When I was making apple pie filling last month I also started a batch of apple scrap vinegar.
I did quite a bit of research and decided to just use two ingredients to make the vinegar, apple scraps and filtered water.
Some of the recipes I saw called for sugar and/or boiling the apple scraps and water. However, I chose the simple route.
The apples I used were organic so I didn’t have to worry about any pesticides. I also used raw scraps as opposed to the scraps from my applesauce and apple butter.
The jars above I just filled today thanks to a good friend who made a bunch of apple cider and brought me some scraps. Yes, only a good friend would think to offer me apple scraps. 🙂
If you would like to make your own apple scrap vinegar here is the process I used.
The first thing you will need to do when making apple scrap vinegar is to get out a clean glass jar. I used a gallon sized jar, but the batches I am making now are in various sized glass jars.
Loosely fill the jar a little over half full. You don’t want to overfill the jar or the apple scraps won’t rise when you add the water.
Next, fill the jar almost to the top with filtered water. It is important not to use straight tap water or water that has been treated with chlorine.
After adding the water you need to cover the jar but still let the contents of the jar breathe.
I found that a scrap of T-shirt fabric with a rubber band over it worked great. You could also use several layers of cheesecloth.
Place the jar in a dark place that isn’t too hot or too cool.
I put the jar in the basement but that may have caused the process to take longer than necessary.
You will notice bubbles forming on top of the jar within the first couple of days. Eventually, you may even notice some scum or possibly some mold.
Just scoop it out and put the cloth back over the top.
When the apple scraps have started to sink to the bottom your apple scrap vinegar is ready to filter.
It took about a month for this to happen for my batch of vinegar. It may take less time for yours if you keep it in a warmer spot.
Now it is time to strain the apples from the vinegar.
I strained them using a mesh sieve and then I strained the vinegar again through a smaller mesh sieve lined with a paper towel (cheesecloth will also work).
Then I poured the vinegar into quart jars and covered them with a scrap of T-shirt fabric and a canning ring.
I will let the jars sit for a couple of months and then I should have vinegar. I think I will wait at least 6 months.
I am not sure if I am brave enough to use it for cooking or salad dressings. I may use it for beauty and cleaning applications until I am more comfortable with the process.
The great thing about this project is that it was free. Have you checked out the prices of organic apple cider vinegar lately? This process was definitely worth the minimal time I have invested in it.
My friend Abbi of Proverbs 31 Living has made homemade vinegar and I encourage you to read her posts for other options/more information.
Have you (or would you ever) made homemade vinegar?
