Last year, I decided to go to Standing Rock reservation in North Dakota to be apart of the historical events that were taking place there. I went during thanksgiving weekend, at which point there were over 10,000 people camping out!
I got the chance to cook with a few Native Americans at one of the camp sites, and one interesting creation which really stood out to me was this medicinal tonic. It is made using a wide variety of herbs and spices. I have read articles referring to this drink as some sort of witch’s concoction, coming straight out of a Grimm’s fairy tale. The remedial effects of fire cider seem to be undeniable however, which is why I wanted to share it.
How To Use Fire Cider:
Homemade fire cider recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root
- 1 medium organic onion, chopped
- 10 cloves of organic garlic, crushed or chopped
- 2 organic jalapeno peppers, chopped
- Zest and juice from 1 organic lemon
- Several sprigs of fresh organic rosemary or 2 tbsp of rosemary leaves
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne powder
- organic apple cider vinegar
- raw local honey to taste
Directions
1. Prepare all of your roots, fruits, and herbs and place them in a quart-sized jar. If you’ve never grated fresh horseradish, be prepared for a powerful sinus opening experience!
2. Pour in apple cider vinegar until all ingredients are submerged. 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.
3. Store in a dark, cool place for a month and remember to shake daily.
4. After one month, use cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze as much of the liquidy goodness as you can from the pulp while straining.
5. Next comes the honey. Add 1/4 cup of honey and stir until incorporated.
6. Taste your cider and add another 1/4 cup until you reach the desired sweetness.
Herbal Ingredient Variations
These organic herbs and spices would make a great addition to Fire Cider creations.
Thyme, Horseradish root Powder, Rosehips, Sar Anise, Schisandra Berries, Astragalus, Parsley, Burdock, Oregano, Peppercorns, Beet Root Powder, Habanero Powder, Bird’s Eye Chili Powder, Whole Chili Peppers, Orange, Grapefruit, Lime peels/or juice.
References
https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/fire-cider
mommypotamus.com/fire-cider-recipe/