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Elderberry & Citrus Fire Cider

A deliciously zesty, spicy, immune-boosting fire cider to have on hand during the cold and flu season.
Course Herbal Remedies

Equipment

  • Gallon-size glass jar with lid

Ingredients
  

  • 1 orange
  • 1 red onion
  • 2 lemon
  • 1 head garlic
  • 1/2 cup elderberry
  • 2-3 tablespoons black peppercorn
  • 1-3 jalapeno peppers
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • Small handful fresh thyme 1 tablespoon dried
  • Small handful fresh oregano 1 tablespoon dried
  • Enough raw unpasturized apple cider vinegar to cover
  • ½ cup raw honey or to taste

Instructions
 

  • Roughly chop all ingredients and add them to the jar.
  • Add enough apple cider vinegar to fill the jar to the very top, making sure everything is covered by at least an inch or so of vinegar.*
  • Cover with a plastic lid or place a piece of parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching metal (it will corrode it). Secure lid tightly and shake the jar well.
  • Store in a cool, dark spot for 4 weeks, shaking regularly.
  • When ready, strain the fire cider through several layers of cheesecloth into a clean jar, squeezing out as much of the liquid as possible.
  • Add honey, tasting as you go, until you’re happy with the balance.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

To Use:

  • Enjoy a tablespoon daily to support your immune and digestive systems.
  • Use in your cooking wherever a flavor-packed vinegar would be nice (salad dressings, for instance).
  • When you feel a cold coming on or start to feel congested, take by the teaspoon often (every hour or so) to help bolster your immune system and clear your sinuses.

Notes

*Note: I got a bit overzealous when filling my jar and had to use a glass weight to keep everything submerged in the vinegar.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!