Head Retention

[Nick JD]

G'day all,

I've been doing a few cans of malt, dme and adding hops - and have been noticing a distinct lack of head as a rule. I've read bits and pieces here about steeping some grain to make for better head.

Can anyone point me in the right direction with regards to "steeping".

Why does this work? What's in the grain that makes for better surface tension?

Thanks.

 

[Gavo]

There is a good article HERE. And info on steeping grain HERE.

Cheers
Gavo.

 

[brendo]

carapils is good for head retention. Wheat extract can also help.

 

[Nick JD]

Cheers - just what I needed. Will steep.

That "How to Brew" site is really good. I wondered why some grains didn't need to be mashed.

 

[seemax]

When I do the odd K&K, especially simple lagers, I will steep 150g each of carapils and wheat malt and add to the mix. You wont get a thick creamy head like a stout, but you will get an initial head that reduces by the time you finish the glass.

 

[reviled]

When I do the odd K&K, especially simple lagers, I will steep 150g each of carapils and wheat malt and add to the mix. You wont get a thick creamy head like a stout, but you will get an initial head that reduces by the time you finish the glass.

Wheat needs to be mashed dunnit?

 

[brendo]

Wheat needs to be mashed dunnit?

Sorry... I left out an important word... wheat malt extract...

carapils can be steeped, wheat needs to be mashed.

Brendo

 

[brendo]

That "How to Brew" site is really good. I wondered why some grains didn't need to be mashed.

Yep... it is a great resource - I used the online version a bunch a times and then ponied up the $$ for my own copy, well worth it.

Brendo

 

[Gavo]

That "How to Brew" site is really good.

Yep, I keep going back and keep re-reading.

Cheers
Gavo.

 

[brendo]

Yep, I keep going back and keep re-reading.

Cheers
Gavo.

Yeah mine gets a quick look prior to most brews and during recipe forumlation.

 

[Nick JD]

Thanks fellas. I ordered some Weyermann Carapils and enough different hops varieties to keep me guessing for a year... :icon_cheers: