It’s getting to be that time of year again – where we begin to crave ciders, sweets, and all things warm and cozy as the temperatures begin to drop. One of my favorite ways to give my immune system extra support before we enter the cooler months is with a homemade Fire Cider.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- 1 medium organic onion, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 8 cloves of organic garlic, crushed or chopped
- 1/2 organic onion, chopped
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 Tbsp. peppercorn
- 1 organic jalapeno pepper, chopped
- Zest and juice from 1 organic lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root (or organic ginger root powder)
- 1/4-1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root (or organic horseradish powder)
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic turmeric root (or organic turmeric powder)
- 1/4 tsp. organic cayenne powder if you can handle the heat
- 1/2 grapefruit if you want more citrus and liver detoxification
- organic apple cider vinegar (approximately 2 cups)
- 1/4-1/2 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 a month and remember to shake daily.
- After one month, use strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to push or 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.
I like to take a shot each day beginning in October through February (sometimes March if it has been a particular hard and harsh winter). But certainly if I feel something coming on, I will take a few shots a day to ramp up my immune system. If you’re interested in learning more ways to support yourself and your immune system!) as we move through the seasons, check out my book – Everyday Chinese Medicine: Healing Remedies for Immunity, Vitality, and Optimal Health!