Barley malt is a thick, dark, slow-digesting sweetener made from sprouted barley. It has a malt-like flavor. Half as sweet as honey, strong flavor, resembles molasses in consistency and sweetness.

Some say barley malt is to beer as grapes are to wine. It is ideally suited to brewing for many reasons: Malted barley has a high complement of enzymes for converting its starch supply into simple sugars; it also contains protein, which is needed for yeast nutrition. Another important element is its flavor. Pure malt extract, which is relatively expensive, is sometimes adulterated with corn syrup, which is cheap. Barley malt extract (available in powder and liquid forms) is also used medicinally as a bulking agent to promote bowel regularity.

Recipes

Table of Sugars and Sweeteners

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• The Dictionary of Beer and Brewing by Dan Rabin