Crushed Crystal malt

[twentyfootwilf]

I would like to use crystal Malt in my next brew (possibly a Coopers IPA). Thrifty Shopper sells crushed crystal malt at about £1.59 per kg. How does one go about using the stuff, do you just steep it then strain it into the FV boil it or what? Any advice would be welcome.

[Andris]

you need to start the boil, put in your malt in a "sock" and take it out at 170F/76C, if you leave it for higher temp, tanins from husks will add to "off flavors"
dont squeeze the bag when you take out, just let it drip all out - same reason - tanins from husks - you should end up with tea color liquid.

this technique applies to extract brewing, meaning that the amount of malt is put into some 25l of water - some adaptation is required for kit brewing.

i havent done it myself, but this info should be pretty accurate.

[twentyfootwilf]

Thanks for that Andris,
So I would need to be pretty accurate with temperature then?

[Wooderson]

I read of one guy on here using a thermos though it would depend on how much grain you'll be using.I plan on sprucing up a couple if kits I have with some fresh grains just been looking into it.

[twentyfootwilf]

I was thinking of using 500g or maybe 1kg, I understand that crystal malt grains add flavour and body without increasing the alcohol significantly?