Like many of you, I suspect, I'd never heard of Fire Cider until a few weeks ago. It's a homemade tonic, and it wasn't historically something you could buy, and it wasn't a tradition in my family. But, after stumbling upon a bottle of Shire City Fire Cider at a local market, and I snapped a photo and did some research. Turns out, is this old folk concoction of aromatics, vinegar, and other fermented goodies that's good for whatever ails you.
Alex Redgrave reports,
Traditionally a cold remedy, many people take a hit of the cure-all every morning, since it’s known to have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, decongestant and digestive properties. Needless to say, with all those healing abilities, Fire Cider is not for sensitive palates or lily livers. The heady tonic has a way of making a clean sweep of your digestive system. (Woe to the person who kicks off a daily Fire Cider habit directly following a night of copious drinking…). As with most things in life, moderation is key. We recommend working your way up to gulping down the remedy with gusto.
Of course, since for hundreds of years it was a homemade product, you can (and should) make some yourself. The Kaufmann Mercantile blog shares a recipe, which uses fresh horseradish, ginger, onions, garlic, chiles, and a full quart of apple cider vinegar.
Not for the weak, for sure, but I can't wait to give this stuff a shot. Get the recipe:
Fire Cider [Kauffman Mercantile blog]