Fire Cider Recipe 🔥
Straight From the Kitchen at Pines & Quill
As the seasons begin to shift and the air takes on that crisp, golden edge, I find myself reaching for rituals that warm from the inside out. One of my favorites? Fire Cider. This bold, tangy tonic is a time-honored herbal remedy—equal parts spicy, sweet, and invigorating.
Whether you’re looking to boost immunity, soothe a sore throat, or simply add a little kick to your day, this recipe—straight from Niall MacCullough's kitchen at Pines & Quill—is a flavorful way to welcome autumn with intention.
INGREDIENTS
Adjust quantities to suit your taste and tolerance for heat. This recipe is flexible!
¼–½ cup horseradish root, peeled and chopped
¼–½ cup ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
¼–½ cup turmeric root, peeled and thinly sliced
1 small–medium red beet, washed (no need to peel), diced
½ red onion, sliced into thin wheels
1 head garlic, peeled and smashed slightly
2 jalapeños, sliced into thin wheels
1 tsp whole black peppercorns
½ tsp celery seed
1/2 tsp chili flakes
¼ tsp ground cayenne pepper
2 cinnamon sticks
10–15 whole cloves
1 cup (or ~8 oz) whole cranberries, smashed slightly
1 lemon, sliced into thin wheels
1 orange, sliced into thin wheels
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
3+ cups raw apple cider vinegar (Bragg is excellent)
2+ cups raw honey
Optional Add-Ins: star anise, thyme sprigs, hibiscus petals, or a splash of elderberry syrup for added depth.
INSTRUCTIONS
Add all non-liquid ingredients to a clean, sterilized 1-gallon glass jar or container. Leave 3 inches of headspace.
Pour in enough vinegar to cover the ingredients by at least 1 inch.
Stir gently with a non-metal utensil to release air bubbles. Top off with more vinegar if needed.
Cap with a glass, or plastic (non-metallic) lid, or use wax/parchment paper under a metal lid.
INFUSION
Let the mixture infuse for 2–4 weeks in the refrigerator. Gently stir the contents every few days to keep things active.
FLAVOR PROFILE BY INFUSION TIME
Time / Flavor / Potency
2 Weeks / Tangy, bright, slightly sharp / moderate
4 Weeks / Rich, complex, well-rounded / maximum boost
AFTER INFUSION
Strain through a fine metal mesh sieve (the only time you use metal).
Compost or discard solids.
PRO TIP
If you're a sauerkraut fan like the folks at Pines & Quill, add the discarded jalapeños and red onion to your sauerkraut jar for a kick of heat.
ADDING HONEY
After infusion and once strained, let the liquid come to room temperature and then stir in raw honey, up to equal parts of the strained vinegar. Start with half and taste as you go. Some prefer a sharper, vinegar-forward profile.
This is how my Fire Cider looks after infusion and the removal of ingredients. The beautiful color is thanks to the beets and cranberries.
STORAGE
Store in the refrigerator in a glass container with a glass or plastic lid (or parchment under metal). Properly stored, fire cider lasts 3–6 months. However, it's consumed much faster at Pines & Quill. Always check for changes in smell or appearance before use.
Note: Honey is antimicrobial, but since it’s added after infusion, refrigeration (as opposed to countertop) is best—especially with fresh citrus, beets, and jalapeños in the mix.
ENJOYING FIRE CIDER
Take 1 tablespoon to 1.5 ounces daily—straight, diluted, or mixed into tea.
Morning Tonic: A zesty start to the day
Evening Sip: A soothing wind-down ritual
As Needed: When feeling run-down or under the weather
CREATIVE USES
Mix with olive oil for a salad dressing
Drizzle over roasted veggies
Stir into soups or broths for a kick
FINAL THOUGHTS
Fire Cider is more than a remedy—it’s a ritual. A way to honor the changing seasons, nourish your body, and add a little spice to your day. Whether you take it as a morning tonic or stir it into your evening tea, may it bring warmth, resilience, and a touch of joy to your autumn and winter months.
YOU'RE INVITED
Please join me on Thursday, September 25, for a lively, behind-the-scenes conversation about the Sean McPherson Crime Thriller series—featuring the latest release, Illusionist. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this event promises engaging discussion, insider insights, and maybe even a few surprises.
📍 Attend in person at the Columbus Public Library Annex
📍 Or join us online via Zoom—from wherever you are!
I'll be tuning in from my home in the Pacific Northwest, and I’d love for you to join me.
🕔 Event Time:
5–6 PM Pacific
6–7 PM Mountain
7–8 PM Central
8–9 PM Eastern
REGISTER at this link to receive Zoom access before the event: https://forms.gle/6J8KF2tL4FFGWskK7
READS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS!
I devoured oodles of books this summer (Jun, Jul, Aug), and I’m excited to share the covers of my top twelve picks—no particular order, just pure reading joy!
Want to see my thoughts on these and more? Follow me on Goodreads.
Happy Reading!
Laurie
lauriebuchanan.com