Fire Cider

Fire Cider is a folk remedy that has been passed down generations to keep us healthy and resilient. It's a delicious, zesty beverage infused with herbs to naturally support your immunity, digestion, and other important health processes. Though we provide you with a basic recipe here, feel free to experiment with other beneficial herbs as you see fit! Since this is a folk remedy, you can really let your creative juices flow with this. 

Some additions you may wish to use are Thyme, Rosehips, Star Anise, Schisandra Berries, Astragalus, Parsley , Burdock, Oregano, Peppercorns, Beet Root Powder, Habanero Powder, Bird's Eye Chili Powder, Whole Chili Peppers, Orange, Grapefruit, Lime peels/or juice. 

Fire Cider Recipe (Adapted from Mountain Rose Herbs)

Ingredients

1 medium organic onion, chopped

10 cloves of organic garlic, crushed or chopped

2 organic jalapeno peppers, chopped

Zest and juice from 1 organic lemon

1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root (or organic ginger root powder)

1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root (or organic horseradish powder)

1 Tbsp. organic turmeric powder

1/4 tsp. organic cayenne powder

2 Tbsp. of dried rosemary leaves

organic apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup of raw local honey, or to taste

Directions

Prepare your roots, fruits, and herbs and +place them in a quart-sized glass jar. If you've never grated fresh horseradish, be prepared for a powerful sinus-opening experience!

Pour the apple cider vinegar in the jar until all of the ingredients are covered and the vinegar reaches the jar's top.

Use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, or a plastic lid if you have one. Shake well.

Store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks and remember to shake daily.

Afterwards, use cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze as much of the liquidy goodness as you can from the pulp while straining.

Next comes the honey. Add and stir until incorporated.

Taste your cider and add more honey until you reach the desired sweetness.

Fire CIder can be taken by the spoonful or shot glass directly, added to juice or water, or once again you can get creative by cooking with it. I often use it in homemade salad dressings and soups to give it a zing. If missed our episode where we discuss Fire Cider, be sure to check it out here in the previous post.

~Ruby Idaeus