As October rolls around and Halloween looms, there's one beverage that's sure to get beer enthusiasts excited: pumpkin beer. Love it or hate it, this seasonal brew has made quite a splash in the craft beer world. If you're interested in making your own, keep reading to learn more about world of pumpkin/pumpkin spice brewing and discover why it's worth giving this ale a go.
The Rise of the Pumpkin
Pumpkin beer isn't a new fad but a revival of a very old style. The modern resurgence began in the 1980s, thanks to Buffalo Bill's Brewery. Unlike most modern recipes, they used pumpkin pie spices (Cinnamon, nutmeg, clove & allspice) rather than actual pumpkin, kickstarting a trend that rivals IPA sales during its peak season.
Why Brew with Pumpkin/Pumpkin Spice?
You might be thinking, "Why bother with pumpkin beer?" Well, here's the thing: brewing this style can teach you a lot. Pumpkin is a tricky flavour to capture in beer, and there's always value in stepping outside your brewing comfort zone. Plus, who doesn't love a good seasonal challenge?
Choosing Your Pumpkin Path
When it comes to brewing pumpkin beer, you've got options:
- Real Pumpkin: Use at least 2kg of pie pumpkins for a 23-litre batch. The type of pumpkin matters. Flavourful pumpkins make flavourful beer. But pumpkins are an autumn harvest, so depending on whether you are in the northern or southern hemisphere, you may have to settle for canned food.
- Canned Pumpkin: A convenient alternative, but check the ingredients to ensure it's pure pumpkin.
- Pumpkin Pie Spices: Many brewers use allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon to mimic that pumpkin pie flavour.
- Combination Approach: Use real pumpkin for authenticity and spices for that familiar pumpkin pie kick.
The Brewing Process
If you're using real pumpkin, here's a quick guide:
- Halve and bake the pumpkin
- Scoop out the flesh
- Add to the mash or fermentation with some enzymes.
For spices, add them near the end of the boil to retain flavour. Start with small amounts - you can always add more later.
So, are you ready to brew up some Halloween magic? Whether you're a pumpkin beer lover or a sceptic, brewing your own might just change your perspective. After all, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of crafting your own seasonal brew. Cheers to brewing adventures!
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