Immune Boosting Fire Cider Recipe

Grab some friends and circle round the kitchen in a seasonal ritual to create a traditional brew to help boost your immune system and carry you through the wintering.⁠

⁠Fire cider is a term and recipe that was dubbed by the wondrous and amazing herbalist, Rosemary Gladstar, however, it is also a recipe of ancient plant wisdom passed down for generations.

Fire cider is a staple for many herbalists worldwide. Made when the weather starts to get chilly, this herb-infused apple cider vinegar extract is meant to boost immune support so your body is ready for the cold winter months ahead.⁠

Ingredients like horseradish, ginger, garlic, onions, and jalapenos are used for their stimulating and bacteria-fighting properties. Aromatic, antiviral herbs like rosemary and thyme tag along in the protection.

Making fire cider is a fun and easy herbal remedy for the blossoming herbalists and wise sages alike. I cherish this time making for my family and friends.

Here is my favorite way of making Fire Cider:

Ingredients

• 1 medium organic onion, chopped
• 10 cloves of organic garlic, crushed or chopped
• 1 organic jalapeño pepper, sliced
• 1-2 organic lemon, sliced
• 1-2 organic oranges, sliced
• 2-3 organic limes, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root 
• 1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root
• 2-3 small turmeric roots, sliced or grated
• Fresh or dried rosemary
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• Some peppercorns
• A few star of anis (optional)
• Organic apple cider vinegar
• 1/4- 1 cup of raw, local honey, or to taste

Directions

1. Prepare your roots, fruits, and herbs and place them in a glass jar or jars. If you've never grated fresh horseradish, be prepared to wake up your senses!
2. Pour the apple cider vinegar in the jar until all of the ingredients are covered and the vinegar reaches the jar's top.
3. 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.
4. Store in a dark, cool place for a month and remember to shake daily.
5. After one month, use cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Squeeze it good to get all the goodness out!
6. Add honey. Add and stir until incorporated.
7. Taste your cider and add more honey until you reach the desired sweetness.

We have Rosemary's book, “Fire Cider” in the Casa with lots of amazing recipes. Come grab a copy if you are in Portland!

Beautiful illustration by Madison Safer