How do you make old fashioned root beer?

Making Old-Fashioned Root Beer:

While the exact recipe for "old-fashioned" root beer is a matter of personal preference and family tradition, here's a guide based on historical recipes and modern techniques:

Ingredients:

* Root Beer Extract: This is the key ingredient, providing the classic flavor. You can find it in various forms:

* Homemade: Use recipes online for extracts using root bark (sassafras, sarsaparilla, etc.), herbs, and spices.

* Commercial: Opt for high-quality extracts from brands like "Bundt" or "Reed's."

* Sugar: White granulated sugar or brown sugar for sweetness.

* Water: Filtered or bottled water is recommended for better taste.

* Yeast: For fermentation, use a special root beer yeast, available online or at homebrew stores.

* Optional Ingredients:

* Honey: For a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.

* Maple Syrup: Adds a more complex sweetness.

* Molasses: For a deeper, darker flavor.

* Cinnamon: A warming spice.

* Nutmeg: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.

Equipment:

* Large glass jar or jug: For fermenting the root beer.

* Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

* Funnel: For transferring ingredients into the fermenting jar.

* Hydrometer: For monitoring the fermentation process.

* Bottles or growlers: For storing the finished root beer.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Extract: If using homemade extract, ensure it's well-strained and stored in a cool, dark place.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In your jar or jug, combine water, sugar, and root beer extract. Adjust sugar to your desired sweetness level.

3. Activate the Yeast: Follow the instructions on your yeast package to activate it in a small amount of warm water.

4. Add Yeast: Once activated, carefully add the yeast to the root beer mixture.

5. Ferment: Cover the jar with a loose-fitting lid or cloth to allow gas escape. Let it ferment in a cool, dark place for 2-3 days.

6. Monitor Fermentation: Use a hydrometer to check the sugar level and progress. Fermentation is complete when the hydrometer reading is stable.

7. Bottle and Carbonate: Once fermentation is complete, gently bottle the root beer, leaving a small amount of headspace. Add a teaspoon of sugar to each bottle for carbonation.

8. Age: Allow the bottled root beer to carbonate for 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place.

Tips:

* Use high-quality ingredients for a better taste.

* Adjust the sweetness level to your liking.

* Experiment with different flavors and spices to create your unique blend.

* Be patient and let the root beer age for optimal flavor development.

Enjoy your homemade, old-fashioned root beer!

Note: This recipe provides a general guide. Always refer to specific instructions on your yeast and extract for accurate results.