A revolution in the beer world
Before the hops completely took over the beers of the world, our beer grandmothers had an ace under their sleeve: the gruit. This old elixir, made with herbs and spices, was the key to giving medieval beers a unique touch, combining ingredients that could make you feel as if you were in a fairy tale … or in a slightly darker adventure.
The protagonists of the Gruit: a fascinating variety
The magic of the Gruit was in the diversity of herbs that made it up. The recipe could look more like a spell than a simple mixture, and farmers often jealously kept their secrets. Among the stars of the Gruit were: Milenrama, Artemis and the Sweet Sort, each contributing their own character. But the story does not end here, since additional ingredients such as ginger and sage also found their way in this mysterious mixture.
The hidden flavors: exploring herbs
Artemis: The bitter star
This well -known ingredient, also called ‘a criminal herb’, not only contributed a distinctive flavor, but also had a remarkable reputation for its ability to alter the mind. Her essential oils, full of Tuyona, made her quite a friend of the parties … sometimes, too much. Ideal for beers of those who did not fear surprises.
Milenrama: The sweetness of the wild
Known for his love on abandoned land, this herb promised us a delicate taste a few centuries ago. The ancient brewers worshiped her not only for her touch of bitterness, but also for her antibacterial properties, becoming a perfect ally to preserve her precious beer.
Discovering the sweet myrtle
Let’s get romantic for a moment: imagine and taste a beer with touches of eucalyptus. This was the sweet myrto, the star of the medieval gruit that was cooked next to the beer. Its resinous and spicy flavor attracted many souls. The best? Even today, some modern brewers are rediscovering their charm in the search for new flavor profiles.
A herbal garden in each sip
The potential of the Gruit extends beyond the three key herbs. Ingredients such as the sweet licorice, which can make your beer acquire a darker tone, or ginger, which adds a spicy blow, are just some of the jewels that have been added to the mixture. Even the fresh rosemary aroma was on the guest list!
Antiquity recipes that challenge time
In this exploration trip, it is inevitable to imagine how the original recipes of the Gruit would have varied from one region to another, influenced by the availability of local ingredients and family traditions. Each Lotecito of Gruit could be a story of passion and creativity, worthy of being recalled in the taverns of the time.
Final reflection on the Gruit
So, the next time you raise a drink, consider the gruit and its legacy. In a world where the hops absolute queen, remembering these ingredients of yesteryear can inspire a new revolution in the art of beers. After all, the history of Gruit reminds us that there is world beyond the conventional, and a lot of herbs waiting to be discovered!
