Storing hops - this way they can be kept for a long time

Storing hops correctly - this is how you preserve hops

This is how you can tell that the hops are ripe

Unfortunately, it is not possible to tell from the outside whether the hops are ripe or need some time. You need to open a spigot and see. This shows that the hops can be harvested.

Ripe in August or September
Lupulin powder inside is golden yellow in color
The inside of the hops gives off an aromatic scent

To preserve the hops by drying them

In order to brew beer or to obtain lupulin for medicinal purposes, you have to make hops durable by drying them. Only then does the aroma develop completely. The cones can only be stored dry for a long time.

Drying the hops - this is how it's done!

Pick the twigs, remove the leaves and tie a bouquet. This is hung upside down in a dark, warm, dry place. If you just want to dry the cones, lay them loosely on a colander or grid and let them air dry.

You can also dry the hops in the convection oven for storage. To do this, preheat the oven to around 80 degrees and let the cones dry out for around two hours.

After drying, the hops are stored in bags in a dry place until they are processed.

Store hops in the freezer

You can also freeze the dried hop cones. They keep in the freezer for several months and can be easily removed in portions.

Use hops as a stylish fall decoration

The yellow-green cones of hops are a very decorative autumn ornament. To do this, cut off the entire shoot. Remove all leaves. They dry up very quickly and are then no longer attractive. Put the twigs in a glass with water.

Tips

Hops are more versatile than you think. The fruits are not only suitable for brewing beer. You can also use it to make tea and various natural remedies.