Brewing beer traditionally involves four basic ingredients: water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. However, for many centuries, brewers have experimented with different additives (also referred to as "adjuncts" in English) to create unique flavors, colors, and characteristics in beer. Adjuncts can add an entirely new dimension to the beer, enhancing aromas, imparting flavor, and altering the beer's texture and body.
In this article, we will focus on adjuncts used during the brewing process itself and will not cover adjuncts used during fermentation, such as hops, fruit, oak, spices, and more.
Why use adjuncts in beer brewing?
Adjuncts give the brewer the opportunity to customize and improve beer recipes in various ways. Here are some of the main reasons to use adjuncts:
1. Unique taste experiences: Adjuncts like honey, spices, fruit, candy syrup, or licorice can give the beer unique and exciting flavors. From sweet and fruity to complex and spicy, adjuncts add an extra dimension to the beer's flavor profile.
2. Color adjustment: Certain adjuncts such as dark malt, caramel malt, or special sugars can change the color of the beer. This allows for the creation of varying shades, from light and golden to dark and deep.
3. Texture and body: Adjuncts like oats or wheat can improve the beer's texture and provide a fuller mouthfeel. At the same time, the use of sugar can adjust the body, resulting in a drier or more balanced beer.
How and when to use adjuncts in beer?
Adjuncts during the mashing process
Some adjuncts can be added during mashing, along with malted barley. This includes unmalted grains like corn or rice, which can contribute to a lighter body and sweetness in the beer. Other examples are special sugars or fruits that add extra flavor and complexity.
Adjuncts during boiling
Most adjuncts are added during boiling. During this process, adjuncts such as spices, herbs, fruits, or candy syrup can be added to the brew kettle. Boiling has several advantages: it sterilizes the adjuncts, helps release flavors and aromas, and reduces the risk of contamination in the beer.
Examples of adjunct use during boiling
Candy Syrup
Candy syrup is a type of sugar often used in Belgian beer styles. It adds sweetness and contributes to a rich, deep color. See our selection of Candi Syrup, recognized as the best candy syrup on the market. We also have several beer kits with this included in the recipe.
Fruit
Fruit, whether fresh fruit or fruit puree, can also be added during boiling to give the beer a fruity character. Popular fruits for brewing include berries, citrus fruits, and tropical fruits.
Spices and herbs
Spices and herbs are another common addition during boiling. They can give the beer a unique and interesting flavor profile.
Recipes using adjuncts
American Lager
Ingredients for a 25L batch:
- 4 kg Pilsner malt
- 1 kg Flaked corn
- 15g Saaz hops (60 minutes)
- 25g Saaz hops (10 minutes)
- 2 packets SafLager S-23
OG: 1.050, FG: 1.012, IBU: 20, EBC: 8
The corn added during the mashing process helps lighten the beer's body and gives it a sweet, subtle flavor.
Oatmeal Stout
Ingredients for a 25L batch:
- 4 kg Maris Otter malt
- 1 kg Flaked oats
- 500g Chocolate malt
- 250g Black malt
- 20g East Kent Goldings hops (60 minutes)
- 30g East Kent Goldings hops (10 minutes)
- 2 packets SafAle S-04 or Lallemand Nottingham Ale
OG: 1.060, FG: 1.016, IBU: 30, EBC: 80
The oats added during the mashing process give the beer a full-bodied and creamy texture.
Japanese Lager
Ingredients for a 25L batch:
- 4 kg Pilsner malt
- 1 kg Flaked rice
- 15g Sorachi Ace hops (60 minutes)
- 25g Sorachi Ace hops (10 minutes)
- 2 packets SafLager W-34/70 or Lallemand Diamond Lager
OG: 1.050, FG: 1.012, IBU: 25, EBC: 7
The rice added during the mashing process gives the beer a light and dry character.
Belgian Dubbel
Ingredients for a 25L batch:
- 6 kg Pilsner malt
- 500g D-180 dark candi syrup (added during boiling)
- 20g Saaz hops (60 minutes)
- 30g Saaz hops (10 minutes)
- 2 packets SafAle BE-256
OG: 1.066, FG: 1.016, IBU: 22, EBC: 38
The candi syrup from Candi Syrup added during boiling gives the beer its characteristic sweetness and deep color, which is essential for Belgian Dubbels.
Experiment with your homebrew
Using adjuncts during brewing can give your beer an extra dimension by imparting unique flavors, altering the color, and improving texture and body. By experimenting with different adjuncts, you can create beers that stand out and satisfy your personal preferences. At Brewshop, you'll find Norway's largest selection of raw materials and brewing equipment to explore and improve your brewing skills. So seize the opportunity, be creative, and create your own signature beers.
Good luck with your brewing! Feel free to contact us if you need advice and tips on ingredients and equipment.
