Beer Encyclopedia
Everything you need to know about homebrewing beer
intermediate21 daysbeverage
Brewing Process
Beer brewing follows a systematic process that transforms grain, hops, and yeast into a complex beverage.
Mashing
Crushed malted barley is steeped in hot water (148-158°F) for 60-90 minutes. Enzymes convert starches to fermentable sugars. This creates the sweet liquid called wort.
Boiling & Hopping
Wort is boiled for 60 minutes. Hops are added at different times: bittering hops early (60 min), flavor hops mid-boil (15-30 min), and aroma hops late (0-5 min). Boiling sterilizes and concentrates the wort.
Cooling & Pitching
Wort must cool quickly to 65-70°F (ale) or 45-55°F (lager). Add yeast once cooled. Yeast converts sugars to alcohol and CO2.
Fermentation
Primary fermentation takes 1-2 weeks. Active bubbling decreases as fermentation completes. Gravity readings stabilize when done. Secondary fermentation optional for clarity.
Bottling & Conditioning
Add priming sugar (corn sugar) to finished beer. Bottle and cap. Yeast carbonates beer over 2 weeks at room temperature. Chill and enjoy!
Beer Styles
Understanding basic beer styles helps you choose recipes and develop your brewing skills.