Crystal malt

[Gannell]

I am about to brew Unreal Ale (Coopers website recipe) which says to use their can of Real Ale, 500 g each of their Beer Enhancer #1 and LDM. I have just read Chris's "Simple things that make HB better" in which he recommends using crystal malt. I have only just started brewing again after a gap of 35 years and it reminded me that I always used crystal malt in those days. My query is, should use the crystal in addition to the Coopers recipe or as a substitute for either the Enhancer or LDM?

Thanks

[timmy]

Hi,

You would add it to those ingredients.

Cheers,

Tim

[warra48]

Hi Gannell,
Welcome to the forum.

Yeah, what Timmy said.I would limit myself to about 250 gr maximum per batch, until you work out your level of preference for it.
The crystal malt should be steeped. Add it to 2 or 3 litres of water, and bring up to a temperature of about 70ºC, and hold it there for about 30 minutes. Then drain the liquid through a strainer. If you wish, you can add another 2 or 3 litres of hot or near boiling water to the grain, and drain it again. You should then have about 4 to 5 litres of liquid.
You must boil this liquid for about 15 minutes minimum to kill any nasties. Then cool the pot in a sink of water. Change the water as needed.
Then just add the liquid to the rest of your ingredients in the fermenter, and top up to your desired level.

Good luck!