Basic Citrus Shrub
Preserved cooking illustration

Basic Citrus Shrub

Basic Citrus Shrub

Basic Citrus Shrub

INGREDIENTS

Citrus fruit of choice (grapefruit, lemons, oranges, etc.)

1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar, to taste

1/2 to 3/4 cup of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, to taste

Remove citrus fruit zest with a peeler. Be sure to avoid removing the tough white pith. In a non-reactive bowl, build a citrus oleo-saccharum (or "oily sugar"). Combine the strips of zest with sugar. Using either a cocktail muddler or a sturdy wooden spoon, really put some elbow grease into pressing the zest into the sugar. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least an hour. Your oleo-saccharum is ready to use!

Remove the peels, reserving the oily sugar. Juice the citrus fruit. Add citrus juice, vinegar (start with 1/2 cup and add more, to taste) and oily sugar to a jar. Cover and shake jar to combine. Refrigerate for at least 3 days for flavors to meld.

Shrub will keep for 6 months or more.

Please use these recipes and information as guidance for your home fermenting endeavors. This is not medical advice nor should it replace the advice of a health care professional. Fermented foods often have a sour but clean aroma and flavor. Never consume anything that smells or tastes unpleasant. Preserved does not take responsibility for your own success and/or failures in fermentation. We have made our best effort to share up-to-date and safe techniques. However, the risks of cooking and fermenting are inherent. You are responsible for the results of your efforts and the safety of your own food in your particular location and kitchen. Thank you for your interest in preserving a closer connection to your food.