fermentation - Home Food Crafts

The Ancient Art and Modern Revival of Nixtamalization: Unlocking Corn’s Full Potential

admin4 days ago017 mins

In a significant resurgence of interest in traditional culinary practices, the ancient Mesoamerican process of nixtamalization, which transforms dried corn into nutrient-rich masa, is gaining renewed appreciation among chefs, home cooks, and nutritionists worldwide. This sophisticated preparation method, central to Mexican gastronomy for millennia, is being recognized not only for its profound cultural heritage but…

American Homebrewers Association Announces Holiday Closure, Anticipates Renewed Engagement in the New Year

admin5 days ago016 mins

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has announced a temporary closure from December 25, 2025, through January 1, 2026, as its staff takes time to celebrate the holiday season. This annual hiatus, a common practice for many organizations, allows employees to spend time with family and friends and to recharge before embarking on the challenges and…

Navigating the Longevity of Fermented Foods: A Comprehensive Guide to Shelf Life, Preservation, and Sensory Trust

admin5 days ago023 mins

The enduring question of "how long do ferments last?" remains one of the most frequently posed inquiries within the burgeoning community of home fermenters and culinary enthusiasts alike. While specific timelines can be provided, the overarching principle that guides the enjoyment and safety of any food, fermented or not, is the astute reliance on one’s…

Home Fermentation Day Celebrates a Growing Global Interest in Crafting Fermented Foods and Beverages

admin5 days ago011 mins

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is once again shining a spotlight on the multifaceted world of fermentation with its annual Home Fermentation Day. This observance, designed to encourage and celebrate home-based fermentation projects, invites enthusiasts to share their creations and explore the vast possibilities within this ancient practice. From the familiar realms of homebrewed beer,…

Modernizing Legal Shipping for Homebrew Competitions

admin5 days ago016 mins

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has officially announced a significant initiative aimed at rectifying a long-standing logistical hurdle for the nation’s thriving homebrewing community: the difficulty in legally shipping homebrewed beverages for competition entry. Despite homebrewing being legal in all 50 states and Washington D.C., the practical realities of transporting entries to sanctioned events remain…

Mastering Microbial Magic: The Critical Role of Temperature in Successful Fermentation

admin5 days ago020 mins

Temperature stands as a foundational determinant in the intricate biochemical processes of fermentation, dictating the activity, growth, and metabolic pathways of the microscopic organisms responsible for transforming raw ingredients into a vast array of fermented foods and beverages. Much like humans, the beneficial microbes – yeasts, bacteria, and molds – that drive fermentation exhibit optimal…

Alan Sprints, Visionary Brewer Behind Hair of the Dog, Dies at 61

admin5 days ago013 mins

Alan Sprints, a pioneering force in the craft beer movement and the visionary founder of Portland’s acclaimed Hair of the Dog Brewing Company, passed away on July 14, 2026, at the age of 61, following a courageous battle with metastatic stage 4 bladder cancer. Sprints, widely recognized for his innovative approach to brewing and his…

Call for Applications: Founding Director of Development (Independent Contractor)

admin5 days ago015 mins

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is actively seeking a seasoned fundraising professional to spearhead the establishment of its newly formed A-Ha Foundation as its inaugural Founding Director of Development. This pivotal independent contractor role marks a significant step in formalizing and expanding the foundation’s mission to champion fermentation education, preserve brewing heritage, foster research, and…

The 2026 National Homebrew Competition Gears Up for Its 48th Year of Celebrating Brewing Excellence

admin6 days ago017 mins

Clear your calendars and prepare your finest brews, as the world’s largest and most fiercely contested homebrewing competition, the National Homebrew Competition (NHC), is officially on the horizon for 2026. This marks the 48th iteration of this esteemed event, a testament to its enduring legacy and its central role in fostering innovation and camaraderie within…

Serve on the AHA Board

admin6 days ago015 mins

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is actively seeking passionate and dedicated members to contribute to its leadership by serving on its Board of Directors. This crucial role involves shaping the organization’s strategic direction, guiding its various committees, and ensuring that the AHA remains a member-driven entity focused on the future of homebrewing. The nomination period…