Fire cider is a traditional herbal remedy with roots in American folk medicine, made from a blend of apple cider vinegar and various herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, horseradish, cayenne pepper, and honey. Its history can be traced to the herbalist community, where it was popularized by renowned herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in the late 1970s.
Gladstar created fire cider as a remedy to boost the immune system, especially during the cold and flu season. She aimed to offer a warming, spicy, and stimulating tonic that would combine the immune-supportive properties of the ingredients with the health benefits of apple cider vinegar. The name “fire cider” reflects its fiery taste, packed with stimulating and antimicrobial herbs.
Over time, fire cider became a household name within the herbal medicine community, with many people crafting their own versions based on personal preferences or the availability of local ingredients. It became well-known for helping to support immunity, improve digestion, and clear sinuses.
In recent years, fire cider’s name sparked a legal battle when a company tried to trademark the term, claiming ownership. This led to a grassroots movement within the herbal community, fighting to keep “fire cider” a free term available to everyone. In 2019, after a lengthy legal dispute, the courts ruled that “fire cider” is a generic term, allowing everyone to use it freely.
Today, fire cider continues to be a popular home remedy, valued for its warming, immune-boosting properties. Many people still make it from scratch, while others buy ready-made versions from health food stores.
Fire cider is a traditional herbal tonic made by infusing apple cider vinegar with a combination of potent, immune-boosting ingredients. The basic recipe includes ingredients like garlic, ginger, horseradish, onions, hot peppers (such as cayenne or jalapeños), and sometimes turmeric and honey to balance the heat and tang. These ingredients are left to steep in vinegar for a few weeks, creating a spicy, warming tonic.
Basics of Fire Cider:
- Core Ingredients:
- Apple cider vinegar: The base liquid, known for its antimicrobial and digestive health benefits.
- Garlic: Antibacterial and antiviral, helps support the immune system.
- Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and promotes healthy digestion.
- Horseradish: Clears sinuses and supports respiratory health.
- Onions: Rich in antioxidants and known for their immune-boosting properties.
- Hot peppers: Stimulates circulation and provides heat, which is great for clearing sinuses.
- Honey: Often added to balance the acidity and spice, also has soothing and antibacterial properties.
- Preparation:
- The ingredients are chopped and placed in a jar, then covered with apple cider vinegar.
- The jar is left to infuse for about 4 to 6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- After the infusion, the mixture is strained, and honey can be added for sweetness.
What Fire Cider Does:
- Immune Support: The combination of antimicrobial ingredients (like garlic and vinegar) helps fight off infections and supports the body’s immune response.
- Digestive Aid: Ingredients like ginger and apple cider vinegar stimulate digestion, aiding in the production of digestive enzymes and improving gut health.
- Respiratory Health: The spicy nature of fire cider (with horseradish and hot peppers) helps clear sinuses and ease congestion, making it a popular remedy for colds and sinus infections.
- Circulation Booster: The warming ingredients promote healthy circulation, which is helpful in keeping the body warm and energized, especially in colder months.
- Anti-inflammatory: Ginger, garlic, and turmeric (if added) have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Fire cider can be taken daily as a preventative tonic (usually a tablespoon or so) or used more frequently when someone feels a cold or infection coming on. Some people mix it with water, add it to salad dressings, or drink it straight for a quick immune boost.
Fire Cider Variations
Beyond the classic recipe, many herbalists have experimented with their own fire cider variations, adding or swapping ingredients to cater to specific needs or flavor preferences. Common variations include:
- Adding Turmeric: To enhance the anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Including Echinacea: For its immune-boosting properties.
- Using Different Vinegars: Apple cider vinegar is the most common, but variations using balsamic or red wine vinegar are sometimes seen.
Fire Cider and Fermentation
Although fire cider is typically made by infusing herbs and roots in vinegar, some herbalists ferment the mixture for additional probiotic benefits. The naturally occurring bacteria in the vinegar can help promote gut health and aid digestion.
Modern Adaptations
Fire cider has found its way into modern wellness trends, with many using it not just as a medicinal tonic but also as a culinary ingredient (as seen in the recipes). It’s gaining popularity as part of the growing interest in natural and holistic health remedies.
Fire cider can last for a long time, thanks to its primary ingredient—vinegar—which acts as a natural preservative. Here’s how long it typically lasts and how to store it properly:
Shelf Life
- Unopened Fire Cider: If stored in a cool, dark place, an unopened bottle of fire cider can last up to a year or more.
- Opened Fire Cider: Once opened, fire cider can last 6-12 months, or even longer, depending on the ingredients and how it’s stored. Some people report their fire cider still tasting great and remaining potent after a year, but it’s good to use it within 6 months for optimal freshness and potency.
Proper Storage
- Refrigeration: Fire cider does not necessarily need to be refrigerated due to the preserving nature of the vinegar, but it can be stored in the fridge to keep it tasting fresher longer. This is particularly useful if you like to drink it cold.
- Cool, Dark Place: If you choose not to refrigerate it, store your fire cider in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry. Exposure to light, heat, and air can affect the potency and flavor of the cider over time.
- Airtight Container: Always keep fire cider in a tightly sealed, airtight container (like a mason jar or bottle with a proper lid). This minimizes the exposure to air and helps preserve the flavor and medicinal properties.
Signs It’s Gone Bad
While fire cider generally has a long shelf life, here are a few signs that it may be time to discard it:
- A significant change in smell or taste (though fire cider is naturally strong and pungent, trust your nose if it seems “off”).
- Visible mold or unusual cloudiness.
- Strange textures or fizzing (some natural fermentation can happen, but active bubbling may indicate spoilage).
Common Fire Cider Recipe
This is a basic, classic recipe that follows the traditional approach:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish root
- 1/2 cup grated ginger root
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, chopped (or 1 tsp cayenne pepper)
- 1/4 cup turmeric root, grated (or 1 tbsp ground turmeric)
- 1/4 cup lemon zest or 1 whole lemon, chopped
- 2 tbsp raw honey (to taste)
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Place all the chopped and grated ingredients (except honey and vinegar) in a large glass jar.
- Pour apple cider vinegar over the ingredients, covering them completely.
- Cover the jar with a plastic lid (or a wax paper layer under a metal lid to avoid corrosion from vinegar) and shake well.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it every few days.
- Strain out the solids using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Add honey to the strained liquid and stir well.
- Store the finished fire cider in the fridge, and use 1-2 tablespoons as needed.
Unique Fire Cider Variations
Citrus Spice Fire Cider
This variation adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the traditional fire cider.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated ginger root
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish root
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 oranges and 1 grapefruit, zest and juice
- 1 jalapeño or cayenne pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or more to taste)
Instructions:
Same as the traditional recipe, but after straining, you’ll notice a more vibrant, citrus flavor from the oranges and grapefruit, enhanced by the cinnamon and cloves for extra warmth.
Turmeric-Golden Fire Cider
A variation with a focus on anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated turmeric root (or 2 tbsp ground turmeric)
- 1/2 cup grated ginger root
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns (helps with turmeric absorption)
- 1 tsp ground cayenne (or fresh hot peppers)
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Follow the same preparation as the basic recipe. The addition of turmeric and black pepper creates a golden-hued tonic packed with extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
Herbal Fire Cider with Rosemary & Thyme
For a unique herbal infusion, this recipe includes fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish
- 1/2 cup grated ginger root
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp ground cayenne (or 1 fresh hot pepper)
- 2 tbsp dried nettle leaf (optional for added minerals)
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup raw honey
Instructions:
Prepare as usual. The rosemary and thyme add a unique savory note, while nettle brings additional nutrition.
Berry Fire Cider
This fruity, antioxidant-rich twist on fire cider uses berries.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated ginger
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 hot peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh or dried elderberries (or cranberries for a tart flavor)
- 2 tbsp hibiscus petals (optional, for color and tang)
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
Infuse the berries and hibiscus with the other ingredients as usual. This fire cider will have a deep reddish-purple hue and additional immune-boosting properties from the berries.
Smoky Chipotle Fire Cider
For a more robust, smoky flavor, this recipe incorporates chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated ginger
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 dried chipotle peppers (or 1 tsp smoked paprika)
- 1/4 cup grated turmeric root
- 1-2 tbsp raw honey (to taste)
- 2-3 cups raw apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Prepare like the standard recipe. The chipotle peppers will infuse a smoky, spicy depth into the fire cider, making it unique and flavourful.
After straining fire cider, you’ll be left with a mixture of infused herbs and spices that still have plenty of flavour and beneficial properties. Here are some creative ways to preserve and use those leftovers:
1. Fire Cider Pickles
You can turn the strained solids into tangy, spicy pickles:
- How to do it: Add some fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrots, or radishes to the leftover mix. Pour a little fresh apple cider vinegar over them to ensure they’re fully submerged. Let the vegetables sit in the fridge for a week, then enjoy as a snack or condiment.
2. Chutney or Relish
Transform the fire cider pulp into a flavourful chutney or relish.
- How to do it: Blend the solids with a bit of fresh apple or pear, add some extra vinegar, and cook it down with sugar (or a vegan alternative) and spices like mustard seeds or cumin. This creates a tangy, spicy chutney to serve with meals.
3. Soup or Broth Add-in
Use the leftovers to boost the flavour of soups or broths.
- How to do it: Add the strained ingredients to your stockpot when making broth or soup. They’ll add extra depth of flavour, along with immune-boosting properties from the garlic, ginger, and other herbs.
4. Fire Cider Hot Sauce
Make a spicy hot sauce from the solids.
- How to do it: Blend the strained mixture with some fresh vinegar and add extra peppers, salt, and spices to taste. Strain again to get a smoother texture, then store it in a bottle. The hot sauce will have a tangy, fiery flavour with the bonus of medicinal herbs.
5. Compost Booster
If you have a garden, these solids can be a great addition to your compost pile.
- How to do it: Simply toss the strained solids into your compost bin. The high nutrient content of the herbs will enrich your compost, which will eventually benefit your garden.
6. Marinade Base
Use the leftover fire cider solids as part of a marinade for vegetables, tofu, or even jackfruit.
- How to do it: Mix the solids with some oil, fresh herbs, and additional seasonings like soy sauce or tamari. Let your ingredients marinate for a few hours before cooking or grilling.
7. Herbal Tea or Infusion
Dry the solids to make an herbal tea or infusion.
- How to do it: Spread the strained solids on a dehydrator tray or bake them at a low temperature (around 150°F) until fully dry. Once dried, store them in an airtight container. Use a teaspoon of the dried mix in hot water for a flavourful, immune-boosting tea.
8. Salad Dressing
Blend the solids with fresh vinegar and oil to create a fire cider-infused salad dressing.
- How to do it: Use the leftover solids, add a bit more vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of mustard or herbs, and blend to a smooth consistency. This will make a spicy, tangy dressing for salads or roasted vegetables.
9. Fire Cider Fermented Paste
If you’re into fermenting, the solids can be used to create a probiotic-rich fermented paste.
- How to do it: Mix the leftovers with a bit of salt (about 2% of the total weight), pack them tightly into a jar, and let them ferment for a week or two. You’ll end up with a tangy, fiery paste that can be used as a condiment or spread.
By repurposing the fire cider solids, you not only reduce waste but also extend the life of the medicinal ingredients in flavourful and nutritious ways.
Dehydrating and grinding the leftover fire cider solids creates a versatile spice mix that can be used in various recipes. Here are some creative ways to incorporate this zesty, tangy, and spicy powder into your cooking:
1. Seasoning for Roasted Vegetables
The dehydrated fire cider powder makes an excellent seasoning for roasted vegetables.
- How to use: Toss your favourite veggies (like carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts) with olive oil and sprinkle the fire cider powder over them before roasting. It adds a zesty kick with immune-boosting properties.
2. Spice Rub for Tofu or Tempeh
Use the ground fire cider mix as part of a spice rub for marinating tofu or tempeh.
- How to use: Mix the powder with other spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or thyme. Rub it onto tofu or tempeh, let it sit for a while, then bake or grill for a flavourful and spicy protein option.
3. Fire Cider Popcorn Seasoning
This spice mix adds a bold and spicy flavour to popcorn.
- How to use: Sprinkle the fire cider powder over freshly popped popcorn along with a little salt and nutritional yeast (optional) for a savoury, tangy snack.
4. Zesty Salad Topper
Sprinkle the fire cider powder over salads for an extra layer of flavor.
- How to use: Use it to garnish green salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetable salads. The tangy and spicy flavour pairs well with oil-based dressings and adds a nutritious punch.
5. Soup and Stew Flavour Booster
Fire cider powder can be stirred into soups or stews to enhance the flavour.
- How to use: Add a teaspoon or two of the powder into hearty soups like lentil, bean, or vegetable stew. It will add a warming, spicy kick and boost the immune-supportive properties of the dish.
6. Spicy Vinegar Salt
Combine fire cider powder with sea salt to create a spicy, vinegar-flavored salt.
- How to use: Mix equal parts fire cider powder and salt (adjust to taste), then use it to season fries, baked potato wedges, or grilled corn on the cob. It adds a burst of flavour that’s tangy and spicy.
7. Herbal Tea Blend
Incorporate the powder into homemade herbal teas.
- How to use: Add a pinch of the fire cider powder to your herbal tea mix (like ginger, turmeric, or chamomile tea). The powder will bring a warming, spicy dimension to the tea, making it perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
8. Fire Cider Spice Mix for Vegan Tacos or Fajitas
Use the dehydrated fire cider blend in your spice mix for taco fillings or fajitas.
- How to use: Mix it with cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt, then use it to season sautéed vegetables, jackfruit, or mushrooms for a spicy, tangy taco filling.
9. Sprinkled on Avocado Toast
Sprinkle the fire cider powder over avocado toast for a zesty flavour boost.
- How to use: Mash avocado onto toast, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the fire cider powder on top. Add additional toppings like sliced radishes or microgreens for an extra crunch.
10. Fire Cider Spice-Infused Oil
Infuse the dehydrated fire cider powder into oil for a zesty, flavoured cooking oil.
- How to use: Add the fire cider powder to olive oil and let it steep for a few days. Use this infused oil for cooking, as a base for dressings, or to drizzle over grilled vegetables, pizza, or pasta dishes.
11. Spice Up Stir-Fries
Incorporate the fire cider powder into stir-fries for added depth of flavour.
- How to use: Toss your stir-fry ingredients with a mix of soy sauce or tamari, a bit of oil, and a sprinkle of fire cider powder. The spice mix adds heat, tang, and flavour complexity to quick veggie or tofu stir-fries.
12. Seasoned Vegan Cheese
Blend the fire cider powder into homemade nut-based vegan cheeses for a tangy kick.
- How to use: When making cashew or almond-based cheese, add a teaspoon of fire cider powder to the mix before setting or blending. It gives the cheese a spicy, savoury flavour.
13. Fire Cider Spiced Crackers
Incorporate the powder into homemade cracker recipes.
- How to use: Add a teaspoon or two of the fire cider powder into the dough when making homemade crackers. The result will be spicy, tangy crackers that pair well with dips or hummus.
14. Fire Cider Spice Sprinkle for Grain Bowls
Sprinkle the powder over grain bowls like quinoa or rice bowls.
- How to use: After assembling a grain bowl with ingredients like roasted veggies, tofu, and greens, sprinkle the fire cider powder over the top for a zesty finish.
15. Fire Cider-Infused Nut Mix
Use the powder to season roasted nuts.
- How to use: Toss almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts with olive oil and the fire cider powder. Roast the nuts in the oven for a few minutes until crispy. This creates a spicy, tangy snack.
By dehydrating and grinding the leftovers, you create a versatile, nutrient-dense seasoning that can be used to elevate dishes with unique flavours while preserving the benefits of fire cider ingredients.
Here are some creative and delicious ways to use the fire cider itself in recipes:
1. Fire Cider Salad Dressing
Fire cider’s tangy and spicy flavours make it an excellent base for salad dressing.
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Drizzle over salads or roasted vegetables for a zesty and health-boosting dressing.
2. Fire Cider Marinade
Use fire cider as a marinade for vegetables or tofu.
- Ingredients:
- ¼ cup fire cider
- 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Use the mixture to marinate tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, or vegetables for at least 30 minutes before grilling or roasting.
3. Fire Cider Pickled Vegetables
Add fire cider to pickling brine for an extra kick of flavour and health benefits.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup fire cider
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional)
- Sliced vegetables (cucumbers, radishes, carrots, etc.)
- Instructions:
- Heat the fire cider, water, salt, and sugar (if using) until the salt dissolves.
- Pour the brine over the vegetables in a jar.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying as pickles.
4. Fire Cider Hot Toddy
Turn your fire cider into a warming hot toddy.
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 cup hot water or herbal tea
- Instructions:
- Combine fire cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a mug.
- Pour in hot water or tea, stir, and enjoy as a cozy, immune-boosting drink.
5. Fire Cider Vinaigrette for Roasted Veggies
Enhance the flavours of roasted veggies by tossing them with fire cider vinaigrette.
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Roast your favourite vegetables.
- Drizzle the fire cider vinaigrette over them when they come out of the oven.
6. Fire Cider Guacamole
Add a spicy kick to guacamole with fire cider.
- Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 tbsp fire cider
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Serve with tortilla chips, vegetables, or spread on toast.
7. Fire Cider Hummus
Infuse your hummus with the bold flavours of fire cider.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 1 tbsp tahini
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- Serve as a dip or spread.
8. Fire Cider BBQ Sauce
Add fire cider to your homemade BBQ sauce for a tangy, spicy twist.
- Ingredients:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup fire cider
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp mustard
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use on grilled vegetables, tofu, or tempeh for a spicy, flavourful BBQ glaze.
9. Fire Cider Stir-Fry Sauce
Boost the flavour of your stir-fry with a fire cider-based sauce.
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- Instructions:
- Stir-fry vegetables or tofu in a pan.
- Add the sauce ingredients and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to coat everything in the flavourful sauce.
10. Fire Cider Bloody Mary
Use fire cider to make a unique and spicy Bloody Mary.
- Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp fire cider
- ½ cup tomato juice
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a shaker.
- Pour over ice and garnish with celery, pickles, or olives for a tangy, spicy drink.
11. Fire Cider Power Shot
For a quick immune boost, take fire cider as a shot.
- Ingredients:
- 1-2 tbsp fire cider
- Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- Instructions:
- Take it straight or mix with a bit of water or juice for a quick immune boost.
12. Fire Cider Pasta Sauce
Use fire cider to add complexity to tomato-based pasta sauces.
- Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp fire cider
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil and oregano (optional)
- Instructions:
- Sauté garlic in olive oil.
- Add tomatoes and fire cider, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Toss with pasta for a tangy, spicy sauce.
13. Fire Cider Drizzle on Grain Bowls
Add a spicy, vinegar kick to grain bowls with a fire cider drizzle.
- Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp fire cider
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Drizzle the fire cider mixture over a grain bowl made with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and greens.
14. Fire Cider Spiced Apple Cider
Mix fire cider with warm apple cider for a spicy drink with a health boost.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider (unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp fire cider
- Cinnamon stick (optional)
- Instructions:
- Warm the apple cider in a saucepan.
- Stir in fire cider and serve warm with a cinnamon stick garnish.
15. Fire Cider Glaze for Roasted Squash
Make a sweet and spicy glaze for roasted heirloom squash or sweet potatoes.
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp fire cider
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Roast squash or sweet potatoes as usual.
- Drizzle the fire cider glaze over them halfway through roasting for extra flavour.
These recipes offer fun and versatile ways to incorporate fire cider into everyday meals, adding both a health boost and a bold flavour to a variety of dishes!
See you in the kitchen making fire cider!!