/2 cup raw unrefined cane sugar
• 1 bottle of sparkling water
• A few ice cubes if desired
• Plus about 2 weeks of patience!

Method:

Step 1

• In a wide-mouthed mason jar, put the mint in and massage with fingers to release juice. Add strawberries and slightly crush.
• Add the apple cider vinegar, close the jar and shake thoroughly
• Remove the lid and loosely cover the jar with a cheese cloth and leave it untouched overnight for about 12 hours

Step 2

• After 12 hours, screw the lid on tightly and shake thoroughly again
• Let it to ferment at room temperature for 7 days, shaking the jar vigorously every day
• After 7 days, strain out the strawberries and mint, pressing with the back of a spoon or fingers to get the last bit of flavor

Step 3

• Stir in the lemon juice and sugar into the strained liquid
• Add the fresh mint sprigs, close with a lid and shake vigorously for 10 seconds
• Refrigerate for 7 days, again shaking the jar every day
• After 7 days, the shrub is ready to use and will last up to 4 months in the refrigerator

Step 4

• Mix 2 Tbsp of shrub with about 6 oz of sparkling water. Add a few ice cubes if desired. Enjoy (adjust the proportions of the shrub to sparkling water to your liking after a sip)