Moonshine is also known as white lightning and is made using homemade stills. Despite its reputation, moonshine is not illegal in most states. The first step in making moonshine is creating the perfect moonshine mix.
This article will show you how to make a tasty and potent moonshine mash.
Choosing your ingredients
Quality ingredients are the key to making a great moonshine. The main ingredient in moonshine is corn. However, you can also use other grains, such as barley or wheat. You will also need sugar, yeast and water. You should choose a yeast that’s good for distilling. This will improve the taste of your moonshine.
How to cook the mash
Boiling the ingredients is the first step in making moonshine. Start by grinding the grains into a fine powder. Mix the sugar and hot water with the grain in a large saucepan. The ratio of grain to water should be 1:4. The mixture should be heated to 150-160 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave to cook for an hour. This will break down the starch in the grain and release the sugars.
Fermentation and cooling
Once the mash has cooled to room temperature, add the yeast and mix well – this will convert any sugars in the mash into alcohol! Cover your pot and allow the mash to ferment into alcohol and carbon dioxide for 7–10 days; during this time, keep your mash warm in a dark place to maximize results.
Distilling the mash
Once the mash has fermented, it is time to distill. This step requires a moonshine still, which you can buy online or make yourself. The still collects the alcohol vapors released by the mash after it has been heated. The vapors from the mash are cooled and then condensed into liquid form to produce moonshine. It’s important to take safety precautions when using a still, as the process involves high temperatures and flammable substances.
Testing moonshine after distillation
After distillation, it’s important to test the alcohol content of your moonshine to ensure it’s between 40-50% alcohol. Dilute with water if it is too strong; distill again if it is too weak; once you have reached the desired alcohol content, age your moonshine in either a barrel or glass jar for smoother flavors and improved taste profiles.
Moonshine mashing can be an exciting and satisfying process, producing an incredibly potent and flavorful drink. Before you start distilling the perfect moonshine for your friends and family to enjoy, make sure you are familiar with local laws and safety precautions, as well as the ingredients you will need. Good luck and cheers!
