Name: How To Make Fire Cider: A Homemade Remedy
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 10 Garlic cloves crushed; 1 medium red onion sliced; 2-3 Jalapenos sliced; 1/4 cup sliced turmeric; 1 cup sliced ginger; 1/2 cup grated Horseradish; 1 Orange sliced; 2 Lemons sliced; 2-3 Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks; 1 Cup Frozen Organic Cranberries; 2 tsp Black Peppercorns:; 1 1/2 tbsp Elderberry; 2-3 sprigs of Rosemary; 3-4 sprigs of Thyme; 3 1/2 cups of Apple Cider Vinegar

Homemade Fire Cider Recipe:

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This easy homemade fire cider recipe is an age old remedy full of immune boosting ingredients. We love having this potent herbal tonic ready to go for the cold and flu season. It goes perfectly with our other homemade natural remedies such as our elderberry syrup, fermented cold syrup, beet kvass, and fermented garlic in honey. In our family of six, having these immune-supportive recipes ready to go makes life so much easier when someone starts feeling sick. It saves us from the hassle of running to the store with sick children in tow, and these remedies are far better than anything you can find over the counter.

What is Fire Cider?

Fire Cider is an immune boosting drink made using different plants, fruits, and herbs steeped in apple cider vinegar over time to create a health promoting elixir with a kick. In 1970 an herbalist named Rosemary Gladstar popularized this age old remedy. While there are countless variations, Fire Cider is commonly made using ingredients such as garlic, turmeric, horseradish, oranges, herbs, and hot peppers. The recipe listed below incorporates extra ingredients for maximum health benefits, because I figure if I am taking the time to make things that heal my family why not get the most bang for my buck so to speak.

What are the Health Benefits of Fire Cider?

Many take fire cider as a preventative measure due to the immune boosting benefits, but this homemade remedy can also ward off a cold or flu, as well as enhance digestion. The best way to understand all the benefits to the body is by taking a look at each ingredients impact on the body. Now while it may be tempting to skip ahead to the recipe, consider how understanding the properties of these foods can benefit other ailments you may be struggling with. In other words read and be amazed by these foods!

Ingredients For Fire Cider and Their Health Benefits

Garlic: Often known as nature’s antibiotic, garlic has anti-fungal and antiviral properties. It helps protect cells from damage, is anti-inflammatory and can reduce blood pressure.
Onion: Onions contain vitamin C, calcium, folate, vitamin b6, and potassium. They are rich in immune boosting properties and contain a flavanoid called quercetin that help reduce inflammation.
Jalapeno: Jalapeños contain capsaicin, the compound that gives them heat. Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain and swelling. They also have anti-microbial effects and antioxidants such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage.
Turmeric: Curcumin is an active compound found in turmeric. It can help reduce chronic inflammation.
Ginger: This root is amazing at combating nausea. It also promotes smoother digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
Horseradish: Think of horseradish as a natural decongestant. It also can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
Oranges: These fruits are often known for their vitamin C, but they also contain flavonoids and potassium that can support the heart and lower blood pressure.
Lemons: Lemons help flush out toxins from the body and support liver health. They also increase the production of digestive enzymes, and of course are also rich in citric acid and vitamin C.
Cinnamon: This powerful spice can help improve insulin sensitivity and is rich in antioxidants and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
Cranberries: This seasonal tart berry is rich in vitamin C and contains compounds called proanthocyanidins that help prevent harmful bacteria line the urinary tract.
Black Peppercorns: Piperine is found in this ‘king of spices” which is known to help enhance nutrient absorption. Especially ones found in turmeric such as curcumin.
Elderberry: These nutrient packed fruits can help strengthen the immune system due to their antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids.
Rosemary: This herb is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Its active compounds, like carnosic acid can help protect the brain from oxidative stress.
Thyme: This herb contains thymol, a compound that helps support your immune system and respiratory system. It also has antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV stimulates stomach acid production which aids in digestion. It is also known to stabilize blood sugar making it very helpful to people with type 2 diabetes.

Ways To Use Fire Cider

Add it to your homemade salad dressing such as a vinaigrette based dressing.
Make your marinade and incorporate fire cider into it.
Make a warm drink by adding it into some warm water with honey and lemon.
Create delicious drizzling sauces that spice up a recipe.
Add it to soup such as a white chicken chili or chicken noodle.
Add it to some meat stock or bone broth to increase the nutrients.

Common Questions

How do I store fire cider?

Store your fire cider in the fridge for 6 months or for up to 12 months in the cupboard in a dark, dry, and cool location.

How long does fire cider last?

If fire cider is stored in a dark, cool and dry cabinet it can stay good for up to 18 months. It is recommended to use within a year, all though if you are taking it daily or even just a few times a week it most likely will not last that long.

How often should I take fire cider?

You can take 1-2 tablespoons of fire cider everyday. You can also start taking it when colds or the flu is going around in your community. It is not necessary however to take it every single day unless desired. Every other day or every few days is fine as well.

Can I still make fire cider if I am missing a few ingredients?

Yes, fire cider is very forgiving and does not need to be made with exact ingredients or measurements. Add as many as you can or have available and make sure they are thoroughly covered with the apple cider vinegar. Only have 1 jalapeno? No elderberry? Only half an onion? That is perfectly fine. Adjust your jar size if necessary and make do with what you have.

Does fire cider need to be ‘burped’?

Fire Cider is steeped, similar to a tea, it is not a fermentation therefore it does not need to be burped.