• 2 red onions

• 1 Cup of ACV or use shrub

• 1/4 Cup Fire Cider (can sub andy flavor shrub)

• Handful of peppercorns

• Additional Seasonings (optional): add bay leaves, jalapenos, coriander, clove, cinnamon, garlic, red pepper flakes, thyme, lime wedges, citrus peel, or mustard seeds

Slice onions thin (consider using a mandolin), pack in a clean mason jar, pour in ACV/Fire Cider, add whatever seasonings you opt for, seal, and refrigerate. Let them sit for at least 30 mins before eating. The longer they sit the better they taste.

December’s featured ingredient is the Rosehip which grows wild alongside our property line and I forage. Rosehips are one of nature’s richest sources of vitamin C, are rich in antioxidants and support a healthy immune system. This month’s Shrub flavors are a Medlar and Rosehips Shrub (what is a medlar you ask: see below) and an Elderberry and Rosehips Fire Cider.

Medlars are a small bushy tree of the rose family that originated in Persia, Bulgaria, Turkey, and SE Asia. They have small brown apple-like fruit, which is only edible after it has begun to decay. I had to keep mine in a cold dark place for over a month until they were overly ripe and Shrub-ready! The taste is somewhat similar to stewed apple or quince with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Delicious in a Shrub Toddy! 

I suggest using your Fire Cider as a winter warmer to combat cold and flu season. Simply add a tablespoon of it to hot water and sip! If you’re coming down with something it’s best to start taking it regularly and every day (up to 3 times daily). It also makes an excellent salad dressing (recipe below):

FIRE CIDER VINAIGRETTE SALAD DRESSING

• 4 Tbsp of good quality olive, avocado or pumpkin seed oil

• 2 Tbsp Elderberry and Rosehips Fire Cider

• 2 tsp mustard

• 1 tsp ground pepper

• 1 tsp dried or fresh herbs of your choice (I like dill, oregano, and thyme in mine)

• Pinch of salt

Whisk all ingredients vigorously together and toss on your favorite mixed green salad! Also great as a marinade or finisher on roasted vegetables and or meats. 

Happy holidays to you and yours and cheers to your health!