Hello Everyone!
I know I promised a recipe around last week, but didn't like any of them.
They all need a little work, so I decided to pull out one of my old favorites.
This Beer Batter can be used to dip all sorts of veggies, fish, shrimp, crab meat.
Beer Batter
Ingredients:
3/4 cup of All Purpose Flour
3/4 cup of Corn Starch
1/2 tsp. Baking Soda
1 Tbsp. of Powdered Sugar
2 tsp. of Kosher Salt
1/8 tsp. of Garlic Powder
1/8 tsp. of Onion Powder
1/8 tsp. of Cayenne pepper
1/8 tsp. of Smoked Paprika
1/4 tsp. of Fresh Ground Pepper (I like the 4 mixed Peppercorns)
1 Tbsp. of Apple Cider Vinegar or Rice Vinegar
10 ounces of A Pilsner or Pale Ale
Vegetable, Soy, or Peanut Oil for Frying.
(I like Peanut oil the best, because it has a higher smoke point.)
* For vegetables with a high water content like Onions and Peppers,
use a Freezer bag with a 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 tsp. of salt, pinch of pepper,
and shake them to evenly coat, before putting into the batter.
Sift all the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Then add Vinegar and Beer while stirring.
The mixture should be smooth and creamy like thin pancake batter. The frying oil should be at 375 degrees before frying. Fry until golden brown, drain, and set aside on a drip screen or paper towels. If using this batter on seafood, squeeze a little lemon on top before serving.
Well I hope you will enjoy this recipe. Like I always say, change things around and experiment. Say you don't like garlic, use another spice. Make it your own. Enjoy!
"Be Well, and Drink Well!" Or in this case, "Be Well, and Eat Well!"
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
5 Beer Review
Hello once again!
I thought I'd start this blog out with a little refresher on how I rate beers. You would have to make a completely awful beer for me to give it a 0. I like beers of all kinds. I also give each beer a little explanation of what it tastes like and what it is paired with, food wise. The following is a recap on the rating system.
1) "It's a lonely number". So leave this one alone because that is why is by itself. Truth be told I have a "1" beer every now and again to make sure it wasn't me.
2) Is the "Not Bad" of beers. Drinkable, but it just has to much of something or not enough. Usually the type of beers you find in your regular everyday bar.
3) The "Middle Of The Road". It's usually tasty, but not spectacular. They are usually the everyday type of beer. The kind you buy because well everyone will drink it and not complain.
4) "Now That Is Something" Beer. There is just something about it. Has flavor and balance. The little extra that makes you stick in the back of the fridge behind all the other beer so other people don't see it.
5) The "WOW" Beer. Complex, different, and all around tasty beverage. This beer is usually brought to special occasions or bought during a great night out. Usually a little more expensive, but not always. The kind of beer you want to start your night on.
6) "You got to try this beer". Pretty self explanatory. Once you taste it you want everyone to try it. A beer you hold dear. It sounds stupid, but it's the kind off beer that makes you happy that you have it.
7) "Special Reserve". This is usually saved for the cream of the crop. A beer you'd collect. A refined type of beer. I have only a few I put up on this pedestal.
Just Rothy and I for this tasting. Now onto the beer!
Rogue XS Imperial Red by Rogue Brewery. I was expecting a little more out of this, but all in all, not bad. It poured a dark red with a brownish foam head. The nose had a little spice, some hoppy, some dried fruit like apricot, and some roasted malt. The mouth feel was moderate.
The taste had roasted malt flavor with a strong hop to it. I would have to say more hoppy then malty. Rothy's two cents on this beer was "It tastes burnt". The after taste was clean and a bit of hop flavor stuck around. A food pairing on this would have to be something meaty, like a Blackened Steak with Garlic and Herd Baked Potato.
Website: http://www.rogue.com/beers/imperial-red.php
Rogue MoM Hefeweizen by Rogue Brewery. The second Rogue beer we tried this night. It does try to say it's Belgian style but really doesn't have that taste to it. It poured with a light straw color to an almost pale blond, with a white thin head. Not to much smell came off it, but I did get some spice from the yeast. Mouth feel was light and crisp. The tastes notes were that of a little citrus upfront, working towards the middle was a ginger spice, and a light malt finish. Rothy noted that it had a "club soda feel to it". The after taste I did get a faint hint of ginger. I would pair this with some a Fillet of Flounder with a nice Wine Sauce, or even Spicy Chicken Wings.
Website: http://www.rogue.com/beers/half-e-weizen.php
Lucifer Belgian Strong Pale Ale by Brouwerij Het Anker. I have wanted to try this for a while. I have had the Lucifer from Duval, and that I really liked. It poured a orange/goldish color to it with a white creamy head. The nose had a spicy, green apple, clove, and citrus. The mouth feel was moderate. The taste had some citrus, Belgian candy, a little apple, a little yeasty, and spice. It finished dry, with very little after taste. Rothy pointed out that with this beer, he could only have it with a meal. With that being said, I would pair it with a Braised Lamb Chops and Candied Peppered Pears.
Website: http://www.hetanker.be/en/beers/lucifer.html
Blanche De Chambly by Unibroue Brewery. A Canadian beer that is different from Molson or Labatt. This pours a slight cloudy pale yellow with a thick head on top. The was not to much of a smell on this one as well, but I did pick up a lemon zest and sweet pear. The mouth feel was light. Rothy once again pointed out another one that was like club soda. The taste was light and had hints of a little citrus, a little pear, and a little wheat malt. It finished up cleanly with no real after taste. This was not one of my favorites, but I would not turn it down if someone handed it to me. To pair this with food, I would suggest what ever it is, it should not be to spicy or of a strong taste. This would make a good sandwich beer, or picnic beer.
Website: http://www.unibroue.com/en/home/
Amber Sun Ale by 16 Mile Brewery. I was taken a little back by this beer in a good way, was not what I was expecting. Rothy thought it was good for the summer but he wouldn't drink it year round. I do not agree, but at the same time, I do like my winter warmers. It poured with what I would call a sunset red/orange with a small tan head. The nose was a little citrus, dark fruits, and caramel malt. Mouth feel was light and almost creamy. The taste was malty, some mixed fruit flavors, and light touch of citrus. Finished up nice and clean. One of those beers that would go great with the outdoors. Fire up the pit! Roast Pig and Grilled Pineapples would go great with this beer. It is good to find another "Craft Brewery" in Delaware.
Website: http://www.16milebrewery.com/
I know I said I'd have a few food recipes up this week, but got a little sidetracked by life this weekend. Hopefully have some by the end of the week. Next week I'll have another Extract beer recipe. "Be Well, Drink Well!"
I thought I'd start this blog out with a little refresher on how I rate beers. You would have to make a completely awful beer for me to give it a 0. I like beers of all kinds. I also give each beer a little explanation of what it tastes like and what it is paired with, food wise. The following is a recap on the rating system.
1) "It's a lonely number". So leave this one alone because that is why is by itself. Truth be told I have a "1" beer every now and again to make sure it wasn't me.
2) Is the "Not Bad" of beers. Drinkable, but it just has to much of something or not enough. Usually the type of beers you find in your regular everyday bar.
3) The "Middle Of The Road". It's usually tasty, but not spectacular. They are usually the everyday type of beer. The kind you buy because well everyone will drink it and not complain.
4) "Now That Is Something" Beer. There is just something about it. Has flavor and balance. The little extra that makes you stick in the back of the fridge behind all the other beer so other people don't see it.
5) The "WOW" Beer. Complex, different, and all around tasty beverage. This beer is usually brought to special occasions or bought during a great night out. Usually a little more expensive, but not always. The kind of beer you want to start your night on.
6) "You got to try this beer". Pretty self explanatory. Once you taste it you want everyone to try it. A beer you hold dear. It sounds stupid, but it's the kind off beer that makes you happy that you have it.
7) "Special Reserve". This is usually saved for the cream of the crop. A beer you'd collect. A refined type of beer. I have only a few I put up on this pedestal.
Just Rothy and I for this tasting. Now onto the beer!
Rogue XS Imperial Red by Rogue Brewery. I was expecting a little more out of this, but all in all, not bad. It poured a dark red with a brownish foam head. The nose had a little spice, some hoppy, some dried fruit like apricot, and some roasted malt. The mouth feel was moderate.The taste had roasted malt flavor with a strong hop to it. I would have to say more hoppy then malty. Rothy's two cents on this beer was "It tastes burnt". The after taste was clean and a bit of hop flavor stuck around. A food pairing on this would have to be something meaty, like a Blackened Steak with Garlic and Herd Baked Potato.
Website: http://www.rogue.com/beers/imperial-red.php
Rogue MoM Hefeweizen by Rogue Brewery. The second Rogue beer we tried this night. It does try to say it's Belgian style but really doesn't have that taste to it. It poured with a light straw color to an almost pale blond, with a white thin head. Not to much smell came off it, but I did get some spice from the yeast. Mouth feel was light and crisp. The tastes notes were that of a little citrus upfront, working towards the middle was a ginger spice, and a light malt finish. Rothy noted that it had a "club soda feel to it". The after taste I did get a faint hint of ginger. I would pair this with some a Fillet of Flounder with a nice Wine Sauce, or even Spicy Chicken Wings.Website: http://www.rogue.com/beers/half-e-weizen.php
Lucifer Belgian Strong Pale Ale by Brouwerij Het Anker. I have wanted to try this for a while. I have had the Lucifer from Duval, and that I really liked. It poured a orange/goldish color to it with a white creamy head. The nose had a spicy, green apple, clove, and citrus. The mouth feel was moderate. The taste had some citrus, Belgian candy, a little apple, a little yeasty, and spice. It finished dry, with very little after taste. Rothy pointed out that with this beer, he could only have it with a meal. With that being said, I would pair it with a Braised Lamb Chops and Candied Peppered Pears.Website: http://www.hetanker.be/en/beers/lucifer.html
Blanche De Chambly by Unibroue Brewery. A Canadian beer that is different from Molson or Labatt. This pours a slight cloudy pale yellow with a thick head on top. The was not to much of a smell on this one as well, but I did pick up a lemon zest and sweet pear. The mouth feel was light. Rothy once again pointed out another one that was like club soda. The taste was light and had hints of a little citrus, a little pear, and a little wheat malt. It finished up cleanly with no real after taste. This was not one of my favorites, but I would not turn it down if someone handed it to me. To pair this with food, I would suggest what ever it is, it should not be to spicy or of a strong taste. This would make a good sandwich beer, or picnic beer.Website: http://www.unibroue.com/en/home/
Amber Sun Ale by 16 Mile Brewery. I was taken a little back by this beer in a good way, was not what I was expecting. Rothy thought it was good for the summer but he wouldn't drink it year round. I do not agree, but at the same time, I do like my winter warmers. It poured with what I would call a sunset red/orange with a small tan head. The nose was a little citrus, dark fruits, and caramel malt. Mouth feel was light and almost creamy. The taste was malty, some mixed fruit flavors, and light touch of citrus. Finished up nice and clean. One of those beers that would go great with the outdoors. Fire up the pit! Roast Pig and Grilled Pineapples would go great with this beer. It is good to find another "Craft Brewery" in Delaware.Website: http://www.16milebrewery.com/
I know I said I'd have a few food recipes up this week, but got a little sidetracked by life this weekend. Hopefully have some by the end of the week. Next week I'll have another Extract beer recipe. "Be Well, Drink Well!"
Friday, May 21, 2010
One Off Tasting
Hello Everyone!!
This blog is LITTLE RANDOM. Going into the beer fridge we found some gems that I forgot that I had bought at my local beer store. Funny thing is that they all had a similar tastes: Rich, Dark, and Malty. Jay, Rothy, Boozer X, and myself on hand to try these beer. Honestly, Jay once again was no help. Why do I included Jay one may ask? I've known Jay for 27 years and well I can get rid of him, no actually, we are pretty much brothers in crime. He will always be there and vise versa. So on with the tasting.
Kasteel Donker from Brouwerij Van Honsebrouck N.V. ABV of a whopping 11.0%. The nose of straight sweet malt and a little fruit. It poured with a dark cream colored head and a dark reddish brown body. The taste had a caramel candy, a little heat, and a really sweet after taste, with some dried cherry. Mouth feel had some body but not really heavy. Rothy really like this one. As for Jay he was alright with it, but was more concerned with playing beer pong. Boozer X and I, both agreed it was a little sweet for our taste. I would consider this an after dinner drink to sip on. To make a food pairing on this would be hard. It would have it to be served on its own, but Cherries Jubilee or Baked Alaska would go with it.Website: http://www.vanhonsebrouck.be/
Railbender Ale from Erie Brewing Company. The nose on this was of caramel malt and a very slight hint of flowers. It poured with a reddish brown color with a small cream head. It tasted like a light malted milk shake. Some hints of caramel malt, brown sugar, and a little yeasty spice. Not to much going on with this beer, Had a club soda feel to it. The mouth feel was light and had no real after taste. Boozer X, Rothy, and I just thought it lacked any "Wow!" factor. Although having 6.80% ABV. and not having any strong alcohol taste, you could get in real trouble with this beer. I would not pair this up with any really strong foods. Simple home style Mac 'n' Cheese, Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs, and some good ole Corn on the Cob.Website: http://www.eriebrewingco.com/
Pike Kilt Lifter from Pike Seattle Brewing Co. A lot of people told me that I should try this one and that I would "Love" it. Don't get me wrong, it was tasty, but not in "Love" with it. When poured it has a dark reddish brown color and off-white large bubbly head. The nose on this was a mild malt, a little flowery, and a hint earthy hops. The mouth feel was a little heavy with some alcohol heat. The taste had a balanced between malt and hops. Little spice and dried fruit in the after taste. I did get a little bit of roast malt flavor. All in all, a nice beer to try. Since it is a Scotch Ale, I will pair this with a Deep Fried Pizza. Oh so good, yet oh so bad for you.Website: http://www.pikebrewing.com/
I would suggest everyone to try these beers for yourself. As you can tell from my blogs, that I have my own taste. You should find your own. Pick up something you have never tried and you might just be surprised. As many different types of people in the world, their almost that many types of beer. I've written this before, but it is true. Have a beer adventure! "Be well, and drink well!"
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Monk's Cafe
Hi Everybody,
The crew on this taste adventure are as follows:
Boozer X: My Comrade at arms and part of my pack. Always up to drink a few beers.
Jay: My oldest and dearest friend. Likes liquor more but I don't hold that against him.
Sylvia: A really sweet woman and friend. I would say more but it would be kind of rude. ;{)
The Beer Dawg: I myself and nobody else.
http://www.monkscafe.com/
Okay stole this picture from Monk's Cafe Website. Quite honestly, a way better picture then the one I took. From the picture you can guess that I and a couple of my friends went here for the "Monk's Sour Flemish Ale". It is voted as one of the "Must have Beers" in all of Beerdom. From GQ magazine to any other beer magazine, it is rated very highly. I, myself, have had it on numerous occasions, but this will be the first time reviewing it.
Monk's Sour Flemish Ale made only for Monk's Cafe from Van Steenberge brewery. ABV of 5.5 to 6%, (Quite honestly I got conflicting reports on the ABV., but its a tasty beer). I had it straight from the tap. Rich red color and a nice little head that laced the glass. The nose on it was fruity, a little spice, and tart. "A naughty little bit of crumpet". The mouth feel was light and quite refreshing. Boozer X tasted it and he wasn't expecting the sour to be predominate. He said "It's like drinking Sour Patch Kids". I would have to agree with that. The taste had sour in your face to it with, sweet dark fruits, candy, and sweet malt flavor. The finish was of a sweet and sour. A little more on the sour end but still nice. Jay didn't care for it to much, and Sylvia thought it was different.
I on the other hand, love this beer. It's fantastic! It is a must try if you are ever in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I have it every time I'm at Monk's Cafe. On my rating scale I give it a 6.5, because it is so unique. Most people do not ever try a beer like this. Major "Wow" factor. It is most likely one of the most interesting beers you will ever get to taste.
Now we set aside the beer for the food review. Before I get into the food I'd like to describe the place. I nice little cafe in the heart of the city, with two bars. It is small place, but what it doesn't have in size it makes up in heart. The atmosphere is of any great pub you have ever been to. Busy, regulars running about, first timers, and beer enthusiasts, all rolled up into one. Most nights this place is packed. Seating is usually a 1/2 hour to an hour. Now onto the food review.
I had the Steak Sandwich: a 5oz NY strip steak, grilled to order (medium well), on an Italian roll with lettuce, minus the tomato, raw onion & mayo. It was so tasty. At first thought, I saw this little steak on a hoagie roll and wasn't to happy. One bite and I didn't stop eating it until it was finished. I was really good. the perfect amount of char, the seasoning was perfect, and the mayo gave it a very nice little kick. It also had a small micro green salad on the side that was delicious. I give my meal an A+.
Boozer X ordered the "Pomme Frites", French fries to those who don't know. Came with a spicy horseradish mayo. Lightly seasoned fries, was a nice complement to the beers. Everyone said they were "O.K.", but I say they were awesome. Also the fact that we finished them would give a clue to how good they are.
Jay opted for the liquid dinner, but Sylvia order the chicken fingers. I didn't know chicken had fingers, but that didn't really matter because we are pretty sure that they were "Frog Legs" that were on the menu. I personally didn't get to taste them, but everyone else tried them. This led to Jay's only major contribution to the night was in this following phrase:
"Chicken Fingers. Awesome! That's it".
With this all being said, Monk's Cafe is a "MUST" to visit if you are ever in the city. That is all. "Good Day and Happy Drinking"!
The crew on this taste adventure are as follows:
Boozer X: My Comrade at arms and part of my pack. Always up to drink a few beers.
Jay: My oldest and dearest friend. Likes liquor more but I don't hold that against him.
Sylvia: A really sweet woman and friend. I would say more but it would be kind of rude. ;{)
The Beer Dawg: I myself and nobody else.
http://www.monkscafe.com/Okay stole this picture from Monk's Cafe Website. Quite honestly, a way better picture then the one I took. From the picture you can guess that I and a couple of my friends went here for the "Monk's Sour Flemish Ale". It is voted as one of the "Must have Beers" in all of Beerdom. From GQ magazine to any other beer magazine, it is rated very highly. I, myself, have had it on numerous occasions, but this will be the first time reviewing it.
Monk's Sour Flemish Ale made only for Monk's Cafe from Van Steenberge brewery. ABV of 5.5 to 6%, (Quite honestly I got conflicting reports on the ABV., but its a tasty beer). I had it straight from the tap. Rich red color and a nice little head that laced the glass. The nose on it was fruity, a little spice, and tart. "A naughty little bit of crumpet". The mouth feel was light and quite refreshing. Boozer X tasted it and he wasn't expecting the sour to be predominate. He said "It's like drinking Sour Patch Kids". I would have to agree with that. The taste had sour in your face to it with, sweet dark fruits, candy, and sweet malt flavor. The finish was of a sweet and sour. A little more on the sour end but still nice. Jay didn't care for it to much, and Sylvia thought it was different.
I on the other hand, love this beer. It's fantastic! It is a must try if you are ever in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I have it every time I'm at Monk's Cafe. On my rating scale I give it a 6.5, because it is so unique. Most people do not ever try a beer like this. Major "Wow" factor. It is most likely one of the most interesting beers you will ever get to taste.
Now we set aside the beer for the food review. Before I get into the food I'd like to describe the place. I nice little cafe in the heart of the city, with two bars. It is small place, but what it doesn't have in size it makes up in heart. The atmosphere is of any great pub you have ever been to. Busy, regulars running about, first timers, and beer enthusiasts, all rolled up into one. Most nights this place is packed. Seating is usually a 1/2 hour to an hour. Now onto the food review.
I had the Steak Sandwich: a 5oz NY strip steak, grilled to order (medium well), on an Italian roll with lettuce, minus the tomato, raw onion & mayo. It was so tasty. At first thought, I saw this little steak on a hoagie roll and wasn't to happy. One bite and I didn't stop eating it until it was finished. I was really good. the perfect amount of char, the seasoning was perfect, and the mayo gave it a very nice little kick. It also had a small micro green salad on the side that was delicious. I give my meal an A+.
Boozer X ordered the "Pomme Frites", French fries to those who don't know. Came with a spicy horseradish mayo. Lightly seasoned fries, was a nice complement to the beers. Everyone said they were "O.K.", but I say they were awesome. Also the fact that we finished them would give a clue to how good they are.
Jay opted for the liquid dinner, but Sylvia order the chicken fingers. I didn't know chicken had fingers, but that didn't really matter because we are pretty sure that they were "Frog Legs" that were on the menu. I personally didn't get to taste them, but everyone else tried them. This led to Jay's only major contribution to the night was in this following phrase:
"Chicken Fingers. Awesome! That's it".
With this all being said, Monk's Cafe is a "MUST" to visit if you are ever in the city. That is all. "Good Day and Happy Drinking"!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Sunny Summer Ale Recipe
Another Recipe for all to enjoy!
This is a nice simple recipe to play with. Tweak it the way you want. I like it simply the way it is. Nice, light, and great after cutting the lawn.
My recipes are pretty much the same in layout. No really difficult or complicated.
"Sunny Summer Ale"
What you'll need:
5 gal. Filtered Water
7lbs. Filtered Ice
1tsp. Ground Cinnamon
2oz. Lemon Zest
4oz. Raw Honey
1oz. Seeds of Paradise Crushed
2lbs. Extra Light Liquid Malt
4lbs. Wheat Liquid Malt
1/8lb. Cara-Pils Crushed
1/4lb. Rye Crushed
3/4lb. Aromatic (Barley)Crushed
1/8lb. Wheat Crushed
1oz. Horizon Hops or Cascade Hops
1oz. Fuggle Hops
1oz. Liberty hops or Mt. Hood
1 Tube of California Ale Yeast
or
1 package of Ale Yeast
Making the Wort or Beer Soup.
First pour 3 gallons of water into a 5 gallon pot. Bring the water temperature up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit and turn of the stove.
Then place your grains in a steeping bag or sock and place it into the pot. Let it sit for a half hour.
Then remove the bag from the pot, letting most of the liquid drain and discard. Do not squeeze the bag. Bring the pot back up to a boil. When you have a nice rolling boil drop in 1oz. of the Horizon Hops or Cascade Hops. Let it boil for another half hour.
Then add 1oz. of Fuggle Hops, 2lbs of Extra light Liquid Malt and 6lbs. or Wheat Liquid Malt, 1 tsp. of ground Cinnamon, 2oz. of Lemon Zest, and Crushed Seeds of Paradise. Let boil for 25 minutes. Stay close to adjust the heat so you don't get a boil over.
Then add the Liberty hops or Mt. Hood and let boil for 5 more minutes. Then turn off the stove. Let this sit for about 20 minutes with a lid on it.
Place ice into your 5&1/2 or 6 gallon fermenting bucket. Now place a strainer on top of the bucket and strain the pot into the bucket. Be careful the wort is still hot. Discard the left over stuff in the strainer, (I put it in the compost heap). Then add the rest of the water to the bucket, making sure it gets to the fill line on the side of the bucket.
Take the temperature of the wort. If it is around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit add the yeast. If it is not let it sit, covered, until it does. Then seal the bucket with the air lock and store in a cool, clean place, for about a week.
Transfer it to a glass carboy with an air lock, for about another week.
Then transfer to a bottling bucket and mix in the 4oz. of Raw Honey.
Bottle the beer and cap it. Let it sit in a cool place for another week and then refrigerate or not and enjoy.
Until next time, Happy Brewing!
This is a nice simple recipe to play with. Tweak it the way you want. I like it simply the way it is. Nice, light, and great after cutting the lawn.
My recipes are pretty much the same in layout. No really difficult or complicated.
"Sunny Summer Ale"
What you'll need:
5 gal. Filtered Water
7lbs. Filtered Ice
1tsp. Ground Cinnamon
2oz. Lemon Zest
4oz. Raw Honey
1oz. Seeds of Paradise Crushed
2lbs. Extra Light Liquid Malt
4lbs. Wheat Liquid Malt
1/8lb. Cara-Pils Crushed
1/4lb. Rye Crushed
3/4lb. Aromatic (Barley)Crushed
1/8lb. Wheat Crushed
1oz. Horizon Hops or Cascade Hops
1oz. Fuggle Hops
1oz. Liberty hops or Mt. Hood
1 Tube of California Ale Yeast
or
1 package of Ale Yeast
Making the Wort or Beer Soup.
First pour 3 gallons of water into a 5 gallon pot. Bring the water temperature up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit and turn of the stove.
Then place your grains in a steeping bag or sock and place it into the pot. Let it sit for a half hour.
Then remove the bag from the pot, letting most of the liquid drain and discard. Do not squeeze the bag. Bring the pot back up to a boil. When you have a nice rolling boil drop in 1oz. of the Horizon Hops or Cascade Hops. Let it boil for another half hour.
Then add 1oz. of Fuggle Hops, 2lbs of Extra light Liquid Malt and 6lbs. or Wheat Liquid Malt, 1 tsp. of ground Cinnamon, 2oz. of Lemon Zest, and Crushed Seeds of Paradise. Let boil for 25 minutes. Stay close to adjust the heat so you don't get a boil over.
Then add the Liberty hops or Mt. Hood and let boil for 5 more minutes. Then turn off the stove. Let this sit for about 20 minutes with a lid on it.
Place ice into your 5&1/2 or 6 gallon fermenting bucket. Now place a strainer on top of the bucket and strain the pot into the bucket. Be careful the wort is still hot. Discard the left over stuff in the strainer, (I put it in the compost heap). Then add the rest of the water to the bucket, making sure it gets to the fill line on the side of the bucket.
Take the temperature of the wort. If it is around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit add the yeast. If it is not let it sit, covered, until it does. Then seal the bucket with the air lock and store in a cool, clean place, for about a week.
Transfer it to a glass carboy with an air lock, for about another week.
Then transfer to a bottling bucket and mix in the 4oz. of Raw Honey.
Bottle the beer and cap it. Let it sit in a cool place for another week and then refrigerate or not and enjoy.
Until next time, Happy Brewing!
Beertails!?!
Hello World!
So I was looking up mixed beers drinks. Surprising there is a lot of them. I picked out a few of them to post, but I really had a hard time trying to figure out what the call them. Beertails is okay, then you have CockBeers which is a little rude and reminds me of the movie "Basketball". So whatever you want to call them, go ahead. I'll stick with Beertails. The ones I have had, they have a (*) next to the name. The rest of them I would like to try.
Michelada*:
Beer in a glass filled with ice.
Juice of one small lemon.
Dash of soy, Tabasco and Worcestershire.
Pinch of salt and pepper.
Shot of Tequila
Isar water*:
A wheat beer
Blue Curaçao
Apple or Orange juice.
The Classic Shandy (Shandygaff)*:
Beer mixed with ginger beer, ginger ale or lemonade.
Yorsh*:
Russian for beer with a lot of vodka in it.
Maui Mouthwash:
Fruit beer
Rum
Vodka
Blue Curacao
Pineapple juice
Teacher Creature:
12 oz Scottish ale
1 oz blended Scotch
1 oz Drambuie
Large pint glass with no ice
Black Velvet*:
A stout mixed with champagne.
The next couple of Beertails are just mixed with different kinds of soda:
Broadway*:
Sapporo with the lemon-lime flavored Ramune soda, or any lemon-lime soda.
Black Bart*:
A stout mixed with a cola
Colaweizen:
A hefeweizin beer mixed with a cola.
The following one I found on a college website. I don't know if it any good but did sound interesting.
Pink Panty Droppers:
6 pack of 16 oz beers
1.75 of your favorite vodka
1 packet of lemonade powder
This was an interesting look into what most people think is a solitary beverage. Beertails are a lot more common nowadays. Quite a few fancy restaurants in the large cities have their "Signature Beer Cocktail". The moral of the blog is "Don't be afraid to try something new, because you might like it." That's all for now, "Bottom's Up!".
So I was looking up mixed beers drinks. Surprising there is a lot of them. I picked out a few of them to post, but I really had a hard time trying to figure out what the call them. Beertails is okay, then you have CockBeers which is a little rude and reminds me of the movie "Basketball". So whatever you want to call them, go ahead. I'll stick with Beertails. The ones I have had, they have a (*) next to the name. The rest of them I would like to try.
Michelada*:
Beer in a glass filled with ice.
Juice of one small lemon.
Dash of soy, Tabasco and Worcestershire.
Pinch of salt and pepper.
Shot of Tequila
Isar water*:
A wheat beer
Blue Curaçao
Apple or Orange juice.
The Classic Shandy (Shandygaff)*:
Beer mixed with ginger beer, ginger ale or lemonade.
Yorsh*:
Russian for beer with a lot of vodka in it.
Maui Mouthwash:
Fruit beer
Rum
Vodka
Blue Curacao
Pineapple juice
Teacher Creature:
12 oz Scottish ale
1 oz blended Scotch
1 oz Drambuie
Large pint glass with no ice
Black Velvet*:
A stout mixed with champagne.
The next couple of Beertails are just mixed with different kinds of soda:
Broadway*:
Sapporo with the lemon-lime flavored Ramune soda, or any lemon-lime soda.
Black Bart*:
A stout mixed with a cola
Colaweizen:
A hefeweizin beer mixed with a cola.
The following one I found on a college website. I don't know if it any good but did sound interesting.
Pink Panty Droppers:
6 pack of 16 oz beers
1.75 of your favorite vodka
1 packet of lemonade powder
This was an interesting look into what most people think is a solitary beverage. Beertails are a lot more common nowadays. Quite a few fancy restaurants in the large cities have their "Signature Beer Cocktail". The moral of the blog is "Don't be afraid to try something new, because you might like it." That's all for now, "Bottom's Up!".
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Beer Burger Recipe
Good Day People!
I was thinking that I should share my Super Secret Burger recipe with all of you. Okay, it's not really that big of a secret, or hard to do as a matter of fact. You don't even have to mix your own burger meat. You can use frozen patties from the supermarket.
If you are going to mix your own burger meat, I suggest 80%-20% of ground beef. If you want to get fancy use 50,25,25 mixture of 80%-20% ground beef, ground turkey, and ground pork or lamb.
Burger Patties:
2 lbs. Ground Beef or Meat mixture
2 Lg. Eggs
1 cup Bread Crumbs or Panko Crumbs
1 tsp. Chopped Garlic
1 tsp. Worcester Sauce
1 tbsp. Chopped Parsley
1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes (optional or increase for more heat)
1/2 cup Any Light Beer. You will use the rest at grilling.
Mix all together and form patties. Easy right? Pattie size really doesn't matter, just don't make one or two huge burgers from this. 4 1/2 pounders which a big enough. I usually make 8 1/4 pounders from this. Just remember when making the patties, make the inside of the patties thinner then that out side, for even cooking on the grill. Then freeze the patties on wax paper separating them, and also in a freezer bag.
Grill Seasoning for the Grill.
1 part Sugar
1 part Sea Salt
1 part Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
1 part Garlic Salt with Parsley
Just mix in a little bowl, and now you have my Super Secret Burger Grilling Spice!
BBQ TIME! Pull out the patties out from the freezer and place on oiled, medium/high preheated grill. On top of the burgers pour a little of your light beer and a about 2 pinches of the grilling spice. The beer should fizz a little when you do this. Then repeat when you flip the burgers. 5 to 6 minutes per side for well done for 1/4 pounders.
I made this recipe for the seasoning down at the beach two years ago, when I found out that we didn't have bread or ketchup for the frozen store bought burgers. Funny thing was that they were eating the burgers right off the plate like wild dogs. They all said that it was the most fantastic burgers they tasted. Like mama always says "Make do with what you have". Not to toot my own horn but they were great burgers.
Like always, Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
I was thinking that I should share my Super Secret Burger recipe with all of you. Okay, it's not really that big of a secret, or hard to do as a matter of fact. You don't even have to mix your own burger meat. You can use frozen patties from the supermarket.
If you are going to mix your own burger meat, I suggest 80%-20% of ground beef. If you want to get fancy use 50,25,25 mixture of 80%-20% ground beef, ground turkey, and ground pork or lamb.
Burger Patties:
2 lbs. Ground Beef or Meat mixture
2 Lg. Eggs
1 cup Bread Crumbs or Panko Crumbs
1 tsp. Chopped Garlic
1 tsp. Worcester Sauce
1 tbsp. Chopped Parsley
1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes (optional or increase for more heat)
1/2 cup Any Light Beer. You will use the rest at grilling.
Mix all together and form patties. Easy right? Pattie size really doesn't matter, just don't make one or two huge burgers from this. 4 1/2 pounders which a big enough. I usually make 8 1/4 pounders from this. Just remember when making the patties, make the inside of the patties thinner then that out side, for even cooking on the grill. Then freeze the patties on wax paper separating them, and also in a freezer bag.
Grill Seasoning for the Grill.
1 part Sugar
1 part Sea Salt
1 part Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
1 part Garlic Salt with Parsley
Just mix in a little bowl, and now you have my Super Secret Burger Grilling Spice!
BBQ TIME! Pull out the patties out from the freezer and place on oiled, medium/high preheated grill. On top of the burgers pour a little of your light beer and a about 2 pinches of the grilling spice. The beer should fizz a little when you do this. Then repeat when you flip the burgers. 5 to 6 minutes per side for well done for 1/4 pounders.
I made this recipe for the seasoning down at the beach two years ago, when I found out that we didn't have bread or ketchup for the frozen store bought burgers. Funny thing was that they were eating the burgers right off the plate like wild dogs. They all said that it was the most fantastic burgers they tasted. Like mama always says "Make do with what you have". Not to toot my own horn but they were great burgers.
Like always, Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
5 New and 1 Belgain
Welcome Back Everyone!
I have five new beers in this review and the last Belgian from the last blog. No long babbling about theses beers, do to the fact I was the only one reviewing them. So I hope you enjoy it without the colorful commentaries of multiple tasters.
Bornem Tripple Abby Ale. The nose on this one was of caramel candies and flowers. The color was a rich goldish brown with a nice cream colored head with a hard pour. The mouth feel was a little thick, but nice, smooth, and a little bit bubbly. A little bite of fruit flavors, yeasty, some spice, and a nice light hoppy aftertaste. This was a lot better then the Bornem Double Abby Ale. I really enjoyed this one. Although I am a little guilty of not pairing this up with what I ate, which was pizza. Although this would go good with Bree and Cranberries, other rich cheeses, and a nice cigar.
Entire Butt English Porter. Got to love that name. It's true if you think about it. You can't really love just half a butt. The nose has chocolate, roasted coffee, and some sweetness to it. Reddish chocolate brown color with very little head, but a dark cream colored rim stays around the edges of the glass throughout drinking. The mouth feel has some weight, but it's balance with a slight carbonation. Very smooth as it rolls around the mouth. Dark roast, lots of nuttiness, chocolate, and sweet dark malt is what I get as it passes over the tongue. With a perfect amount of bitterness to counter the other complex flavors. A slight after taste but not longing. This beer is like having a Port after dinner. To place this with foods you would miss some of the finer notes. With that being said would be a great beer to add to a Tap Root Pot Pie.
http://www.salopianbrewery.co.uk/beers.htm
Fischer Amber Ale. The nose on this was not to impressive. Very little hop smell and a bite of cider. A pale amber color with a none impressive white head. Mouth feel was nice, clean, and crisp. The taste was of a pale ale, cider, and some wine taste. Although, the after taste reminded me of White Star Champagne. This would be a great beer to boil some brats in. As for pairing this with food, pretty much an every day type of meal with a light salad, veggies and a simple meat dish.
This site is in french.
http://www.heineken-entreprise.fr/index.html
Drop Top Amber Ale. I'll be honest, this one caught me off guard. This was way more impressive then what I thought it was going to be. A nice copper color and a light cream head. The nose was of sweet malt, some honey, and a little hint of citrus. The mouth feel was clean, light, and refreshing. Sweet, roasty, little bit of honey, bready, and a light hop to the taste. No real longing after taste. This beer would be great for BBQs. Truly, a very tasty beer.
http://www.widmer.com/beer_droptop.aspx
Sea Dog Blue Paw Wheat Ale. This is another one that I was surprised by. The color was of a pale yellow with a thin clean foam. The smell was of artificial blueberries and honey. The mouth feel was light and clean. This beer tasted like a liquid Blueberry Pop Tart. The after taste was nothing but blueberries. It was very tasty. If you don't like artificial flavors you might not like this. To pair this with a type of food it would have to be desserts. A nice fresh fruit pastry, or strawberry short cake. I will say it is an interesting beer to serve at a BBQ.
http://www.seadogbrewing.com/seadogbrews.php
Three Philosophers Belgian Quadrupel. Yes this is the first one in my blog that I've given a 7 rating. I was actually going to give this a lower rating but then I thought about it. This is definitely something I want to keep a few bottles of, pull out every year and give it a try to see how it ages. The nose of this was of cherries, caramel, and of Sherry wine. The color was dark brown and a tan head. The taste was a little hot with the alcohol, cherries, and a dark rich malt. The mouth feel was a little fizzy at first, but there was a smooth creamy feel after it. It warms as it goes down. A dark malty after taste. Would have to pair this up with Herb Roasted Duck, Green Beans with Butter Crumbs, and Black Forest Cake. Even a nice little after meal dessert itself.
I have five new beers in this review and the last Belgian from the last blog. No long babbling about theses beers, do to the fact I was the only one reviewing them. So I hope you enjoy it without the colorful commentaries of multiple tasters.
Bornem Tripple Abby Ale. The nose on this one was of caramel candies and flowers. The color was a rich goldish brown with a nice cream colored head with a hard pour. The mouth feel was a little thick, but nice, smooth, and a little bit bubbly. A little bite of fruit flavors, yeasty, some spice, and a nice light hoppy aftertaste. This was a lot better then the Bornem Double Abby Ale. I really enjoyed this one. Although I am a little guilty of not pairing this up with what I ate, which was pizza. Although this would go good with Bree and Cranberries, other rich cheeses, and a nice cigar.
Entire Butt English Porter. Got to love that name. It's true if you think about it. You can't really love just half a butt. The nose has chocolate, roasted coffee, and some sweetness to it. Reddish chocolate brown color with very little head, but a dark cream colored rim stays around the edges of the glass throughout drinking. The mouth feel has some weight, but it's balance with a slight carbonation. Very smooth as it rolls around the mouth. Dark roast, lots of nuttiness, chocolate, and sweet dark malt is what I get as it passes over the tongue. With a perfect amount of bitterness to counter the other complex flavors. A slight after taste but not longing. This beer is like having a Port after dinner. To place this with foods you would miss some of the finer notes. With that being said would be a great beer to add to a Tap Root Pot Pie. http://www.salopianbrewery.co.uk/beers.htm
Fischer Amber Ale. The nose on this was not to impressive. Very little hop smell and a bite of cider. A pale amber color with a none impressive white head. Mouth feel was nice, clean, and crisp. The taste was of a pale ale, cider, and some wine taste. Although, the after taste reminded me of White Star Champagne. This would be a great beer to boil some brats in. As for pairing this with food, pretty much an every day type of meal with a light salad, veggies and a simple meat dish.This site is in french.
http://www.heineken-entreprise.fr/index.html
Drop Top Amber Ale. I'll be honest, this one caught me off guard. This was way more impressive then what I thought it was going to be. A nice copper color and a light cream head. The nose was of sweet malt, some honey, and a little hint of citrus. The mouth feel was clean, light, and refreshing. Sweet, roasty, little bit of honey, bready, and a light hop to the taste. No real longing after taste. This beer would be great for BBQs. Truly, a very tasty beer.
http://www.widmer.com/beer_droptop.aspx
Sea Dog Blue Paw Wheat Ale. This is another one that I was surprised by. The color was of a pale yellow with a thin clean foam. The smell was of artificial blueberries and honey. The mouth feel was light and clean. This beer tasted like a liquid Blueberry Pop Tart. The after taste was nothing but blueberries. It was very tasty. If you don't like artificial flavors you might not like this. To pair this with a type of food it would have to be desserts. A nice fresh fruit pastry, or strawberry short cake. I will say it is an interesting beer to serve at a BBQ.http://www.seadogbrewing.com/seadogbrews.php
Three Philosophers Belgian Quadrupel. Yes this is the first one in my blog that I've given a 7 rating. I was actually going to give this a lower rating but then I thought about it. This is definitely something I want to keep a few bottles of, pull out every year and give it a try to see how it ages. The nose of this was of cherries, caramel, and of Sherry wine. The color was dark brown and a tan head. The taste was a little hot with the alcohol, cherries, and a dark rich malt. The mouth feel was a little fizzy at first, but there was a smooth creamy feel after it. It warms as it goes down. A dark malty after taste. Would have to pair this up with Herb Roasted Duck, Green Beans with Butter Crumbs, and Black Forest Cake. Even a nice little after meal dessert itself.Well I hope you all enjoyed this review. As always I love reviewing beers.
Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Belgian Special!!!
Welcome to the Belgian Special!
I decided to have this Belgian Special when I saw this 6 pack of beers when I was walking the isles in my local Total Wine store. I love Belgian Beers. I had a lot of them in my almost twelve years of beer drinking. No, I am not an alcoholic, I just enjoy beer and I usually do it in moderation. Not that I haven't had a few "One Off" night, because I have. I do have a few stories about and most of them are funny, some are sad, but luckily never had any really awful nights. If you want to know any of them just ask me when I see me or most of my friends because they all have their favorite stories. Anyways back to the beers. For this tasting I had 5 tasters. Boozer X, Jay, Rothy, and I are the usual suspects, but we had a new comer to the group Korean Phil. Yes he is Korean and he also is a professional cook, so he does have some good taste buds. Having all them here gives me a good range of tastes. All these beers are from one of the greatest Breweries in Belgium, Brouwerij Van Steenberge.
There website: http://www.vansteenberge.com/EN/EN_welkom.html
So on to our first beer.
PIRAAT Belgian Amber Triple (IPA). Now I didn't tell anyone it was an IPA, because well they all don't care to much for IPA's. The nose on this was a, floral like sunflowers, little spicy, and a little malty. The color was a golden amber with a super thick head. The mouth feel was smooth and creamy. The taste was very complex but balanced. All the flavors intermingled, was sweet like honey, a little zesty citrus, a little flowery, and malty goodness. I would have to say one of the most interesting and tasty beers I have ever had. Everyone agree to that. There was not to many comments, well because everyone was sitting there drinking and trying to pick out all the flavors. To say there was smiles, I would not lie, but there was. Then when I told them it was an IPA, they thought I was crazy, but it really was the original IPA. The food pairing for this is really anything. I enjoy this with a nice Smokey Rack of Ribs, Fire Grilled Corn on the Cob, and some Potato Salad. Or Wood Plank Grilled Salmon, and Grilled Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms. I also hear that it goes great with cigars, maybe a nice Zino Platinum Especial.
Beer number two is the Bruegel Amber Ale. Nose on this beer was a little yeasty, fruit like fruit salad, and sweet malt. The color was clean amber color and a big thick head of foam. The mouth feel was creamy and smooth. The taste was sweet, slight fruit, nutty, and had a bit of bitter in the back end. Also a little funky, but that was to be expected. Rothy comment on this beer was that he would have to be in the mood for this beer. Jay didn't much care for it, he would rather have a Captain and Coke. Korean Phil thought it was a little to funky for him. Boozer X and I liked this one. Boozer X said "If we had this one before the PIRAAT, I'm sure they would have liked it more". I'd have to agree, but honestly I thought they all would hate the PIRAAT. As they say "My Bad". So for the Bruegel Ale I would say this beer stands well by itself but this would go great with any BBQ foods, a Micro Green Salad, or any type of sandwich. Oh, this would go great with a Open faced Reuben. Next!
Augustijn Ale is a Belgian Abby Ale. The nose to this is like smelling an orchard with different fruit trees mixed with some spicy tones, and a little wet hay smell. The color was a rich gold and a thick foamy head. The mouth feel was smooth, dry and creamy. The taste was fruity, and spicy. I got a little peach, honeydew and cardamon and cinnamon. A little bitter in the middle. Finished clean with a funk on the back end. Rothy, Jay, and Korean Phil, both like this and would have this again. Boozer X thought it was a little dry for him. I thought it was very enjoyable and
different. Also for being of a ABV. of 8.0% there was no burn in the mouth feel until it warmed up. A food pair for this was a Pepper Ranch Chicken Fajita and some Beans and Rice, or Spicy Garlic Chicken with Stir-Fry Vegetables.
Our fourth beer is the Bornem Double Abby Ale. The nose had a light yeast, fruit, and a bit of alcohol to it. The color was a dark reddish brown with a light brown thick head. The mouth feel was a little heavy and moderately thick. The taste had a light roast, some caramel malt, a bit of raisin and plum, some dark brown sugar and a nice bitter. It was slightly hot but that was to be expected. Boozer X did not really care for this beer. "Just not my style", he said. Rothy that it was nice but it was a starter beer, not something he would drink all night. Korean Phil agreed with that and then added he would need something to eat with it. Jay still wanted a Captain and Coke. By far this one was less then I expected. I wasn't disappointed, but I thought there would be more to it. Food pairing for this was a little hard to think of at first. An Apple Stuffed Pork Chop with Dried Cranberry sauteed String Beans, or Sausage and Pepper Sandwich.
Golden Draak is an unusual Belgian Dark Brown Triple. It is unusual because most Triples are a rich gold color. The color on this one was a dark brown with a almost orange brown head. The nose on this smelled like a sherry, sweet, alcoholic, and dried fruit. Taste was really sweet and of malt, brown sugar, cola, cherry, and raisin. The mouth feel was slightly creamy, but had a fizz to it like club soda. There is a lot of heat from the alcohol, but was also to be expected because it's a wopping ABV. of 10.5%. Pretty much everyone liked it but thought it was a little to much. This is really a dessert beer. It is to be enjoyed on its own after a meal. If I had to pair this it would be with a Chocolate Truffle Cake. So on to the next beer.
There website: http://www.vansteenberge.com/EN/EN_welkom.html
So on to our first beer.
PIRAAT Belgian Amber Triple (IPA). Now I didn't tell anyone it was an IPA, because well they all don't care to much for IPA's. The nose on this was a, floral like sunflowers, little spicy, and a little malty. The color was a golden amber with a super thick head. The mouth feel was smooth and creamy. The taste was very complex but balanced. All the flavors intermingled, was sweet like honey, a little zesty citrus, a little flowery, and malty goodness. I would have to say one of the most interesting and tasty beers I have ever had. Everyone agree to that. There was not to many comments, well because everyone was sitting there drinking and trying to pick out all the flavors. To say there was smiles, I would not lie, but there was. Then when I told them it was an IPA, they thought I was crazy, but it really was the original IPA. The food pairing for this is really anything. I enjoy this with a nice Smokey Rack of Ribs, Fire Grilled Corn on the Cob, and some Potato Salad. Or Wood Plank Grilled Salmon, and Grilled Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms. I also hear that it goes great with cigars, maybe a nice Zino Platinum Especial.
Beer number two is the Bruegel Amber Ale. Nose on this beer was a little yeasty, fruit like fruit salad, and sweet malt. The color was clean amber color and a big thick head of foam. The mouth feel was creamy and smooth. The taste was sweet, slight fruit, nutty, and had a bit of bitter in the back end. Also a little funky, but that was to be expected. Rothy comment on this beer was that he would have to be in the mood for this beer. Jay didn't much care for it, he would rather have a Captain and Coke. Korean Phil thought it was a little to funky for him. Boozer X and I liked this one. Boozer X said "If we had this one before the PIRAAT, I'm sure they would have liked it more". I'd have to agree, but honestly I thought they all would hate the PIRAAT. As they say "My Bad". So for the Bruegel Ale I would say this beer stands well by itself but this would go great with any BBQ foods, a Micro Green Salad, or any type of sandwich. Oh, this would go great with a Open faced Reuben. Next!
Augustijn Ale is a Belgian Abby Ale. The nose to this is like smelling an orchard with different fruit trees mixed with some spicy tones, and a little wet hay smell. The color was a rich gold and a thick foamy head. The mouth feel was smooth, dry and creamy. The taste was fruity, and spicy. I got a little peach, honeydew and cardamon and cinnamon. A little bitter in the middle. Finished clean with a funk on the back end. Rothy, Jay, and Korean Phil, both like this and would have this again. Boozer X thought it was a little dry for him. I thought it was very enjoyable anddifferent. Also for being of a ABV. of 8.0% there was no burn in the mouth feel until it warmed up. A food pair for this was a Pepper Ranch Chicken Fajita and some Beans and Rice, or Spicy Garlic Chicken with Stir-Fry Vegetables.
Our fourth beer is the Bornem Double Abby Ale. The nose had a light yeast, fruit, and a bit of alcohol to it. The color was a dark reddish brown with a light brown thick head. The mouth feel was a little heavy and moderately thick. The taste had a light roast, some caramel malt, a bit of raisin and plum, some dark brown sugar and a nice bitter. It was slightly hot but that was to be expected. Boozer X did not really care for this beer. "Just not my style", he said. Rothy that it was nice but it was a starter beer, not something he would drink all night. Korean Phil agreed with that and then added he would need something to eat with it. Jay still wanted a Captain and Coke. By far this one was less then I expected. I wasn't disappointed, but I thought there would be more to it. Food pairing for this was a little hard to think of at first. An Apple Stuffed Pork Chop with Dried Cranberry sauteed String Beans, or Sausage and Pepper Sandwich.
Golden Draak is an unusual Belgian Dark Brown Triple. It is unusual because most Triples are a rich gold color. The color on this one was a dark brown with a almost orange brown head. The nose on this smelled like a sherry, sweet, alcoholic, and dried fruit. Taste was really sweet and of malt, brown sugar, cola, cherry, and raisin. The mouth feel was slightly creamy, but had a fizz to it like club soda. There is a lot of heat from the alcohol, but was also to be expected because it's a wopping ABV. of 10.5%. Pretty much everyone liked it but thought it was a little to much. This is really a dessert beer. It is to be enjoyed on its own after a meal. If I had to pair this it would be with a Chocolate Truffle Cake. So on to the next beer.
Bornem Triple Abby Ale is our next beer. But Boozer X said he had enough, because he was already buzzing. I also was feeling a slight buzz. So, We decided to hold of on the tasting for this one for another time. From the looks of it, everyone else was feeling it as well. It just goes to show you that a few of these beers can rock your world. So I promise to rate this beer in an upcoming blog. I will tell you if you see this mixed six pack in your local beer shop and you have been interested in trying something new, this is definitely for you. I hope you enjoyed our journey into the world of Belgian beers. Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
Special Ales
Hello Everyone!
Okay I was supposed to have these next two beer blogs posted already, but as everyone knows, life sometimes gets in the way. For these three beers there was three tasters. Boozer X, whom I consider a great friend and beer drinker. Rothy, which I also consider a great friend, but he only likes what he likes, and not afraid to say what's on his mind when it comes to anything, (that is why we debate on everything). Then finally there is I. I love beer and well that is all you really need to know. So on with the tasting.
The first beer was River Horse Special Ale from River Horse Brewing Co. Copper in color and a nice tan head. The nose on this was a sweet smell like caramel. Almost has a roasted malt with a touch of honey taste to it. It had a lot of hop flavor in the front part of the taste. Rothy's comments on this beer were that it had a thick taste to it, and pretty much rather have something else. Boozer X thought is was alright but the after taste was a little long in the swallow and he didn't care for it as much. If he had to choose on pay the price on this beer compared to something else he would go with something cheaper that he knows he would like. I'd have to agree with all the statements they had brought up. I did not care to much for this beer, but it was worth the try and I know I will try their other beers before I pass judgement on the brewery. Food with this beer would have to be something heavy like Beef Stew or Clam Chowder.
Okay I was supposed to have these next two beer blogs posted already, but as everyone knows, life sometimes gets in the way. For these three beers there was three tasters. Boozer X, whom I consider a great friend and beer drinker. Rothy, which I also consider a great friend, but he only likes what he likes, and not afraid to say what's on his mind when it comes to anything, (that is why we debate on everything). Then finally there is I. I love beer and well that is all you really need to know. So on with the tasting.
The first beer was River Horse Special Ale from River Horse Brewing Co. Copper in color and a nice tan head. The nose on this was a sweet smell like caramel. Almost has a roasted malt with a touch of honey taste to it. It had a lot of hop flavor in the front part of the taste. Rothy's comments on this beer were that it had a thick taste to it, and pretty much rather have something else. Boozer X thought is was alright but the after taste was a little long in the swallow and he didn't care for it as much. If he had to choose on pay the price on this beer compared to something else he would go with something cheaper that he knows he would like. I'd have to agree with all the statements they had brought up. I did not care to much for this beer, but it was worth the try and I know I will try their other beers before I pass judgement on the brewery. Food with this beer would have to be something heavy like Beef Stew or Clam Chowder.Website: http://www.riverhorse.com/index.html
The second beer was Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale from Stone Brewery Co. The color of the beer was of a brownish copper and head was a light tan color with large bubbles. the smell had a distinct smell of oak, a light floral hint, and I would have to say a little bit of fruit like sour oranges. Has a little bit of tannin in the mouth feel, but really smooth. Rothy did not like this beer as well. he said, "It tasted like he went out into the woods and bit into an oak tree". At this moment Boozer X almost fell out of his chair to get the rest of Rothy's sample. Boozer X liked the rich malty taste and the bitter from the hops. The first thing I tasted was the oak. then I picked up more of the sour orange taste as I drank it, but the rich malt and hop taste was more predominate. I really enjoyed this beer because it was different and had a lot of complex tastes in it. This would most definitly go great with a Blackened Steak and Garlic Smashed Potato side or something else rich and meaty.
Website: http://www.stonebrew.com/home.asp
The third beer of this session was the RJ ROCKERS Bell Ringer by RJ Rockers Brewing Company. And yes it did ring our bell. The nose on this had a sweet candy smell. Rich amber color to it, with a thin white head. The taste had a roasted yet caramel taste to it. Well balanced in the hop department. A little bit of a citrus, but the malt is really rich. The mouth feel on this one was pleasant and a little bit of weight to it, but not heavy at all. Boozer X pointed out that there was not a lot of alcohol burn in the taste for being an ABV. of 8.5%. He also mentioned that this beer would be the "Trouble Maker" of the beers, because it is very tasty and you might not know you had a little to much before it's to late. Rothy's comments were along the same lines, but he added head love to have this beer with a very good meal. I would have to agree on that. A rich, well balanced, and smooth drinking beer like this, (which I did not expect when I bought it), would need a meal that would match it. Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Sauteed Asparagus with Almonds, and Mashed Sweet Potatoes. Or, Flat Iron Steaks, Caramelized Onions and Bell Peppers, and Garlic Parmesan Steak Fries.
Website: http://www.rjrockers.com/
So this is all for now. Hopefully I'll have my Belgian Special Blog up later tonight or tomorrow morning. Like always, Enjoy and "CHEERS!"
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