Quick Home Brew (Pikakalja)

This non-alcoholic drink is popular in the summertime for its refreshing and non-sweet flavor. It is commonly called talouskalja, meaning "home beer." Serve it chilled with meals or with sandwiches. It is ready the day after you make it. (Another homemade beer called sahti is similar to this one, and in the past was served at country weddings and celebrations.)

Makes 1 gallon.

1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon malt extract
4 quarts (16 cups) water
1 teaspoon active dry yeast

Mix the sugar, malt, and water and bring to boiling point. Cool, and when lukewarm, add the yeast. Stir until it is dissolved. Let stand in a non-metallic container overnight to ferment. Pour into a gallon jug or into 4 1-quart bottles to store. Cap tightly. Chill and store in the refrigerator or a cool place.

Tags: finnish beverage

Submitted by samuel on 24th Sep 2009 05:12