Making homemade apple cider vinegar in mason jars is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to create versatile ingredients for cooking and household use. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make apple cider vinegar in mason jars:
Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe
Ingredients:
Apple scraps (cores, peels, and scraps from 6-8 apples)
1-2 tablespoons of sugar (optional, to speed up fermentation)
Filtered water
Equipment:
Clean glass mason jars
Cheesecloth or coffee filter
Rubber band or string
Wooden spoon or plastic utensil (avoid metal)
Dark, warm location
Instructions:
Prepare the Apple Scraps: Gather the cores, peels, and any scraps from apples you have used for other recipes. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Place Apple Scraps in a Jar: Fill a clean mason jar about halfway with the apple scraps.
Add Sugar and Water: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to the jar. This will help accelerate the fermentation process. Fill the jar with filtered water, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Cover the Jar: Cover the jar with a double layer of cheesecloth or a coffee filter, and secure it with a rubber band or string. This will allow air to flow in and out, preventing debris from entering the jar.
Mix and Store: Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or plastic utensil, ensuring the apple scraps are submerged. For fermentation, place the jar in a warm, dark location (around 60-80°F or 15-27°C).
Fermentation Process: Stir the mixture daily, ensuring the apple scraps stay submerged. Over time, you'll notice the liquid turning cloudy and bubbles forming—this indicates the fermentation process is occurring.
Fermentation Duration: Allow the mixture to ferment for 3-4 weeks. Taste it occasionally to determine the level of acidity you prefer.
Strain the Vinegar: Once you achieve the desired acidity, strain out the apple scraps using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Save the liquid, which is now your homemade apple cider vinegar.
Store the Vinegar: Transfer the apple cider vinegar to clean, airtight mason jars or glass bottles for storage. It can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Your homemade apple cider vinegar can be used in dressings, marinades, and various recipes. The natural fermentation process transforms apple scraps into a tangy and flavorful vinegar.
