summersolstice

Recipes 

I was just reading another thread regarding the differences between DME and LME. When I use extract, I tend to use LME bought from online vendors with the thought that their turnover is sufficient to ensure fresh LME. The primary reason I prefer LME is that I have so much trouble stirring in the DME and getting the "chunks" to dissolve. I have about 15 pounds of assorted DME and I'd really like to use it in my partial mashes, or whatever, so does anyone have any tips for getting this stuff to readily dissolve?

flyangler18

Recipes 

Take it off the heat, and use a whisk. Stir like hell.

Revvy

Recipes 

The answer is, "Stir, stir, Stir."

To experiment once I dumped the entire 8 or 10 pounds of dme into the water at once, and just kept stirring...eventually it all dissolves in...and your arm is then much stronger.

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BierMuncher

Recipes 

Yep...that stuff is stubborn.

DME turns clingy and sticky if you look at it wrong...then once in the boil pot, refuses to go under and take one for the team.

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TheJadedDog

Recipes 

+1 on taking it off the heat. You should also add it a little at a time, stir that in, then add another little bit (unlike Revvy's method above). This reduces clumping and makes it dissolve faster.

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flyangler18

Recipes 

Yeah, it doesn't take kindly to an increase in humidity - especially with the steam coming off the kettle.

Solstice, I'd measure it out in a bowl. You try pouring it directly out of the bag, and the DME will gum up at the opening. Much cussing and gnashing of teeth will follow.

PseudoChef

Recipes 

Don't use a spoon.

Brew-Happy

Recipes 

I agree with the whisk solution. It worked well for me 2 weeks ago.

After whisking until my arm threaten to revolt, I considering using an electric hand mixer. I might try it next time I brew. Low speed and small amount additions.

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bmckee56

Recipes 

Try picking up a large wire whisk from a restaurant supply house or one of the Bed/Bath and Beyond type stores. Using a small whisk is hard and does not get into the pot deep enough. I have given some thought to using a paint stirrer on a small hand drill. Just thought, no action yet! I am concerned with aerating the wort to much during the boil, but do not know if it matters that much or not.

Salute!

Edit: Wow like minds thinking alike!

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LandofOZ

Recipes 

paint stirer on cordless drill works really well if you tend to be lazzy like me. ugh ugh more power

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