Beer is considered to be an excellent beverage for keeping cool in the summer. You might be able to save a lot of money by brewing beer at home. While most people think homebrewing beer is a complicated process, it is actually quite fun when you learn the basics. Homebrewing can be made a lot easier with the right equipment.
A brew kettle is designated for brewing beer so it enables you to ferment the wort in an efficient way. Moreover, using a brew kettle for brewing beer is a much better alternative than using stockpots as there is no transfer of flavor and aroma. You can use your brew kettle for making other beverages such as wine and cider as well. The best brew kettles will allow you to easily make a large batch of beer that you can sip all summer.
List of The 10 Best Brew Kettles
1. GasOne BS-32 Brew Kettle
The GasOne BS-32 Brew Kettle is a must-have for individuals who are looking for easier ways to boil wort at home. Other than just making beer and whiskey, you can also use this convenient equipment for making homemade maple syrup, soups, stews, gumbo, and boiled crawfish among others. There is no transfer of flavors.
Tri-Ply Base
This brew kettle is equipped with a high-quality tri-ply base. This means that the base is made using three sturdy layers. The top and bottom layers are made using stainless steel while the middle layer is made using aluminum. The stainless steel exterior protects the brew kettle from rusts and corrosion while the aluminum helps to improve heat conduction during the brewing process. This well-designed structure enables the brew kettle to retain heat at a constant temperature for a long period of time. So, you do not have to worry about the bottom warping or becoming damaged when exposed to high temperatures. Moreover, the tri-ply construction also enables the brew kettle to distribute heat evenly throughout the vessel.
Easy Handling
This brew kettle has ergonomic handles, made of sturdy stainless steel. The handles are welded in tightly so you do not have to worry about them becoming loose or coming apart due to frequent use. The large, rounded handles provide a firm grip, which makes it easier to carry this 12.07-pound brew kettle from one place to another. Moreover, the stainless steel lid is also equipped with an ergonomic handle. An important feature of the handles on this brew kettle is that they are large enough to wrap your fingers around them, even while wearing thick oven mitts or potholders.
Homebrewing Accessories
This brew kettle comes with useful accessories such as a spigot for pouring the mashed liquid out easily, a thermometer for monitoring the temperature of the wort, a set of O-rings for fixing the spigot into the opening, and a mini wrench for easy and quick installation. You will also receive a roll of Teflon tape, a ball valve, and a top-quality butterfly valve. If you do not want to use the thermometer, you can plug the hole to tightly seal it.
Verdict
The GasOne BS-32 Brew Kettle makes a great purchase for both beginners and professionals. It offers a wide capacity of 8 gallons, which makes it perfect for making large batches of beer. The valves and the spigot are very easy to install. You can use the wrench to tightly fix them into the body of the brew kettle so that there are no leakages. The thermometer reads accurately so you do not have to use any external devices to monitor the temperature of the wort.
On the other hand, this brew kettle has a very thick and sturdy structure. So, even if the brew kettle falls on the floor accidentally, it is unlikely to form any dents. Moreover, the combination of stainless steel and aluminum makes it extremely durable and long-lasting. There is no warping due to high heat. Another useful feature of this brew kettle is that the inside of the body has measurement markings in gallons so you can easily control how much liquid you are pouring into it.
2. Bayou Classic Brew Kettle
The Bayou Classic Brew Kettle offers a capacity of 10 gallons, which makes it perfect for homebrewing beer, mead, or even cider. You can also use it for your daily cooking needs.
Easy Cleaning Process
We all know how important it is to sterilize the vessel before starting the brewing process. An easy-to-clean brew kettle such as this one makes the beer-making process a lot less hassle-free. Both the interior and the exterior of this brew kettle are made using premium-grade stainless steel materials so it has rather a smooth surface. This makes it very easy to clean as all the gunk and stubborn stains wash off quickly. All you need to do is rinse it well using warm, soapy water and your brew kettle will look good as new. You may use a soft, non-abrasive sponge to get rid of stubborn food particles. Plus, the stainless steel construction protects it from rust and corrosion so you can expect your brew kettle to look brand new, even in the long run.
Multifunctional Brew Kettle
This brew kettle can be used to cook a wide variety of food such as soups, stews, crab, lobster, corn, turkey, and lots more rather than just using it for boiling wort. So, it is quite multifunctional. Plus, it has a capacity of 10 gallons so you can easily make large batches of food or beverages. This generous capacity makes it suitable for parties and special events as you can easily make enough to serve a large number of guests.
Sturdy Structure
The entire brew kettle is made using stainless steel, which helps to make it extremely sturdy and durable. It has a high-temperature tolerance so it is unlikely to warp when exposed to high heat. Moreover, the stainless steel structure also enables it to distribute heat evenly throughout the vessel so that your food cooks evenly within the set time. It has a completely flat base that allows you to place it on stovetops and ranges without it being too wobbly.
Verdict
The Bayou Classic Brew Kettle has a sturdy and well-designed structure that enables you to use it for a long period of time. You can use it for making both homebrewed beverages and large amounts of food. You can easily monitor how much liquid you have poured into the brew kettle as the inside is engraved with measurement markings in gallons. This convenient feature allows you to accurately prepare your desired food or beverages. Moreover, this brew kettle has an easy cleaning process that makes it suitable for daily use.
You won’t have to scrub for hours to get rid of all the gunk. On the other hand, this brew kettle is durable enough to withstand and conduct high temperatures well so there is unlikely to be any warping or scorching. However, this brew kettle does not come with any homebrewing accessories such as a spigot, thermometer, valves, and wrenches among others. If you want to monitor the temperature, you will need to purchase an additional clip-on thermometer. You can also place the thermometer on the side of the kettle but the temperature readings may not be totally accurate.
3. Concord Cookware Brew Kettle
You can expect the Concord Cookware Brew Kettle to perform well throughout its years of usage. It has an all-welded construction that makes it extremely powerful and durable.
Heavy-Duty Handles
You can easily carry this brew kettle from one place to another using the ergonomic handles which are located on the two sides of the body. Although this brew kettle has a tall and wide structure and weighs 7.88 pounds, you will be able to move it around without much difficulty. The handles are welded in fully so they are unlikely to come apart any time soon. There is a large handle on the lid as well. The lid is completely airtight and locks in well, meaning it will not wobble when you place it over the brew kettle.
304 Stainless Steel
This brew kettle is made using commercial-grade stainless steel materials so you can expect it to last a lifetime. The stainless steel interior and exterior help to produce a non-reactive surface, making it perfect for preparing acidic or carbonated beverages such as beer, and cider among others. Not only does this brew kettle perform well in high heat but it also has a fully polished exterior that makes it look brand new throughout its lifespan. Moreover, the stainless steel surface makes cleaning a lot easier as all the gunk and hardened remains of food wash off quickly.
Quick Assembly
You only need a wrench and a big roll of Teflon tape to fix the ball valves and thermometer into the brew kettle. Most people are able to assemble it within just 10 minutes. The product comes with a detailed user manual so you can always seek help from there in case you get confused.
Verdict
This brew kettle is perfect for brewing large batches of beer within a very short period of time. It offers a spacious capacity of 10 gallons and the quality is top-notch. You can use this brew kettle to deep-fry whole turkeys as well, just make sure to seal the opening prior to cooking. The lid is a perfect fit and can be hung on either side of the handles. So, you can stir the liquid more comfortably. On the other hand, it comes with useful accessories such as ball valves and a highly functional thermometer. The thermometer reads temperatures accurately so there is no chance of overheating during your homebrewing process.
4. Bene Casa Brew Kettle
If you are looking for a brew kettle that allows you to brew beer as well as cook a large batch of seafood, the Bene Casa Brew Kettle should be one of your top choices.
Perfect For Beginners
This brew kettle offers a capacity of 5 gallons, which makes it perfect for individuals who are new to brewing beer at home. You can start out in small batches and learn to perfect your recipe gradually. This brew kettle has a depth of 10 inches and a diameter of 12.5 inches so it has quite a compact size. This compact size makes it easy to store as it does not take up much space. The size is perfect for small kitchens. Moreover, if you are not making homemade beer for commercial purposes, a small brew kettle such as this one may suffice.
Effortless Cleaning
The entire brew kettle is made using high-quality stainless steel materials so the surface is extremely smooth. All the stains and gunk wash off quickly with a little scrubbing. It has an odor-resistant surface so the smell will surely go away after a thorough cleaning. One feature that makes this brew kettle different from the rest is that it is safe to be used in the dishwasher. So, on days when you do not feel like doing the dishes manually, you can just put the brew kettle in the dishwasher for a quick and easy cleaning process. It is highly unlikely to warp or develop scratches on the stainless steel surface.
Extremely Lightweight
This brew kettle is extremely lightweight. It weighs only 3.2 pounds, which is lighter than all the other brew kettles mentioned in this article. You can easily carry it from one place to another without putting much strain on your wrists. Another feature that makes it easy to transport is that it has large stainless steel handles that are tightly riveted into the body of the brew kettle. The handles provide enough support and a firm grip, even when you are wearing thick potholders or oven mitts.
Verdict
The Bene Casa Brew Kettle is great for brewing small batches of beer. You can also use it to cook, boil, brine, or deep-fry food. You can make soups, stews, seafood boil, and lots more in it. The stainless steel surface is non-reactive so you can even make acidic food or beverages using this equipment. The lid is also made using stainless steel and helps to trap heat during the cooking or brewing process. However, many users have said that the lid is quite flimsy. It does not function well in high heat. Moreover, the body of the brew kettle is not very thick so, if it falls on the floor accidentally, there are very high chances of it becoming dented or damaged. On the other hand, the brew kettle does not have any openings for installing a spigot or a thermometer. It is shaped like a regular stockpot.
5. BREWSIE Brew Kettle
The BREWSIE Brew Kettle has a fully polished surface that is made using premium-grade stainless steel materials. It is a highly functional and heavy-duty brew kettle that enables you to brew beer, cider, and other beverages in a hassle-free way.
Dual Filtration
If your batch of beer turns out hazy most times, it might be better to try out the dual filtration method of this brew kettle. The dual filtration method helps to get rid of yeast, and protein among others that tends to make the beer look cloudy. It proves to be an effective way of getting rid of bad odor and improving the taste of the beer as well. You might be able to get professional-quality beer using this well-equipped brew kettle.
Large Capacity
This brew kettle has a holding capacity of 8 gallons or 32 quarts so you can easily make a large volume of beer in only a few batches. The large capacity makes it suitable for commercial use as well. Plus, it helps to save time and effort. Another useful feature of this brew kettle is that it has measurement markings on the interior of the body. You can easily control how much liquid you have poured inside the brew kettle, which allows you to follow your desired recipe accurately.
All Accessories Included
This brew kettle really does come in a complete package. The accessories included are a false bottom, a bazooka screen, a thermometer, a ball valve, and an inner connector. It also comes with a lid and all the hardware required to install or connect the accessories to the brew kettle. The false bottom has a height of about 2 inches and stands on three legs so it is unlikely to wobble or lose balance in between the brewing session. The bazooka screen is made using sturdy stainless steel materials and can efficiently filter out the hops added to the boiling wort. The thermometer reads accurately and the spigot can be tightly fixed into the opening so that there are no leakages or spillages while pouring the beer into your desired jars.
Verdict
The BREWSIE Brew Kettle ensures that your beer comes out with fantastic flavor, aroma, and formula every time. It has a thick stainless steel body that enables it to conduct heat quickly and retain the high temperature for a long period of time. This helps to prevent the brew kettle from scorching or burning when exposed to a very high temperature. On the other hand, all the accessories and hardware are sturdy enough to last for a long time. The false bed comes in handy, especially when you are brewing all-grain beer. It helps to keep the grains or mash separate from the liquid wort.
The brew kettle is also very easy to install. You can quickly disassemble the ball valves to thoroughly clean in between the nooks and crannies. The handles are well-built and are highly unlikely to break apart any time soon. However, you might require some assistance when carrying the brew kettle from one place to another, especially when it is filled with wort or beer. It weighs 15.47 pounds so, if you have weak wrists, it might be best to ask for help rather than carrying it yourself.
6. Northern Brewer Megapot Brew Kettle
Northern Brewer has been producing top-quality homebrew supplies since 1993. The Megapot Brew Kettle is one of its best-selling products. You can expect it to perform well throughout its lifespan.
Convenient Structure
The stainless steel construction gives this brew kettle a very sleek and elegant look. It has a tri-clad bottom which means that the base is made using three different layers. The bottom has a thickness of 4mm which enables it to conduct and retain heat for long periods of time. The tri-clad bottom also ensures that heat is transferred throughout the brew kettle uniformly. This brew kettle does not come pre-drilled so you will need to drill the hole by yourself. The brew kettle comes with a weldless ball valve and a weldless thermometer so assembly is pretty quick and easy. Moreover, the interior of the brew kettle has measurement markings in gallons so you won’t have to use a sight glass or other means to measure the quantity of the liquid.
Safe Handling
The handles of this brew kettle are made using stainless steel but what sets them aside from the rest is that they are covered with silicone. The silicone has a heat-resistant surface so you won’t have to wear oven mitts or potholders while carrying the brew kettle from one place to another. The silicone also helps to provide a more comfortable and secure grip. The handles are riveted into the brew kettle so there is no chance of them becoming loose or breaking apart. You can steadily lift the brew kettle using heavy-duty, heat-proof handles. The handle on the lid, too, has a silicone covering.
Suitable For Commercial Use
This brew kettle has a capacity of 10 gallons. It can hold about 37.8 liters of liquid so you can brew wine or beer in large batches. If you plan on starting a brewing business, this brew kettle might be the perfect equipment as you can brew large quantities in just a few batches. The body of the brew kettle is very easy to drill and the ball valve can be installed within a short period of time. The thermometer reads accurately so you won’t have to use alternate methods to measure the temperature. You can install a faucet or spigot using the ball valve and some tape. If you install everything correctly, there are hardly any leakages.
Verdict
This is a very large brew kettle that is sturdy enough to deliver great performance for several years. The stainless steel body is quite thick and is able to conduct and retain heat quite efficiently. The lid, too, is made using stainless steel and helps to trap the moisture and heat during the brewing process. This stainless steel structure not only does a great job in conducting heat but also makes the brew kettle look shiny and modern.
The tri-clad bottom is a great feature that helps to prevent warping and allows for better heat transfer. Moreover, you can easily drill the brew kettle to install your desired equipment and accessories such as a false bottom or a bazooka pipe. On the other hand, the handles have an ergonomic design, and the heat-proof silicone covering keeps your fingers safe from burns and injuries. One drawback of this brew kettle is that it is very heavy. It weighs 22 pounds so, when it is filled with wort or other liquids, you might have a very difficult time moving it around.
7. Mophorn Brew Kettle
The Mophorn Brew Kettle has a massive structure, offering a capacity of 12.5 gallons. This large capacity not only allows you to brew more beer in a single batch but also prevents chances of a boilover or overflow during the brewing process.
Wide Application
This brew kettle is quite durable and versatile. It is made using commercial-grade stainless steel so there is no transfer of flavor. You can use it for both homebrewing and cooking regular food. You can make a large quantity of soup, stew, corn on the cob, and lots more in it. You can also use it for boiling large lobsters or crabs. The spacious capacity of this brew kettle makes it perfect for preparing a hearty meal for a large number of guests. Before cooking food in it, make sure that the spigot or faucet is tightly fixed to prevent leakages.
Dust-Proof Lid
The lid of this brew kettle is said to have a dust-proof surface, which makes cleaning and maintenance a lot less hassle-free. You can store the freshly brewed beer in this brew kettle and leave it at one corner of your kitchen for a few weeks. The lid will not collect any dust. Moreover, you do not have to hold the lid in one hand while stirring the wort or stew with another. You can just place the lid on one of the handles that are attached to the body of the brew kettle.
Reliable Thermometer
This brew kettle comes with a high-accuracy thermometer that reads the temperature in both Celcius and Fahrenheit. It can be used to monitor temperatures as high as 100°C or 220°F without breaking apart or malfunctioning. You can easily mount it on the body of the brew kettle to monitor the temperature of your wort or other food accurately.
Verdict
The Mophorn Brew Kettle has a great size. You can easily brew a large volume of beer using little effort. You can also use it as a stockpot for making soup, stew, or other such food. The brew kettle is constructed using commercial-grade 304 stainless steel materials so you can expect it to perform exceptionally well in high heat. You can also use it in the oven. It won’t warp when exposed to rapid changes in temperature. Moreover, this brew kettle has a very sturdy structure so it is unlikely to become dented or damaged if it falls on the floor accidentally. This sturdy structure also makes it extremely durable, which means that you will be able to use it for a long period of time. The riveted handles allow you to lift or carry the 13.77-pound brew kettle from one place to another. On the other hand, this product comes with a matching stainless steel lid. However, the handle of the lid does not come assembled. You will need to screw it into the lid.
8. Kegco XBK30-P2 Brew Kettle
The Kegco XBK30-P2 Brew Kettle has a very minimalist design. It has a solid-colored stainless steel body with the logo printed on the front. Out of all the brew kettles mentioned in this article, this one offers the most spacious capacity of 50 gallons.
Tri-Clad Bottom
This stainless steel brew kettle is equipped with a tri-clad bottom, which enables it to conduct heat efficiently. It is designed to spread the heat uniformly throughout the massive vessel when exposed to a heat source. The tri-clad bottom is made using a combination of three different layers so it is quite thick. This allows it to retain heat at a constant temperature for a long period of time. The thick bottom also helps to prevent warping, which helps your brew kettle to maintain its shape and high quality throughout its lifespan.
Versatile Function
This brew kettle is very massive. It offers a capacity of 50 gallons so you can easily make a batch of 35 gallons of beer at once. It is best suited for commercial purposes so if you are planning on starting a homebrewing business, this brew kettle by Kegco might be a perfect choice. Apart from using it as a brew kettle, you can also use it as a stockpot for making soup, stews, corn, seafood, or even pasta. If you are hosting dinner for a big crowd, you can easily make a large batch of food without much hassle.
Easy Assembly
This brew kettle is very easy to assemble. It comes with pre-drilled holes so all you need to do is install the ball valves and the thermometer. Each of the two holes has a diameter of ⅞ inches. It comes with weldless bulkheads, three pieces of ball valves, and a dial thermometer. The weldless bulkheads are customizable and feature both male and female threads. The ½-inch ball valves can be assembled and disassembled easily for a thorough cleaning process. On the other hand, the dial thermometer reads the temperature in both °F and °C. It can record temperatures ranging from 0°F to 220°F or -10°C to 100°C.
Verdict
The Kegco XBK30-P2 Brew Kettle is great for everyday use. It has a sturdy structure that enables it to offer high functionality for several years. The brew kettle is made using heavy-duty 304 stainless steel and is equipped with a tri-clad bottom so you can expect it to perform exceptionally well in high heat. The high-quality stainless steel material also protects it from rust and corrosion. The inside of the brew kettle has measurement markings in both gallons and liters so you can quickly measure how much liquid you have poured. On the other hand, the brew kettle comes with a matching stainless steel lid that can be hung on the side of the handles for easy access. Speaking of handles, this brew kettle is also equipped with silicone handles that help to offer a more comfortable and secure grip when you are carrying the hot brew kettle from one place to another.
9. Anvil Brew Kettle
The Anvil Brew Kettle is made using heavy-gauge stainless steel, which makes it extremely durable. It has a well-structured body that makes it suitable for daily use.
Compact Size
Unlike most brew kettles, this one has a very compact size. It offers a capacity of only 7.5 gallons, which makes it perfect for individuals who are new to homebrewing. The compact size also makes it easy to store, especially for individuals who do not have a large kitchen space. Plus, it makes sense to invest in a small brew kettle if you are brewing beer for yourself only and not for commercial purposes.
Induction Ready
This brew kettle is safe to be used on induction cooktops, thanks to its tri-ply clad bottom. The three-layered bottom is constructed using a combination of stainless steel and aluminum. This enables it to conduct heat efficiently when placed over induction cooktops. The heat is distributed evenly throughout the brew kettle so there is no chance of overboiling.
Dual-Scale Thermometer
This brew kettle comes with convenient accessories such as ball valves and a thermometer. The thermometer has a dual scale which means that it reads temperatures in both °F and °C. The thermometer probe is placed 5.75 inches from the bottom so you will need to fill the brew kettle up to 3 gallons if you want to monitor the temperature accurately.
Verdict
The Anvil Brew Kettle is a solid product. It is constructed using premium-grade materials that enable it to perform well for a long period of time. The body is made using heavy 18-gauge 304 stainless steel materials so you can expect it to be well-protected against dents and rust. The inside of the brew kettle has measurement marks in both liters and gallons so you can quickly monitor how much liquid is poured into the brew kettle. Moreover, the handles of this product are very sturdy as well. They are not riveted so there is no chance of them breaking apart or becoming loose due to frequent use. The handles provide enough comfort and a firm grip when you are carrying the brew kettle from one place to another. On the other hand, all the parts are very easy to install. If you want, you can also add a strainer or a false bottom to turn your brew kettle into a mash tun.
10. Northern Brewer Edelmetall Brew Kettle
With more than 23 years’ worth of experience in brewing, a brand like Northern Brewer can guarantee excellence in its products. This Edelmetall Brew Kettle is highly functional equipment that offers outstanding performance and will allow you to brew like a professional, even if you are a novice.
Whirlpool Port
Unlike other brew kettles, this one is equipped with a whirlpool port which helps to improve the quality of your beer. This whirlpool port will help to cool the fermenting wort at a faster rate so you can quickly chill it after the boiling process. This enables most of the enzymes to survive through the process, which may improve the flavor and aroma of the beer. The whirlpool technology helps to get rid of hop debris and trub. These materials are kept separate from the fermenting wort so, you are more likely to end up with a clear, non-hazy batch of beer. If you wish to use the whirlpool port for mash recirculation, you will need to use a pump.
Easy Cleaning
This brew kettle does not have any internal threads, which makes cleaning a lot less hassle-free. You can quickly disassemble the parts to clean in between the valves and holes properly. Moreover, the smooth stainless steel structure also makes cleaning a breeze. All the stains and gunk wash off easily. All you need to do is rinse it well using warm, soapy water. The odor goes away as well with every wash so there is no transfer of smell.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
The brew kettle is made using professional-grade materials so you will not need to look for a replacement any time soon. You can easily use it for brewing several batches of beer daily. The entire structure is constructed using 304 stainless steel. The tri-clad base has a thickness of 4mm, which helps to transfer and retain heat efficiently. It also helps to maintain a constant temperature for a long period of time. The thick base and the sturdy structure prevent the brew kettle from warping when exposed to high temperatures. This further helps to keep your brew kettle in a good condition throughout the years.
Verdict
The Northern Brewer Edelmetall Brew Kettle is extremely powerful and is made to deliver great performance when brewing beer. It has a well-constructed body that protects it from rust and corrosion. This is a large brew kettle that offers a capacity of 15 gallons so there is enough room for making a large batch of beer at once. Its interior has measurement markings in gallons, which allows you to quickly measure the volume of the liquid. The whirlpool port is very useful for keeping the hop debris and trub separate from the fermenting wort. This feature enables it to produce crystal clear beer at home. The IsoFlow valve bulkhead and the dip tube make brewing a lot easier. On the other hand, this brew kettle has heat-proof silicone-covered handles that provide enough support and comfort while carrying it around. However, the handle on the lid may be a bit flimsy. Plus, it weighs 46 pounds so you might require some assistance when moving the fully filled brew kettle around.
Comparison Chart of The Best Brew Kettle
| Product Name | Weight (pounds) | Material | Capacity (gallons) | Product Dimensions (inches) | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GasOne BS-32 Brew Kettle | 12.07 | Stainless Steel | 8 | 12.5 x 12.5 x 18.5 | A |
| Bayou Classic Brew Kettle | 6.28 | Stainless Steel | 10 | 17.88 x 15.5 x 13.88 | A |
| Concord Cookware Brew Kettle | 7.88 | Stainless Steel | 10 | 17 x 16 x 16 | A |
| Bene Casa Brew Kettle | 3.20 | Stainless Steel | 5 | 12 x 12 x 12 | B |
| BREWSIE Brew Kettle | 15.47 | Stainless Steel | 8 | 12.5 x 12.5 x 17.5 | A |
| Northern Brewer Megapot Brew Kettle | 22.00 | StainlStainless Steeless Steel | 10 | 14.1 x 14.1 x 16.3 | A |
| Mophorn Brew Kettle | 13.77 | Stainless Steel | 12.5 | 15.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 | A |
| Kegco XBK30-P2 Brew Kettle | 34.50 | Stainless Steel | 50 | 23.75 x 24.5 x 23.5 | B |
| Anvil Brew Kettle | 15.00 | Stainless Steel | 7.5 | 17 x 15 x 14 | B |
| Northern Brewer Edelmetall Brew Kettle | 46.00 | Stainless Steel | 30 | 15 x 15 x 30 | A |
Things To Consider Before Purchasing The Best Brew Kettle
Capacity
It is highly recommended that you choose a brew kettle that is at least 1.5 times larger than the volume of your fermenting wort. If your brew kettle is very small and you pour a large volume of wort into it, there are very high chances of the wort boiling over or overflowing. This may cause injuries as the hot wort may burn your skin. Plus, it will make a huge mess in your kitchen as it tends to be a bit sticky. So, to prevent such mishaps from occurring, it might be best to invest in a large brew kettle that offers a capacity of at least 5 gallons. A large brew kettle will enable you to brew beer comfortably without any spillage.
If you are new to brewing beer at home, you may start out with a small brew kettle that offers a capacity of 3 gallons. On the other hand, if you are homebrewing for commercial purposes, you might want to opt for a much larger brew kettle, of say, at least 10 gallons. However, such a large brew kettle may be a bit difficult to store, especially if you have limited storage space.
Quality of Construction
Almost all brew kettles are made using stainless steel as it is considered to be a lot less corrosive than other metals. If you want your brew kettle to serve you well in the long run, you will need to ensure that it is made using premium-grade materials. Most people prefer brew kettles that are constructed using 304 stainless steel as it is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Another feature to look for in a brew kettle is that it should be thick enough to prevent warping when exposed to high levels of heat. This thick construction may also enable it to conduct and retain high temperatures for a long period of time. Moreover, a thick body allows you to drill holes in the brew kettle without ruining the material. Your brew kettle should have a sturdy structure to prevent it from breaking apart or becoming dented as a result of harsh impacts.
Ease of Handling
Your brew kettle should be easy to carry around from one place to another. It should have sturdy handles that provide a firm yet comfortable grip. The brew kettle may have either riveted handles or welded handles. Most users prefer welded handles over riveted ones. This is because the riveted handles tend to become quite loose after frequent use. They may break apart or feel a bit flimsy.
The handles on most brew kettles are made using stainless steel. Some brew kettles may cover the handles with silicone to provide more support and comfort when moving the brew kettle. The silicone acts as a heat-resistant material so you might not need to wear oven mitts or potholders while transporting your brew kettle. These silicone-covered handles may also help to prevent injuries.
Ease of Cleaning
The stainless steel structure of brew kettles makes cleaning a breeze. Since the surface is very smooth, all the stains and sticky residue wash off quickly. All you need to do is rinse it well using warm, soapy water. You may use a soft sponge or a non-abrasive cleaning brush to scrub off the stubborn residue. It is best to not use any harsh dish detergents as they may damage the outer surface of the brew kettle. If you are not a fan of cleaning brew kettles by hand, you can always invest in one that is safe to be used in the dishwasher. This will help to save a lot of time and effort.
Assembly
Most brew kettles are very easy to assemble. Some come pre-drilled so all you need is a wrench, a screwdriver, and some tape to install the ball valves, thermometer, spigot, or faucet. You may also install a false bottom or a perforated basket for keeping the solid particles separate from your liquid wort. If your brew kettle does not come pre-drilled, you will need to make holes in the body of the brew kettle to install a ball valve and other accessories. The assembly can be done within 10-15 minutes. Most brew kettles come with detailed instruction guides so you can easily follow through.
FAQ
Is it absolutely necessary to add hops while brewing beer?
Hops are small green flowers that help to enhance the flavor and aroma of the beer. They may also help to cancel out the sweetness from the malt extract. So, adding hops during the brewing process may be a good idea.
How do I prevent the wort from boiling over?
One of the obvious ways of preventing a boilover is by fermenting your wort in a very large brew kettle. However, there are other ways you can stop an overflow. When your wort starts to bubble rapidly, you can reduce the temperature to prevent overflowing. You can use a spatula to get rid of the foam on top. Moreover, it might be useful if you do not cover the brew kettle with the lid.
How often should I stir the fermenting wort?
You may need to stir the fermenting wort continuously while adding your desired malt extract. Otherwise, it will not mix completely as the malt extract has a quite concentrated and sticky texture. Once it has mixed fully, you will have a change in color and aroma.
Conclusion
Brewing your own beer has been made a lot easier, thanks to the best brew kettles. Whether you are homebrewing for commercial purposes or just for fun, one essential component for brewing good-quality beer is a brew kettle. It is a large vessel that is constructed using high-quality materials that enable it to perform well for a long period of time. You no longer need to use your stock pot for brewing beer. This also saves you from cleaning your stockpot vigorously to get rid of the smell of beer. You will also get to spend your free time in a creative way once you start the homebrewing process.