Beer crafting is an ancient art with many levels of complication and nuances, but it comes down to four basic ingredients: hops, grains (or malt extract), water, and yeast. With these simple tools, brewers can create an endless array of styles that originate from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for a frothy stout or an ice-cold lager, there’s a craft beer out there to suit every palate. And, although the majority of beers you’ll find in your local grocery store are mass-produced by a few large beverage conglomerates, there are plenty of independent breweries making their own unique creations.
Most craft beers aren’t filtered or pasteurized which allows them to keep more of the natural plant compounds that give beers their flavor and aroma. These plant compounds can benefit our bodies in various ways including boosting protein synthesis, lowering blood pressure, and promoting bone strength and density.
Aside from the main brewing ingredients, some brewers also use locally-sourced ingredients to support their local community and economy. This can help create more nuanced flavors in the finished product and also reduce the environmental impact of shipping ingredients long distances.
Home brewing is a fun and rewarding hobby that’s perfect for anyone looking to try their hand at creating the perfect pint. There are many all-in-one brewing systems available online that will give you everything you need to get started. The most important thing to remember is to be sure that all equipment you come into contact with is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before starting the brewing process.
