Malted naked oats are becoming a popular adjunct grain for craft brewers seeking to enhance flavour and mouthfeel in their beers. Additionally, their lack of a hull boosts enzyme efficiency during malting, releasing more fermentable starches. Moreover, they impart a subtle, nutty flavour that perfectly balances hop bitterness and enriches overall beer complexity.
Silky mouthfeel
Unlike traditional oats, which have an outer hull, naked oats lack this husk. Consequently, the inner oat kernel is fully exposed during malting. This exposure increases enzyme activity and improves fermentability. Furthermore, without the unnecessary husk, brewers gain better value for money. They pay only for the useful grain, while still benefiting from the kernel’s rich nutritional properties.
Traditionally, oats have featured in Oatmeal Stouts to provide a silky mouthfeel and rich flavour. However, malted naked oats work well in a wide variety of beer styles, even in small amounts. In addition, the malting process unlocks more starches and proteins, boosting haze and enhancing the creamy mouthfeel of Hazy and New England IPAs. As a result, these oats add viscosity and smoothness to the palate.
Moreover, they contain high levels of lipids and beta-glucans, which improve head retention and create a fuller body. Consequently, the subtle oat flavour pairs nicely with hop flavours and aromas. It also helps round out a bitter IPA, adding depth without overpowering other ingredients. In practice, recommended usage rates range from 5% to 20% of the total grain bill. Therefore, brewers can tailor the intensity of oat character to suit their recipes.
Benefits of malted naked oats
Furthermore, experimenting with malted naked oats opens new creative possibilities for brewers. By blending them with other malts, you can create beers that are both unique and flavourful. Ultimately, the versatility makes them a valuable addition to any beer recipe. Their distinct qualities can transform an ordinary brew into something memorable.
In summary, malted naked oats offer numerous benefits for craft brewers. They enhance fermentability, enrich flavour, and improve mouthfeel and head retention. By incorporating these oats into your grain bill, you can craft beers with an exciting twist. So, why not experiment in your next batch and discover the new dimensions they bring to your brews?
