Newest Threads

acesb422 · 01-22-2008, 01:56 AM

I am wanting to get my second batch going asap as everyone seems to suggest. My only question is I have been looking at the extract kits from AHS and am worried that I will not know how to do it all?? My last kit had 3.3lbs liquid malt extract, 2 lbs dried malt extract and a little thing of hops and then ofcourse yeast, but these kits are talking about grains in a muslin bag?? What would i be getting myself into with these kits. I don't do secondary fermenting because I am just beginning. Any help would be great!!

***Yooper*** · 01-22-2008, 01:58 AM

Oh, you can do the AHS kits, I promise! All the directions are provided and it's super simple and easy to do. If you can make hot chocolate from a mix, you can do an extract recipe from them. And, I've done a few of them in the past when I was brewing extracts- they are really good! The ingredients are fresh and make a great beer. You can try a "clone" kit and I think you'll be pleased.

Beerrific · 01-22-2008, 01:59 AM

Some instructions are included and while you are waiting on UPS to deliver, read this:
http://www.howtobrew.com. That should be what you are looking for.

**TheJadedDog** · 01-22-2008, 02:29 AM

AHS kits are a piece of cake, go for it! All you do is steep some grains before adding your extract, the instructions that come with the kit give you all the details you need.

**9/9** · 01-22-2008, 02:30 AM

My first brews have been AHS kits and I have no idea what I was doing and it has been fine. The instructions are clear and easy to follow.

You can do it.

**CodeRage** · 01-22-2008, 02:38 AM

I'll sing the praises of AHB extract kits. I have done several of them and they all have been great. Follow the directions and you'll be set

Gammon N Beer · 01-22-2008, 02:40 AM

I am assuming you liked the experience of your first brew that you want to continue. If that is true, then, why not take one step further into the hobby?

Steeping grain is nothing more than you would do when making tea. It is that simple.

go for it.

jvh261 · 01-22-2008, 02:53 AM

You'll definitely want to start steeping grains on your extract brews. Makes a world of difference. Its as easy as this:

1. Put the grains in the muslin bag (I'm sure the ones from AHS in the kit will already be cracked/milled).
2. Put the bag full of grains (tied off) in your water.
3. Heat and hold a fixed temperature for a fixed time. I'm sure the directions in the kit will specify.
4. Remove the bag of grains and let drain over your water and/or sparge. Don't squeeze!
5. Discard the bag of grains, bring to a boil and carry on as you would with your normal additions of the extract and hops duties.

My only suggestion would be to buy a floating thermometer sooner than later. Its important to hold the temp of your water to around 155 - 170 degrees when your grains are in there. Depends on the recipe and the grains used. You don't want to boil your grains or get them much higher than 170 or so.

mikeyc · 01-22-2008, 03:00 AM

Another vote for the AHS kits. They are very easy to use, and make GREAT beer. Its a great way to get started. Pick a commercial brew that you like, and get a clone recipe. They yeild great results!!!!

**AFAJ Brew Guy** · 01-22-2008, 04:11 AM

I have been wondering about this as well. Well thats makes the decision a lot easier. Thanks, off to order that irish read right now. Thanks!