Beer

[helen99]

In Finland they have a beer called Sahti, which is brewed with a combination of herbs (instead of being brewed with hops). Here is a link that discusses ales made with herbs other than hops. It's an interesting field of study and presents much opportunity for fun geekery.

Comments

[kiarrith]

Traditionally, Sahti was strained through juniper twigs--and got some flavour from that. So these days they just add some twigs to the process for the yums.

I've wanted to try making Sahti for awhile...

[helen99]

I just heard of it for the first time this weekend - sounds like an interesting project.

Here's a link for a couple of recipes (at the bottom of the page): http://www.posbeer.org/oppaat/sahti/brewing.php

Mash made from a combination of certain malts strained through Junipers (or flavored with junipers) seems to be a common thread, but everyone's is slightly different.

[kiarrith]

neat! The Fins I know is where I got the thought it was traditional...but then again, Im sure everyone does things differently over time =D

[helen99]

That's so cool that you got a recipe from people you know from Finland. Probably more reliable than searching on the net.

[elwing2000]

I've actually looked into several gruit recipes as I would like to brew more (instead of just cider), but I don't like hops or the taste of hops. I'm not sure I'd like gruits better, but I'm willing to try. I'll let you know if we actually do brew one to help taste. The only disadvantage to not using hops is that hops is also a preservative, and I've been told that the gruits don't last as long.

[helen99]

We're looking into growing three gruit herbs in particular to brew different types of ale: Myrica Gale, Wild Rosemary, and Yarrow.

[kiarrith]

neat!!
im excited, that sounds so fun.

[iliandriel]

Well it would certainly be much better for you. Beer can be good for you anyway if not overdone but to be made with herbs would add to that health factor.