Four Thieves’ Vinegar

Have you heard of Thieves' Vinegar?

According to legend, four thieves were said to rob the homes of those suffering from illness, and those who had died from the Black Death. The thieves would anoint their bodies in vinegar that had been infused with “protective” herbs that are now known to have antibacterial and antiviral properties. This herbal vinegar was thought to give the thieves an advantage against contracting the illness. It may have also acted as a natural flea repellant, and fleas are a carrier of the plague.

There are various recipes available on line and in print, but the following is my personal recipe. I put it in almost any savory food, & will occasionally put a splash into my water. I do not heat my vinegar, & I don’t strain the blend. Some do, but heating the vinegar will potentially kill the beneficial microbes in the unpasteurized vinegar. The longer the herbs stay in the vinegar the stronger the herbal taste of the vinegar.

In a quart jar combine;

6 – 8 garlic cloves, crushed

3 – 4 sprigs dried sage

3 – 4 sprigs dried thyme

3 – 4 sprigs dried rosemary

1 tsp black peppercorns

1 – 2 dried cayenne peppers or 1 tsp red pepper flakes

Cover with unpasteurized apple cider vinegar and cap with a plastic lid. If you have to use a metal lid, you can use parchment or waxed paper to protect the lid from corrosion. Keep out of direct light & shake daily. I give my vinegar at least a week before use but some recommend waiting for a month. Enjoy & feel free to play with the recipe to make it to your personal taste.