Herb Infused Cocktail ~ Fig Thyme Shrub

 

The end of summer is rapidly approaching, and we do not want to let go just yet.  To help ring out the summer and celebrate the start of fall, our cocktail this month is a Fig Thyme Shrub.  I know what you are thinking, what the heck is a shrub.  Well shrub is basically a mixture of sugar, vinegar and fruit that sets overnight to create a “drinking vinegar.”  Now, do not walk away just yet! These flavors together will make a sweet and tangy drink that will satisfy your taste buds and make you come back for more. 

 

The combination of sweet and tangy will have your taste buds seeking out more of this delicious drink.  With fresh figs from our tree and the hint of thyme, you are sure to enjoy this cocktail.  Keeping summer alive a little longer with just a hint of fall flavors is a great way to end the day when that cool summer breeze hits off the back deck.

 

The set up does take a little longer since the flavors have to meld together at least overnight in the fridge.  This drink is worth the wait.  Find some delicious figs and add them together with your vinegar, sugar and thyme and let it sit overnight in the fridge. That way when you arrive home from work, your cocktail is almost ready to go.  Below are the exact details of how to put your drink together.

 

Fig Thyme Shrub

To make the shrub:

2 cups of diced fresh figs

¾ cup sugar

1 cup apple cider vinegar

10 sprigs of fresh thyme

 

Cocktail:

1 ½ ounces vodka

½ ounce fresh squeezed lime

1 ½ ounces fig thyme shrub

2 ounce club soda/sparkling water

Fig and thyme for garnish

 

Make the shrub in a plastic or glass bowl, cover and refrigerate overnight.  Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer and discard the thyme and figs when finished.  To make the cocktail add crushed ice to a glass.  Add the vodka, lime and shrub; stir to combine.  Add the club soda or sparking water, stir again.  Garnish with fig and thyme!

 

You can keep any of the extra shrub in your fridge for up to two weeks.  If you want to make this a mocktail, include more club soda or sparkling water to replace the vodka.  As always drink responsibly and have a designated driver. Cheers!