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+ servings

Apple Cider Vinegar

erynwhalen
This homemade apple cider vinegar recipe is a simple and effective way to turn leftover apple scraps into your own apple cider vinegar.
Ideal for everything from salad dressings to aiding digestion and weight loss, this homemade vinegar is a great way to add a powerful, natural ingredient to your pantry.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Additional Time 2 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Fermenting
Cuisine American
Servings 3 -4 quarts if using 2 half gallon jars to ferment
Calories 2 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Apple scraps peels, cores, and any leftover apple pieces
  • Filtered or tap water enough to cover the apple scraps
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar brown or white per cup of water
  • 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar optional, to kickstart fermentation

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Apple Scraps:Collect apple peels, cores, and leftover pieces. Remove any rotting parts. Place the apple scraps into a clean half gallon mason jar, filling it halfway.

    Add Water and Sugar:Pour enough water into the jar to completely cover the apple scraps. For each cup of water, stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar (either brown sugar or white sugar). This helps feed the fermentation process. If you have some on hand, add a couple of tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar to speed up fermentation.

    Cover and Store:Cover the jar with a clean tea towel or butter muslin, and secure it with a jar ring or rubber band. Store the jar in a dark, warm spot (around 70°F), away from direct sunlight. Let the mixture ferment for 2-3 weeks, stirring daily.

    Strain and Ferment Further:After 2-3 weeks, strain out the solids, keeping the liquid. Return the liquid to the jar and cover again. Let it ferment for another 3-4 weeks. Taste periodically to check the acidity level until it's to your liking.

    Store and Enjoy:Once you’re happy with the flavor, pour your homemade apple cider vinegar into jars with tight-fitting lids and store it in a cool, dry place. The vinegar will continue to develop in flavor over time.

Notes

Supplies
Half Gallon Mason
Tea towel or butter muslin
Jar ring or rubber band
Spoon for stirring
If you notice any mold or fruit flies during fermentation, skim them off; the vinegar underneath is still good.
If you’re not seeing bubbles or activity, don’t worry. The process can slow down based on the temperature.
You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
For added health benefits, add a tablespoon of raw honey to your finished vinegar.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 2kcal
Keyword apple cider vinegar, apples, fermenting
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!