Fire cider is a traditional immune tonic that can be used to boost immunity, support digestion and help ward off winter colds/flus/viral infections. Fire Cider is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and as it’s a great decongestant; it’s commonly used in the colder months.
You can take a spoonful of fire cider every day (diluted in water) or at the first sign of a cold, however it should be consumed in moderation. Some people prefer to use it as vinegar on a salad or drizzled over vegetables; either way it’s a fun and easy-to-make tonic to add to your pantry!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup organic ginger root, grated
- ½ cup freshly grated horseradish root
- 1 medium organic onion, chopped
- 10 cloves organic garlic, crushed or chopped
- 2 organic jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 1 organic lemon, zest and juice
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary leaves
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder, or 2 tablespoons freshly grated organic turmeric root
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder (optional)
- organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup organic raw honey, or to taste
Method:
- Add ginger, horseradish, onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, lemon zest and juice, rosemary, turmeric and cayenne powder (optional) into quart-sized jar.
- Pour apple cider vinegar in the jar until all the ingredients are fully covered and the vinegar reaches the top of the jar. You want to be sure all the ingredients are covered to prevent spoilage.
- Use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, or use a plastic lid if you have one. Shake jar to combine all the ingredients and store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks, remembering to shake the jar a few seconds every day.
- After one month, use a mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the solids, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze out as much of the liquid as you can. The solids can be used in a stir-fry or you can compost/discard them.
- Add honey to the liquid and stir until incorporated. Taste your fire cider and add more honey if needed until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Store in a sealed container in your fridge.
- Use as/when needed. Enjoy!