Overview of The Different Steps In Homebrewing Beer

Thinking of homebrewing your own beer but don’t know where to start? Unfortunately, there’s a lot of bad information floating around out there on the subject, forcing many newcomers to speculate whether or not it’s worth trying. If you happen to take the wrong approach to your homebrewed beer, you could end up with a rancid, undrinkable batch. For a better understanding of the steps necessary create homebrewed beer, keep reading.

Step #1) Mixing Malt and Hops

The first step in homebreweing beer is to mix the malt and hops together in large pot of water for about an hour. The mixture is brought to a boil so the hop and malt flavors will infuse the water (see image above for an example of this step). It’s important to note that some people prefer malt and hop liquid extract since they’re easier and more convenient to use.

Step #2) Fermenting

Once the ingredients have cooked for a bout an hour, it’s time to begin the fermenting process. The mixture (known as wort) is removed front the stove or heat source and left to cool. Upon cooling, the wort is placed in an air-tight container along with the addition of yeast to convert the sugars to alcohol. It’s important to note that air-tight containers are a must during this step, as the wort won’t ferment if gasses are allowed to escape.

Step #3) Bottling

The time required for fermenting homebrewed beer varies depending on a number of different factors, some of which include the amount of wort, yeast, heat, etc. With that said, a good rule of thumb is to allow your wort to ferment for at least 3-4 weeks. This should be enough time to convert most of the sugars into alcohol.

When your wort has finished fermenting, you’ll want to transfer it into bottles. This step is critical to preserving the quality of your newly homebrewed beer, and it’s also something that many new homebrewers underestimate. If you’re going to homebrew beer, invest in a quality bottling kit that creates a secure, air-tight seal; otherwise, all of your hard work could be for nothing once the beer spoils from air exposure.

Step #4) Almost There…

It’s a common assumption among first-time homebrewers that beer is ready to drink after bottling. Even if it tastes fine, allowing it to age for just a couple more weeks will likely improve its flavor, aroma and texture. Instead of popping the cap, set your newly bottled homebrewed beers off to the side and let them age for a week or two.