Elderberry Shrub

1. 1

   Wash and dry the elderberries, place them in a pint-size jar or non-reactive bowl, and lightly crush using a fork or potato masher.

2. 2

   Add vinegar and stir to combine.

3. 3

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, occasionally shaking the jar or stirring the contents of the bowl.

4. 4

   Give the mixture a good shake or stir and then strain using a fine-mesh strainer and/or cheesecloth.

5. 5

   Discard the solids.

6. 6

   Measure the liquid.

7. 7

   For every cup of liquid, use 1 cup of sugar.

8. 8

   Combine liquid and sugar in a saucepan.

9. 9

   Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

10. 10

    Boil for 5 minutes and remove from heat.

11. 11

    Let cool; bottle, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks (the longer it steeps, the more mellow the flavor).

12. 12

    To serve, mix with sparking water. Start with 1 part shrub to 6 parts sparkling water and adjust to taste. The syrup may also be mixed with plain water or used in cocktails.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.