Lavender-Plum Shrub: A Summer Cocktail with a Floral Twist

Hello Friends - welcome to our new cocktail recipe series.

Our mission to delight your senses continues as we bring you yet another stunning recipe to elevate your food and drink experiences. Today, we are reviving a classic and adorning it with a delightful floral twist – the Lavender-Plum Shrub cocktail.

As London-based food alchemists, we thrive on the blend of tradition and innovation. We've turned to the nostalgic charm of shrubs - a tangy, fruity, vinegar-based drink that has made a comeback as mixologists revive old-fashioned cocktails. Our version marries the sweet robustness of red plums with the aromatic allure of lavender, rounded off with a hint of vanilla.

Here's how you can recreate this delight at home:

Ingredients (UK measurements):

• 8 red plums, chopped
• 150g granulated sugar
• 165g packed light brown sugar
• 2 (2.5 cm) fresh culinary lavender sprigs
• 1 vanilla pod, split
• 350ml apple cider vinegar
• 525ml bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1.4 litres soda water
• Lavender sprigs and plum slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss together the chopped red plums, sugars, lavender sprigs, and split vanilla pod. Seal the bowl tightly, and let it stand at room temperature for two days.

2. Remove the lavender sprigs and vanilla pod, stir in the apple cider vinegar, then cover and chill for 24 hours. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh into a pitcher, discarding the fruit.

3. To serve, pour 60ml of the syrup over ice in a glass and stir in 45ml bourbon or rye whiskey. Top up with 120ml club soda, garnish with a sprig of lavender and a plum slice, and enjoy!

Whether you're hosting a summer garden party or looking for a unique mixer for your home bar, our Lavender-Plum Shrub cocktail is a delightful choice. We hope it brings a moment of joy and refreshment to your day, just as it has to ours.

As we continue to push boundaries and create new, delightful experiences, stay tuned for more such creative recipes inspired by the diversity of London's ever-evolving food scene.

Till then, keep savouring and enjoying the delightful journey that food is!

Yours delightfully, The Delight Project Team