Grains of Paradise

[Reverend JC]

I am making an English IPA in the next few weeks. I was originally thinking of making a smoked one, that thought has been shelved for now. What i am contemplaiting now is one with some grains of paradise in there.

With the sublte earthy flavors of the english version of an IPA i am thinking that some peppery spicyness from the grains of paradise would really add a great level of flavor.

Thoughts? suggestions?

 

[Aspera]

I would use 1/4 of a teaspoon or less, crushed with a morter and pestle. It adds a very pleasant flavor to low gravity ales.

 

[TexLaw]

I'd keep it low, also, just in the background. In the background, that could be very nice. In the foreground, it might just seem like a phenolic IPA.


TL

 

[avidhomebrewer]

Really not the place for grains of paradise, but, as suggested, if you keep it very low, you should be fine. Definitely don't let it get too overpowering; otherwise, you will be disappointed.

 

[Reverend JC]

Ok, i have never used them before. only 1/4 teaspoon is all i should add? I agree, i do not want this to be a stand out item in the beer. I do like the idea of a very very subtle peppery note.


Should i go a touch less than a 1/4 teaspoon?

Again i have never used the grains of paradise so i am in the dark on this one.

 

[Professor Frink]

I agree, no more than 1/4 teaspoon, that is some potent stuff.