6 Unique Ways to Enjoy Craft Beer
Julia Nikolaus
Similar to other elements found in your refrigerator, craft beer has multiple uses. For some enthusiasts, they have become quite advanced with their experimental methods. From bathing to barbeques, and everything in between, we are breaking down the six most unique ways to enjoy craft beer.
Craft Beer Soak
It may sound bizarre, but several individuals swear that bathing in beer gives bubble baths a whole new meaning. Just fill the tub and pour in one bottle of the brew. If you have jets, be sure to turn them on to bring a head to the bath. After soaking for about 20 minutes, get out without rinsing off and towel dry. Now some may question the no-rinse method, but fear not! Your skin will not be sticky, nor will you smell like you’re sweating out beer from the night before. Instead, the yeast is absorbed into the skins creating a soft, luscious feel. And as far as the aroma? — You will smell like a fresh bakery.
Craft Beer Ice Cream
Turning your favorite craft beer into a frosty treat is nothing short of amazing. To churn your own craft beer ice cream, you will need your stout of choice, a cream base liquid, and an ice cream mix. Cream-based liquids could be half and half, whole, oat, rice, or pea milk. Before using milk in your ice cream, you will need to warm them up to dissolve any powders in the milk or cream. This enables a smooth and creamy result. If other milk is used, ice cream will still form, but it will have a more icy texture.
Meat Tenderizer
Beer in general is somewhat acidic, and depending on the craft beer, it may be more acidic than standard beer. For instance, many ales make an excellent option for a meat tenderizer due to their slightly higher acidity, compared to sour beers that are typically lower on the acidity scale. Similar to other tenderizing options, by using craft beer as a meat tenderizer, you can enjoy leaner cuts that otherwise might be too tough. The beer also won't change the meat's flavor as much as other alcoholic tenderizers, like wine. To use craft beer as a tenderizer, poke the meat with a fork and place it in a sealable container or bag. Then, pour the beer on top and let the meat sit overnight. After marinating, dispose of the marinade.
Beer Barbecue Sauce
Whether it is taking your next set of ribs up a notch or a custom condiment for your holiday barbeque, this recipe will lead to endless compliments. With a great balance of flavor and a hint of spice, you will not be disappointed with the result. If you wish to kick up the level of heat a bit, you can use hot banana peppers, increase the amount of Tabasco, or add crushed red pepper to flavor.
Craft Beer BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium banana pepper, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 2 Tbsp green olives
• 5 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 6 oz. tomato paste
• 1/3 cup wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients and boil for 10 minutes and then reduce to a simmer for approximately four hours, or until thickened. Cool, then refrigerate for 24 hours before consuming.
Beersicle Anyone?
It’s not exactly an advanced technique, but based on your willingness to experiment, you could make quite the creation. The process is quite simple — you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. First, grab your reusable popsicle containers, craft beers of choice, and maybe a mixer if you want to experiment. Then, get creative! Some people mix a variety of crafts together for a custom beersicle, while others opt for a combination of orange juice and a light beer for a citrus delight on a summer day.
Delicious Beer Bread
No craft beer creation post would be complete without famous beer bread. Similar to the beersicle, the level of experimentation within the bread recipes can be as broad as you’d like. That being said, there are tips for making bread with beer. Some of which include ensuring you are not adding too many rising agents — the beer acts as a raising agent already because it has yeast. Also, craft beer bakers should choose a beer that has fewer hops — the more hops in the draft, the more bitter the bread will become.
Cheers to More Beer!
Overall, these six creations are six ways to knock this summer right out of the park. From relaxation to cool summer treats that will make your next barbeque one to remember, there are several ways to maximize your craft beer abilities. What are you waiting for?!
Go grab a craft beer — or six — and experiment! Better yet, sign up for our craft beer of the month club and the beer will come to you, giving you more time to get creative with how you want to use it!
