How to Use Fire Cider: 3 Easy Ways Beyond the Shot
By Carissa, trained herbalist and co-owner of Town Farm Tonics
Pour, gulp, OOF! If you’re familiar with fire cider, you’re familiar with that quintessential shot. The one where you hold your nose, toss it back, and pray to the gods of winter that you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws at you.
Personally, we’re huge fans of the fire cider shot. And honestly, with Town Farm Tonics Fire Cider, there’s no need to plug your nose beforehand or breathe fire afterwards. We’ve heard from everyone, from kids to longtime health food store owners, that ours is surprisingly smooth and tasty. You get the kick you’re looking for, without the fire and brimstone. ’Cause really, who needs their morning shot to hurt?!
But once you’re an old hat at the shot, what next? You know this stuff is pure magic, that much is clear. So how else can you use that golden goodness every day? Easy. Here’s how to use fire cider in your kitchen.
3 Ways to Use Fire Cider That Aren’t a Shot
1. Salad dressing
The key to eating a lot of salad? Making it taste good, fast! At our herb-loving household in Westport, MA, we all do this simple trick: drizzle fire cider, drizzle olive oil, sprinkle salt... eat. Want to take it further? Try our Sweet Heat Vinaigrette, made with fire cider and elderberry syrup.
2. Marinade
Fire cider is the perfect addition to a marinade. The apple cider vinegar base helps tenderize the meat while the herbs add flavor and depth. A standard ratio is one part fire cider to three parts [olive oil: confirm]. Add dijon, honey, and a splash of Worcestershire, and it works wonders on pork, steak, or chicken wings. Cue the drooling. Marinate in the fridge for 2 to 6 hours, and don’t reuse the marinade that touched raw meat.
3. Hot drink
Our simplest idea: add a generous splash of fire cider to a mug of hot water. Stir, sip, repeat all winter long. The hot water and the spice do the initial warming, and once the ginger, garlic, and cayenne hit your belly, you’ll feel that slow simmer begin. Ginger, garlic, and cayenne have long been considered warming herbs, and that’s a big part of why this mug is so cozy. Add a spoonful of local honey or a squeeze of lemon to smooth it out.
How Much Fire Cider Should You Use?
A serving of our Fire Cider is 1 tablespoon. One 8 oz bottle makes 16 servings. In recipes, you can adjust to taste. If you’re new to it, start small. Fire cider is spicy and acidic, so dilute it in a mug or a dressing if the shot feels like a lot.
More Ways to Use Fire Cider
- In a mocktail or cocktail. Try Fire Cider in a bloody mary, with or without the spirits.
- With elderberry syrup. A spoonful of each in a mug of hot water is a sweet-and-spicy afternoon sip.
- Drizzled on roasted vegetables or stirred into soups at the end.
Quick FAQ
What does fire cider taste like?
Tangy, spicy, savory, and a little sweet, with an herbal finish. Ours is made with apple cider vinegar, local honey, horseradish, garlic, ginger, red onion, rosemary, thyme, peppermint, and cayenne.
Can you cook with fire cider?
Absolutely!! Use it like a flavorful vinegar in dressings, marinades, and sauces.
How often can you take fire cider?
Many people take a tablespoon a day, especially in the colder months. Given that its truly a food, use it as you like, and listen to your body.
Do you have to dilute fire cider?
No, but you can. The vinegar is acidic, so rinse your mouth with water after taking it straight.
Who Should Check With a Provider First?
Fire cider is food-based, but it’s spicy, acidic, and potent. It contains honey, so it isn’t for babies under one. If you have reflux, ulcers, or a sensitive stomach, start very small.
Keep a Bottle on the Counter
Put it next to the olive oil, and you’ll reach for it more than you think. Pour, drizzle, stir, or shoot, and add more good to your day.