Elderberry Shrub

Directions

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.