DIY Apple Cider Vinegar: Easy Home Recipe Guide

I've put off making apple cider vinegar for some time, almost nearly a year. But when I had a bag of apples that were to soft for us to eat, I decided to bite the bullet and make it. It wasn't as bad as I thought but it was a waiting game. The end result was worth it! I saved money, gave some apples a second life before composting, and learned something new.

What is apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, often referred to as ACV, is a popular household ingredient known for its versatility and numerous health benefits. It is made through the fermentation of crushed apples, which produces acetic acid and other beneficial compounds. The fermentation process gives apple cider vinegar its distinct sour taste and strong smell.

One of the key components of apple cider vinegar is acetic acid, which has been linked to various health benefits. It is believed to have antimicrobial properties that can help kill harmful bacteria and prevent infections.

Additionally, some studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may help regulate blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. With its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar is also commonly used as a natural cleaning agent for household chores.

Its benefits

Apple cider vinegar is not just a pantry staple; it’s also a powerful elixir with numerous health benefits. One of the most well-known benefits of apple cider vinegar is its ability to aid in weight loss. Studies have shown that consuming apple cider vinegar can help increase feelings of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake throughout the day.

Additionally, it may also help boost metabolism, aiding in the burning of fat. Beyond weight loss, apple cider vinegar is touted for its potential to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. By incorporating apple cider vinegar into your daily routine, you may experience more stable blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of experiencing spikes and crashes throughout the day.

How to make it

• Organic Apples

• Filtered Water

• Cane Sugar

To make apple cider vinegar at home, you only need a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience. Start by collecting organic apples – any variety will do, but it's best to use a mix for a more complex flavor profile. I have collected apples over a period of time by placing what I had in a ziplock bag and stored in the freezer until I had enough.

When you have collected a decent amount of apples to fill the glass container you want to use half way, then you are ready. Wash the apples thoroughly and chop them into small pieces, including the cores and peels. The skin and seeds contain natural yeasts that are essential for the fermentation process.

Place the chopped apples in a large glass jar. Make sure to leave some room at the top for expansion—roughly an inch.

Cover the apples with room temperature or warm filtered water, leaving about an inch of space between the water and the rim of the container. To kickstart fermentation, add a couple of tablespoons of cane sugar to feed the yeast. The ratio of sugar to water is 1 Tablespoon of cane sugar to 1 cup of water or 1 cup of cane sugar to one gallon of water.

Stir well to dissolve the sweetener and then cover the jar with a clean cloth secured with a rubber band. This allows air in while keeping out dust and debris that could contaminate your vinegar.

Place the jar in a warm, dark place (ideally around 60-80°F or 15-27°C) . For the first two weeks you are to stir the mixture daily to ensure that the apples remain submerged and to prevent mold from forming. I usually do it in the morning, before working on the farm.

After the two weeks then you will drain the mixture, seperating the apples from the liquid. Make sure the mixture is in a clean conatiner. Cover the jar again with a clean cheesecloth or coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band or string.

Allow the liquid to ferment for another 4-6 weeks. Taste it periodically to check the flavor development. During this time, the liquid will start to develop a vinegar scent and taste. The entire process typically takes about 6-8 weeks (Or longer depeninding on how strong you like your vinegar).

After 6-8 weeks, taste the vinegar to see if it has reached your preferred level of acidity and flavor. If it’s not strong enough, let it sit for another week or two.

Note: if a white, jelly-like substance (called "the mother") forms on top of the vinegar, this is normal and a sign of good fermentation. You can strain it out or leave it in, as it contains beneficial bacteria.

Once the vinegar has reached your desired taste, transfer it to clean glass bottles with lids or corks. Store the vinegar in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator.

How long will it store

When it comes to storing homemade apple cider vinegar, the good news is that it has a long shelf life if stored properly. Proper storage is important to maintain its flavor and potency. To ensure your apple cider vinegar lasts for an extended period, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

A pantry or kitchen cabinet works well for this purpose. One key factor that affects the shelf life of apple cider vinegar is the type of container you use for storage.

It is recommended to store homemade apple cider vinegar in glass containers with tight-sealing lids. Glass containers help maintain the quality of the vinegar and prevent any unwanted odors or flavors from seeping in.

Additionally, make sure to seal the container tightly after each use to prevent evaporation and oxidation, which can affect the vinegar's potency over time. By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade apple cider vinegar for several months or even up to a year without any compromise in quality.

How to use it

Once you’ve successfully made your own apple cider vinegar at home, it’s time to start incorporating it into your daily routine. One popular way to use apple cider vinegar is by incorporating it into your skincare routine.

You can create a DIY toner by mixing equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. This natural toner can help balance the pH of your skin, reduce acne, and improve overall skin health.

Simply apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently swipe it across your face after cleansing. Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a hair rinse to promote shiny, healthy locks.

After shampooing your hair, mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and pour it over your hair. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.

The acidity of the vinegar helps to remove product buildup and clarify the scalp, leaving your hair looking lustrous and clean. Additionally, apple cider vinegar can be used in cooking as a flavorful addition to dressings and marinades or even as a natural household cleaner when diluted with water in a spray bottle.

Making your own apple cider vinegar at home can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only does it offer a sustainable and cost-effective way to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your daily routine, but it also allows you to have full control over the quality and freshness of the final product. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the myriad health benefits of apple cider vinegar while also indulging in a fun DIY project.

So, grab those organic apples, some patience, and a dash of creativity, and embark on your apple cider vinegar-making journey! Remember that experimentation is key – feel free to customize the process to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you use it for cooking, cleaning, or even skincare purposes, homemade apple cider vinegar is sure to add a touch of wholesome goodness to your life. Cheers to good health and sustainability – one homemade batch of ACV at a time!

Basil Family Farm