Make Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is an all-natural product that is reputed to have a number of healthy benefits such as increasing stamina and boosting your immune system. It takes approximately 7 months time, but this Apple Cider Vinegar recipe is an inexpensive way to make it at home. Just follow these step-by-step instructions for how to make Apple Cider Vinegar.
Steps
- Wash 10 organically grown apples.
- Cut the apples into quarters.
- Allow the apples to rest at room temperature until they turn brown.
- Put the brown apple quarters into a large, wide-mouth glass jar.
- Pour enough water in the jar to cover the apples.
- Cover the jar with a cheesecloth. Allow it to rest lightly on top, without securing. This will let more oxygen into the mixture.
- Place the covered jar in a warm, dark place. A hot water closet works well. You can also store it in an attic or well house during warm weather months.
- Leave the jar to stand, covered for 6 months, stirring once a week.
- Retrieve the jar at the end of the 6-month fermentation period. There will be a layer of scum on top of the liquid. This forms from normal bacteria as alcohol turns to vinegar.
- Filter the liquid through the cheesecloth slowly into another wide-mouth glass jar. This can be done by holding the cheesecloth securely onto the first jar. Then tip it to let small amounts of liquid through and into the second jar. Do this until all the liquid is filtered and transferred to the second jar.
- Cover the new jar of liquid with the same cheesecloth.
- Let stand in a warm, dark place for another 4 to 6 weeks.
- Transfer your fully-fermented Apple Cider Vinegar into smaller containers if desired. Store, covered, in the refrigerator to preserve freshness.
Tips
- Making Apple Cider Vinegar at home is useful for making your own salad dressing or adding flavor to your cooking. It can also be used for pickling as long as the pickled product is kept in the refrigerator.
- To relieve the pain of muscle cramps, a tonic can be made by adding 1 to 2 tsp. (5 to 10ml) of Apple Cider Vinegar and 1 tsp. (5ml) of honey to 1 cup (8oz) of warm water.
- Washing with ACV will make your hair healthier, as described.
- Apple Cider Vinegar is said to have a vast array of health benefits. It can aid in digestion and help fight urinary tract infections. It's also reputed to lower cholesterol, reduce sinus infections and increase metabolism. Some have reported relief from arthritis pain, acne and allergies.
- Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar can be flavored, if desired, prior to storing. Garlic, ginger, raspberries or fresh herbs are just a few suggestions for added flavors. Add as much or as little as you like, depending on your taste.
Warnings
- Do not make or store your Apple Cider Vinegar in metal containers. The high acid content will corrode the metal. It is best to use glass containers, although plastic, wood or stainless steel can also be used.
Things You'll Need
- 10 whole organic apples
- 2 large, wide-mouth glass jars
- Water
- Cheesecloth
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