Strawberry, Ginger & Thyme Shrub

A perky and refreshing way to welcome spring. Feel free to use frozen strawberries in place of fresh ones. Any leftover syrup will keep in the fridge for at least a week.

150g strawberries

4cm piece fresh ginger, peeled

and finely chopped

3 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves

picked

¾ cup caster sugar

1 cup apple cider vinegar

To serve: sparkling water thyme sprigs, to garnish

Put the strawberries, ginger, thyme leaves and sugar in a wide-mouthed glass jar. Mash to a pulp (or use a stick blender). Cover loosely and leave in a warm place for 24 hours. The next day, add the vinegar and stir well. Cover and store in the fridge for 3-5 days until it tastes pleasantly tart.

To serve, fill a glass with ice. Add 2 tablespoons of the strawberry syrup, and top with sparkling or water. Garnish with thyme leaves and serve. Makes 375ml (enough for 6-10 drinks)