Cornmeal Mash Recipe for Moonshine: Step by Step Guide
Making moonshine at home can be a fun project. This guide will help you create a great cornmeal mash. Follow each step carefully for the best results.
Ingredients Needed
Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 5 pounds of cornmeal
- 5 gallons of water
- 10 pounds of sugar
- 2 packets of yeast
Tools Required
Besides ingredients, you’ll need some tools. Here is a list of tools to prepare:
- Large pot
- Thermometer
- Fermentation bucket
- Stirring spoon
- Cheesecloth
Step 1: Heating the Water
Start by heating 5 gallons of water. Pour the water into a large pot. Heat the water to about 165°F. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. This is important for the next steps.
Step 2: Adding Cornmeal
Once the water reaches 165°F, it’s time to add the cornmeal. Slowly add 5 pounds of cornmeal to the water. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This will take about 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cooling the Mixture
After mixing the cornmeal, let the mixture cool. It needs to cool to around 150°F. Use the thermometer to check the temperature. Cooling is important before adding sugar.
Step 4: Adding Sugar
When the mixture reaches 150°F, add 10 pounds of sugar. Stir the mixture until all the sugar dissolves. This process can take a few minutes. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for fermentation.
Step 5: Cooling Again
Let the mixture cool again. This time, it needs to reach 70°F to 80°F. Use the thermometer to monitor the temperature. This is crucial before adding yeast.
Step 6: Adding Yeast
Once the mixture is at 70°F to 80°F, add the yeast. Use 2 packets of yeast. Stir the mixture gently. This will start the fermentation process. Yeast is important for converting sugars to alcohol.
Step 7: Fermentation Process
Pour the mixture into a fermentation bucket. Cover the bucket with cheesecloth. This allows air to escape but keeps contaminants out. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 7 days. The mixture will bubble during this time. This is a sign of fermentation.
Step 8: Checking for Completion
After 5 to 7 days, check the mixture. The bubbling will slow down. This means fermentation is almost complete. Use a hydrometer to check the alcohol content. It should be around 10% to 15%.
Step 9: Distillation
Once fermentation is complete, it’s time to distill. Pour the mixture into a still. Heat the still slowly. Collect the distilled liquid. This is your moonshine. Be careful during this step. Distilling can be dangerous.
Safety Tips
Making moonshine involves some risks. Follow these safety tips:
- Work in a well-ventilated area
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
- Never leave the still unattended
Conclusion
Making cornmeal mash for moonshine is a detailed process. Follow each step carefully. Always prioritize safety. Enjoy your homemade moonshine responsibly.
