Beer Quest Diaries: A Journey Through the Hops
Introduction
Beer- the alcoholic drink that is loved and enjoyed by many has been around for centuries. It is fascinating how this aerated liquid evolved into different variants and flavours over the years. One cannot help but wonder about the journey of beer through time, and more specifically, the journey through the hops. This article will take you on a journey on the influence of hops in beer and the different types of beers that fall under its category.
Evolution of Beer
Beer traces its origin back to ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Chinese. Back then, beer was made out of simple grains and water. However, as time passed, people started experimenting with different ingredients, and thus, the evolution of beer started. Today, beer is made using a wide range of ingredients such as barley, wheat, maize, rice, and hops.
The Importance of Hops
Hops have played a vital role in the evolution of beer. Not only do hops add a flavourful taste to beer, but they also serve as a preservative. Hops make the beer more stable, and prevent spoilage due to bacterial growth. They also help in reducing the sweetness in beer caused by the malted grains, balancing it with bitterness- a sensation that is enjoyed by many. The amount of hops used in beer varies and depends on the type of beer.
Types of Beer Influenced by Hops
Indian Pale Ale (IPA)
India Pale Ale or IPA is a type of beer that is massively influenced by hops. Why? This is because IPA was developed by the British in the 18th century to cater to their soldiers stationed in India. The brewer increased the number of hops added to the beer to make it survive the long journey from the United Kingdom to India. The end result was a beer that had a hoppy flavour, was less sweet, and had higher alcohol content. Today, IPA is a popular beer in different parts of the world.
American Pale Ale (APA)
APA is a type of beer that is similar to IPA in terms of bitterness and hoppy flavor. The difference is that APA uses American hops that were developed in the 20th century such as Cascade or Centennial. APA has a citrusy taste and is less bitter than IPA.
Double/Imperial IPA
Double or Imperial IPA is a type of beer that is characterized by its high alcohol content, high bitterness, and hoppy flavor. It is a more alcoholic and bitter version of the Indian Pale Ale. It has gained popularity among beer enthusiasts and has even become a part of the craft beer movement.
Belgian IPA
This beer is an innovative take on the classic IPA. Belgian IPA uses Belgian yeast, which gives it a spicy and fruity flavor. It is also dry-hopped, which adds to its hoppy aroma. Belgian IPA is a relatively new type of beer, and it has gained popularity in recent years.
English Bitter
English Bitter was developed in England in the 19th century. It is a low-alcohol beer that has a mild taste and minimal hop flavor. It is similar to Pale Ales, but with a distinct malty flavor that is balanced by the bitterness of hops.
How to Pair Beer with Food Influenced by Hops
Pairing food with beer can be tricky, but there are some general rules that you can follow. For hoppy beers, spicy, fatty, and salty food tend to work well. These foods stand up to the bitterness in the beer and bring out the flavours of the hops. Some examples of dishes that pair well with hoppy beers are spicy Indian curry, classic fish and chips, and chicken wings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ale and lager?
Ale and lager are two different types of beer. The main difference between ale and lager is the yeast used in the fermentation process. Ale is fermented at warm temperatures using top-fermenting yeast, while lager is fermented at colder temperatures using bottom-fermenting yeast. Ale tends to have a fuller, more complex taste, while lager is refreshing and crisp.
What is the alcohol content of beer?
The alcohol content of beer varies depending on the type of beer. Generally, beer can have an alcohol content of 2 percent to 12 percent by volume. Light beers tend to have lower alcohol content, while craft beers and ales tend to have higher alcohol content.
What is a craft beer?
Craft beer is a term used to describe beer that is made by independent, small breweries. These breweries produce small batches of beer using traditional methods and local, seasonal ingredients.
Conclusion
Beer- a drink that has played a significant role in history and in our daily lives. The influence of different ingredients, and more specifically, hops, has resulted in the emergence of a wide range of beer types that offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Whether it’s IPA, APA, or Belgian IPA, there’s a beer out there to suit every palate. So, cheers to beer, and the hops that make it all possible!