Ben Franklin is known for many things, and one of his lesser-known accomplishments is his recipe for spruce beer. This unique beverage, made from the needles of spruce trees, was a popular drink in colonial times. Today, it is still enjoyed by those who appreciate its refreshing flavor and historical significance. If you’re looking to try your hand at brewing this classic beverage, here is the best easy Ben Franklin spruce beer recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of spruce needles
– 1 pound of molasses
– 1 ounce of dried hops
– 1 tablespoon of brewer’s yeast
– 5 gallons of water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the spruce needles and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and strain out the needles.
4. Return the liquid to the pot and bring it back to a boil.
5. Add the molasses and hops, stirring until dissolved.
6. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
8. Sprinkle the brewer’s yeast over the liquid and stir gently.
9. Cover the pot with a clean cloth and let it sit for 24 hours.
10. After 24 hours, strain the liquid into clean bottles or a keg.
11. Seal the containers and let them sit at room temperature for a week to carbonate.
12. After a week, refrigerate the spruce beer and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh spruce needles instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use fresh spruce needles. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before using.
2. Can I replace molasses with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for molasses.
3. How long does spruce beer last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, spruce beer can last for several months.
4. Can I add spices to the recipe?
Certainly! You can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra flavor.
5. Can I carbonate the beer using a carbonation system?
Yes, you can use a carbonation system instead of letting it naturally carbonate.
6. Can I brew a smaller batch?
Yes, you can adjust the recipe according to your desired batch size.
7. How alcoholic is spruce beer?
Spruce beer is generally low in alcohol, usually around 1-2% ABV.
8. Can I use a different type of yeast?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of yeast, but brewer’s yeast is recommended for best results.
9. Can I add additional flavors like fruit or herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors to create your unique spruce beer.
10. Can I use bottled water instead of tap water?
Yes, using bottled water can help ensure a clean and pure taste.
11. Can I brew spruce beer without hops?
While hops add bitterness and aroma to the beer, you can omit them if desired for a more traditional flavor.