Orange Brandy Shrub
Description
This Orange Brandy Shrub is a refreshing, aromatic beverage that captures the bright essence of fresh oranges. By steeping citrus rinds and juice with sugar and brandy, you create a complex, smooth syrup that balances sweet and tart notes. Perfect for sipping over ice, mixing into cocktails, or diluting with sparkling water for a sophisticated summer drink. The process requires patience, as the flavors meld and deepen over several days, resulting in a unique, homemade libation that feels both historic and modern. It is an excellent addition to your pantry for entertaining or personal enjoyment.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large non-metal container with a lid, combine the fresh orange juice, granulated sugar, and brandy. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Add the coarsely chopped orange rinds to the container. Cover tightly and shake well to distribute the ingredients.
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Let the mixture stand at room temperature for 24 hours.
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After 24 hours, strain the mixture into a large pitcher, discarding the orange rinds.
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Rinse the original container thoroughly. Return the strained liquid to the clean container.
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Cover the container and let it stand for approximately 4 days. Shake the container 4 times a day during this period to ensure even infusion.
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Once the infusion is complete, pour the shrub into clean bottles. Store in a cool, dark place.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 54.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 13.2g5%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 10.1g
- Protein 0.8g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Steep Time: The total steeping time is approximately 5 days (24 hours initial + 4 days secondary).
Storage: Store the finished shrub in a cool, dark place. Due to the alcohol content, it has a long shelf life.
Serving Suggestion: Dilute with sparkling water or club soda over ice for a refreshing non-alcoholic boost, or use as a mixer in cocktails.
Container: Use a non-metal container (glass or food-grade plastic) to prevent reactions with the acidic citrus.
History: The shrub got its name from 'shurb', the Arabic word for drink. This is a traditional 19th-century style preparation.