Beer is a popular alcoholic beverage made from brewing and fermenting grains with yeast, hops and other flavoring agents. It contains varying amounts of alcohol (from 4-6% to 40%).
There are many styles of beer and the types are based on the type of yeast used, fermentation technique and how the beer is filtered. There are also many variations in the flavors of beer and the amount of fruit, nuts, spices or other flavorings incorporated into it.
Ingredients: The main ingredients in beer are water, malt, hops and yeast. The water helps the malt to convert its starch into sugars for the yeast to feed on. The malt is also what gives the beer its flavor and aroma. The hops give it its bitterness and contribute floral and fruity notes as well.
The process:
Before the wort (a combination of malt and water) is fermented, the beer is boiled. This boil is important in killing any microorganisms that may have been lingering in the wort or contaminating the brew. It is also a great way to remove any dissolved solids that can interfere with the yeast during fermentation.
After the wort is cooled, the yeast is added and it begins fermentation. During the process, the yeast consumes almost all of the sugar in the wort and transforms it into alcohol and carbon dioxide.
After the beer is brewed, it is often filtered and bottled or canned and delivered to stores, bars and restaurants that sell it. The process of brewing and distributing beer has been around for thousands of years. It has become a part of the culture and tradition in many nations.
