FOOD & DRINK: Home Brew - Brewing up a delightful tipple

More and more people are having a go at brewing their own booze these days.

It’s a trend which seems to be getting every more popular.

Across the land people of all ages are brewing up a treat in their kitchens, garages, cellars and outhouses – often with memorably fantastic results.

But it is important to go about the hobby in the right way.

Using the correct equipment and the right ingredients means you will become a brewer – and then you and your family and friends can reap the tasty rewards.

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You can buy decent starter kits in plenty of shops across the area, or perhaps online.

A good kit will set you back in the region of around £20.

You will need to ferment your masterpiece in a suitable container.

Many people will utilise a plastic bucket because they are extremely practical and relatively cheap compared to, say, glass containers.

A bucket might look a bit cheap but it’s what is inside that matters.

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The bucket will need to have a close-fitting lid that is suitable for an airlock.

These buckets are available at brewing shops and elsewhere for a reasonable price.

You need to clean everything in advance very carefully and it is a topic it is worth getting advice on from an expert.

Specialist cleaning products can be bought from your brewing supplier.

Spend some money on airtight plastic containers.

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Malt should be kept dry and cool which means it should be fine for six months, but no longer.

Dried yeast will keep, if sealed and chilled, but will deteriorate as time goes on, as is the case with hops.

As with everything, buying the best you can makes all the difference in the end.

There are many books on the subject of home brewing, and you can always get help from shops specialising in home brewing gear, or someone who has had a go at it.

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You can also go online for help where there are specialist websites available, as well as opportunities to get in touch with other home brewing enthusiasts.

Don’t expect miracle results on your first home brewing attempt – but if you’re careful and follow advice and instructions you may well be pleasantly surprised.

As your hobby develops you will learn more and more secrets of creating a creditable brew, and perhaps even be able to add your own little twists to the process and flavour.

The most important thing is to have fun along the way.

We can all drink to that!

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