If you’ve ever wanted to make your own beer but were intimidated by the hydrometer, don’t worry, there are plenty of beginner-friendly methods for beer making at home. There are many different ways to make beer at home, but the most important part of this process is the knowledge that you will gain. By using a stick-on thermometer and writing down notes as you brew, you can make your beer at home.
There are many great resources online for those new to the craft. John Palmer’s “How to Brew” is the go-to digital resource. The American Homebrewers Association offers a free guide to extract brewing, as well as a video series. Craft Beer Magazine offers a monthly membership that contains dozens of helpful tips and tricks. And if you’re just starting out, a 1-gallon starter kit will cost you about $50.
Beer crafting in America is an ancient art form that has been around for thousands of years. Evidence of beer recipes dating back to 2000BC shows that people had the knowledge and skill to make it. It quickly became one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the world, consuming over 2 billion hectolitres annually. But how did we get there? With the help of the modern technology we have today, beer recipes and brewing equipment look quite different from those used by our ancestors. And they do it all to benefit us, the brewers and consumers.
When brewing beer, experimentation is key. Try to use unusual ingredients, such as tropical fruits, to make your beer more interesting. Popular craft beers usually have a story to tell about how they came to be. A beer with a story behind it is more special because it has a special story to tell. If you’re new to the craft beer industry, ask your server about popular selections. There’s likely to be an option that will interest you.
