The ingredients to make a nice cold beer are usually available in most markets, and the bottle caps can be found at most hardware stores. You will also need a crock, about 10 gallons and a hydrometer of the type designed for brewing. The purpose of the hydrometer is to determine when the sugar  content of the mix is less than 1% or not. The hydrometer will float on top of the mix for about 3 days, and when it sinks down to the bottom then you are ready to bottle the brew. You will need empty bottles for this purpose. The quart size is best and make sure they are clean and dry.

 Ingredients: Malt-2 cups, Hops-5 cups, Sugar-3 cups, Yeast-1 tbsp, Water-2 gallons.

 Add more malt for a darker color. If you need a stronger flavor add more sugar and a small amount of brewer’s hops. In order to get the best flavor, use 2 cups of fine sugar and 3 cups of brown sugar. This will give about 19% by volume. Heat about 2 quarts of water and dissolve the malt syrup.

Add sugar to the mix slowly and stir until dissolved. Let the mix boil for several minutes then pour into crock and add the balance of water. If you use hops wrap them in a cheese cloth and hang it in the mix. Wait about three hours and skim off foam. Place the hydrometer in the mix and from this point on keep your eye on it. It will sink in about three days or so and you are ready to bottle your beer.

The best way to bottle is to use a small hose but do not disturb the mix. Slowly place the hose about one inch from the bottom and start pouring. As each bottle is filled about one and a half inch from the top, pinch the hose to stop the flow and then release and fill the next bottles and let them age at least 10 days. The very best flavor comes after about 3 months. You can start another batch immediately as you will want to start drinking the first one almost immediately but always remember, don’t drink and drive.