This may just be the most seasonally perfect shrub we’ve ever sipped on. Not only is it delicious, it’s also deeply healing. Ginger has been shown to help reduce the risk of bacterial and viral infections, while honey is a natural antibiotic, coating your throat in a protective layer that prevents bacteria from sneaking in.
Gather the ingredients below and get ready to make it a regular in your libation repertoire this (cold-and-flu) season.
INGREDIENTS
4 ripe pears
1 2-inch piece of fresh ginger
½ cup honey
⅓ to ½ cup high-quality light vinegar (Recommended: Tart Lavender or California Champagne Vinegar)
Seltzer water
Fresh pear slices for garnish
DIRECTIONS
- Roughly chop the pear. Peel and slice the ginger.
- Combine the chopped pears, sliced ginger, and honey in a glass container, stirring well.
- Seal the container and let it sit at room temperature for 2 days, shaking well after the first day.
- After 2 days, strain the macerated mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, using a spoon to press down on the pear and ginger solids to extract as much flavor as possible. Discard the solids.
- Gradually add the vinegar to the strained liquid. Start with ⅓ cup and taste. Add more if desired for a slightly tangier flavor. The vinegar should complement the sweetness of the honey and pears.
- To serve, fill a glass with ice. Pour 1-2 ounces of the shrub and top off with seltzer. Garnish with fresh pear slices. Enjoy!
