Fire Cider is a homemade tonic, unique to each household. There is not really a recipe, just fruit, vegetables and herbs used for medicinal purposes with their goodness being extracted by apple cider vinegar (with the mother). The apple cider vinegar seems to be the only constant in the long list of ingredients you can use.
Take the time to research the healing properties of what you choose to add to yours. Onions, garlic, and citrus are always in my Fire Cider. This year I have decided to add dried elderberries. It is already turning a wonderful pink color. I also like to add bay leaves which aid in digestion. And the ginger, turmeric and black pepper help with inflammation. Oregano is a natural bacterial antibiotic. I could go on and on, but you get the point. Make it your own- your kitchen, your rules.
I didn’t grow up with this tonic, I discovered it several years ago. I used it myself for a couple of years- I wanted to make sure I wasn’t going to kill anyone and that it did in fact make a difference- and I now feel more than comfortable making an extra large batch and sharing it with family and friends.
Tonics and tinctures are also a great way to recycle glass jars that aren’t safe for canning. I have a ton of unique glass jars from olives, pickles, etc that I keep on hand for tonics, tinctures, vases and propagating. I may have a five tiered shelf of these items in my basement…they always come in handy.
Here are few things I have learned on my Fire Cider journey:
Apple cider vinegar with the mother is the base.
Clean and organic ingredients are ideal. Use what you have on hand.
Placing the herbs in the bottom of the glass works best and prevents them from floating to the top.
Label the jar and include the date- trust me, this is important!
Keep the final Fire Cider in the fridge, it is not shelf stable after the honey has been added.
To strain, you can use a nut bag, metal strainer or cheesecloth.
The spiciness of the tonic mellows as it sets in the fridge.
Some people prefer to mix a teaspoon of tonic with water when taking it. I prefer to just take a straight teaspoon full and then drink water after to wash it down.
Disclaimer: I like to turn to tonics and tinctures first, but if symptoms escalate I do turn to modern medicine. I am a stage 3 breast cancer survivor and I believe in holistic and natural cures, but I also believe there is a great need for doctors, pharmacuticals and medical advancements. Everything in moderation.
Fire Cider
Description
Fire Cider is a tonic and every Fire Cider is unique. Pick your own ingredients from the list and measure with your heart.
Disclaimer: I like to turn to tonics and tinctures first, but if symptoms escalate I do turn to modern medicine. I am a stage 3 breast cancer survivor and I believe in holistic and natural cures, but I also believe there is a great need for doctors, pharmaceuticals and medical advancements. Everything in moderation.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Layer all ingredients in a glass jar, except for vinegar and honey.
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Cover with apple cider vinegar with the mother.
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If using a metal lid, place a layer of parchment paper between the jar and lid to prevent rust.
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Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks.
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When time is up, strain and add raw honey.
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Store covered in the fridge for up to 6 months.
