Homemade Samuel Adams Just the Haze Non-Alcoholic IPA Beer Alcohol Free 12 fl oz Cans Recipe: A Healthier, Hoppier Twist

Category: Beverage

Introduction

Samuel Adams Just the Haze is a beloved non-alcoholic IPA known for its crisp, hoppy flavor and refreshing finish. Crafted by the renowned Samuel Adams brewery, it offers beer enthusiasts a guilt-free alternative without compromising on taste. This recipe allows you to recreate this favorite at home, using natural ingredients that not only mirror the original's flavor but also offer a healthier profile with less sugar and no artificial additives. Perfect for those seeking a customizable, cost-effective option, this homemade version brings the brewery experience right to your kitchen.

Why Make It at Home?

Creating your own version of Samuel Adams Just the Haze allows for customization, be it tweaking the sweetness level, experimenting with different hop varieties, or adjusting the bitterness to your liking. It's also a cost-effective solution and offers a healthier alternative with lower sugar content.

Personal Anecdote

During a summer BBQ, I first tasted Samuel Adams Just the Haze and was amazed by its authentic beer taste without the alcohol. Intrigued, I set out to recreate it at home, experimenting with hop teas and natural sweeteners. The result was a refreshing, healthier drink that became a hit at gatherings.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:5 minutes
• **Total Time:15 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings (12 fl oz each)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 tsp (5g) dried hop pellets (Cascade or similar)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (for color)
• 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (optional, for mouthfeel)

Wet Ingredients:

• 4 cups (1L) water
• 1/4 cup (60g) natural sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or sugar)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice (optional, for citrus twist)
• Club soda (for carbonation)

Instructions

• Make Hop Tea: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a simmer. Add dried hops, reduce heat, and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain into a large pitcher, discarding solids.
• Add Sweetener and Turmeric: Stir in sweetener and turmeric until dissolved.
• Chill: Let mixture cool, then refrigerate until chilled.
• Carbonate: Stir in club soda gently.
• Optional Citrus Twist: Add orange juice for a zesty flavor.

Variations

• Different Hops: Experiment with hops like Chinook for a spicier note or Mosaic for fruitiness.
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of ginger for a kick.
• Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey.

Special Equipment

• Saucepan, strainer, large pitcher, refrigerator.

Pro Tips

• Hop Balance: Adjust hop quantity to suit bitterness preference.
• Freshness: Use fresh hops for vibrant flavor.
• Carbonation: Adjust club soda for desired fizz.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Q: Can I use fresh hops?
  A: Yes, but use more as they are less potent.
• Q: How long does it keep?
  A: Up to 5 days refrigerated.
• Q: Can I make it sweeter?
  A: Adjust sweetener to taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a refreshing drink or pair with spicy dishes for a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to Samuel Adams Just the Haze, capturing its essence with fewer calories. Share your creations and savor the craft of brewing at home!