Rhubarb Shrub Recipe

Looking for a bright, tangy way to use spring rhubarb? This rhubarb shrub recipe—also known as a drinking vinegar—is one of the easiest ways to bottle that tart flavor into a versatile syrup. Whether you’re mixing cocktails, making mocktails, or just looking to liven up your pantry staples, this shrub is a sweet-sour powerhouse.

From its humble roots in Colonial America to its current status as a modern kitchen staple, the shrub has come a long way. This rhubarb shrub recipe is an easy and delightful way to incorporate spring flavors into your food and drink repertoire. With its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and tangy, this shrub promises to make your beverages and dishes sing with flavor. Whether you're a cocktail lover, a culinary enthusiast, or someone looking to try something new and exciting, this rhubarb shrub recipe will surely impress.

What is a Shrub?

A shrub is a concentrated syrup made from fruit, vinegar, and sugar. Also called drinking vinegar, it dates back to Colonial America when it was used to preserve fruit before refrigeration. Today, shrubs are making a comeback in cocktails, mocktails, and even savory dishes.

Why Make a Rhubarb Shrub?

• A quick way to preserve seasonal rhubarb
• Perfect balance of tart, sweet, and tangy
• Adds depth to drinks, marinades, and dressings
• Long fridge life (up to 6 months!)

This recipe is endlessly adaptable and easy to batch for spring gifting or weekly happy hours.

Ingredients

Rhubarb

• Rhubarb: Fresh, chopped
• Sugar: Granulated or try honey or maple for a twist
• Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is my go-to, but red or white wine vinegar also work

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Clean bottle or jar for storage

Instructions

How to Make Rhubarb Shrub

Store in the fridge for at least 48 hours before using. Keeps for several weeks.

Combine chopped rhubarb and sugar in a saucepan. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out juices.

Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves and rhubarb softens.

Remove from heat. Stir in vinegar.

Strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing to extract juices.

Pour the strained liquid and refrigerate for at least 48 hours before using.

Cool to room temperature, then transfer to a clean jar or bottle.

Remove from heat and add vinegar, stirring well. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing the solids to extract all juices. Let it sit on the counter until it comes to room temperature.

How to Use a Rhubarb Shrub

How to Use Rhubarb Shrub

This syrup adds acidity and brightness to a wide range of recipes.

In Drinks:

• Mix with sparkling water or tonic for a non-alcoholic refresher
• Add to cocktails with gin, vodka, rum, or tequila
• Blend with citrus juice and club soda for a quick mocktail

In Cooking:

• Use in vinaigrettes with olive oil and mustard
• Add to marinades for grilled chicken or pork
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables or fresh fruit

Recipe Variations

• Add herbs or spices: Try ginger, basil, rosemary, or a cinnamon stick during cooking
• Mix in other fruits: Strawberries, raspberries, or citrus peels add complexity
• Use different vinegars: Red wine vinegar for depth, or balsamic for a sweeter edge

Storage

Store in the refrigerator in a sealed glass jar or bottle. The shrub will keep for 4 to 6 weeks and often longer due to the natural preservation of the vinegar.

Recipe Serving Suggestions

This rhubarb shrub recipe can be the basis for many delicious drinks and dishes.

1. Cocktails and Mocktails: Incorporate this shrub into an array of cocktails — the sharpness of the vinegar cuts through the booze, creating a balanced and layered beverage. For gin or vodka-based cocktails, a splash of this rhubarb shrub can enliven the drink. For a non-alcoholic version, mix the shrub with club soda and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a refreshing and sophisticated mocktail.
2. Culinary Dishes: Use the rhubarb shrub as a secret ingredient in your kitchen. It can be mixed into a tangy salad dressing, combined with mustard and honey for a vibrant marinade, or reduced into a glaze for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It could also be drizzled over fresh fruit or ice cream for a unique and delicious dessert.

Rhubarb Shrub FAQ