Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar That’s Easy to Make

You’re about to discover how simple it is to make apple cider vinegar in your own kitchen. This versatile fermented product doesn’t require fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients – just apples, sugar, water, and patience. While store-bought versions can be expensive, your homemade batch will cost just pennies per serving and give you complete control over the ingredients. Let’s explore the step-by-step process to create this tangy, beneficial elixir.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before beginning your homemade apple cider vinegar journey, you’ll need several essential items: organic apple scraps (cores and peels), filtered water, raw honey or organic cane sugar, a wide-mouth glass jar, and a breathable cloth cover with a rubber band.

Ensure your glass jar is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to prevent unwanted bacteria growth. You’ll want enough apple scraps to fill the jar about halfway. Choose fresh, unblemished apples, as moldy pieces can spoil your batch. The cloth cover should be tightly woven, like cheesecloth or a coffee filter, to keep out fruit flies while allowing fermentation gases to escape. Additionally, using raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar can enhance the fermentation process and introduce beneficial probiotics.

Preparing the Apple Mixture

With your supplies ready, it’s time to start the fermentation process.

Wash your apples thoroughly and cut them into 1-inch chunks, leaving the peels and cores intact. These parts contain natural yeasts essential for fermentation.

Fill your glass jar two-thirds full with apple pieces.

Pour filtered water over the apples until they’re completely submerged, leaving 2-3 inches of headspace. Add raw honey or organic sugar, using 1/4 cup per quart of water.

Stir until dissolved.

Cover the jar with a coffee filter or cheesecloth, securing it with a rubber band to keep out insects while allowing airflow. Consistent monitoring of the fermentation process ensures you achieve the desired flavor and benefits of homemade apple cider vinegar.

The Fermentation Process

Once you’ve covered your apple mixture, place the jar in a dark, room-temperature spot (65-75°F) where it won’t be disturbed.

Over the next 2-3 weeks, you’ll witness the magic of fermentation as natural yeasts convert sugars into alcohol.

Watch in amazement as bubbles start forming within 24-48 hours, signaling active fermentation.
Feel satisfied when a white, frothy layer develops on top – this is completely normal.
Trust your nose – it should smell sweet and slightly alcoholic, never rotten.
Notice the liquid becoming clearer as the fruit sinks to the bottom.
Experience pride as your mixture transforms into “hard cider” before becoming vinegar. Keep in mind that maintaining an optimal temperature is crucial for beneficial bacteria growth during this process.

Storing and Using Your Homemade Vinegar

After your apple cider vinegar has fully matured, you’ll need to store it properly to maintain its quality and prevent contamination.

Transfer the vinegar to clean, sterilized glass bottles with airtight lids. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

You can use your homemade vinegar for salad dressings, marinades, and pickling. It’s also great for cleaning and personal care. Additionally, remember that vinegar’s natural antimicrobial properties can help enhance your personal care routine.

Before consuming, dilute it with water to protect your tooth enamel. If you notice any off-odors or mold, discard the batch immediately.

Your vinegar will keep for up to a year when stored correctly. Label each bottle with the production date for proper rotation.

Benefits and Common Uses

Homemade apple cider vinegar offers numerous health and household benefits that make it a versatile addition to your daily routine.

You’ll find it’s an effective natural solution for both wellness and cleaning tasks around your home.

Mix 1-2 tablespoons with water to support digestive health and potentially aid weight management
Apply diluted solution to skin to help balance pH levels and soothe minor irritations
Use as a natural household cleaner to disinfect surfaces and remove mineral deposits
Add to marinades and dressings for enhanced flavor and preservation
Create a hair rinse to boost shine and remove product buildup
Additionally, raw apple cider vinegar is rich in probiotics which support gut health.