Indian beer is commonly known as Indian Pale Ale or IPA. This beer style has an interesting history that dates back to the British colonial times. During this period, sailors traveling from Britain to India were in search of a beer recipe that could withstand the long and arduous journey.
The story goes that traditional English ales did not fare well during the voyage to India due to the extreme temperatures and long duration of the trip. The beer would spoil and lose its quality before reaching its destination. This posed a problem for the British sailors who craved a refreshing beverage during their time at sea.
To address this issue, brewers in Britain developed a new beer style that was specifically designed to withstand the journey to India. They increased the alcohol content and hop levels in the beer, as these act as natural preservatives. The higher alcohol concentration made the beer more resistant to spoilage, while the generous use of hops added antibacterial properties and helped to preserve the beer during the long voyage.
This new beer style became known as Indian Pale Ale or IPA, a name that has stuck throughout history. The term “pale” refers to the lighter color of the beer compared to other styles popular at the time, such as porters and stouts. The “Indian” part of the name is a nod to its intended destination, as it was primarily brewed for the British sailors stationed in India.
Over time, IPA has evolved and gained popularity not only in India but also around the world. It is known for its strong hop flavors and aromas, often featuring floral, citrus, and pine notes. IPA has become a favorite among beer enthusiasts who appreciate its bold and assertive characteristics.
In recent years, India has also seen a rise in its own craft beer industry, with breweries experimenting and creating their own unique styles. These beers often draw inspiration from both traditional Indian ingredients and international brewing techniques. Some popular Indian craft beer styles include wheat beers, lagers, stouts, and of course, IPAs.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of trying various Indian beers during my travels. One particular IPA that stood out to me was brewed with locally sourced spices, such as cardamom and coriander, giving it a distinct Indian twist. It was a delightfully flavorful and aromatic beer that perfectly captured the essence of Indian cuisine.
To summarize, Indian beer is commonly referred to as Indian Pale Ale or IPA. It has its roots in British colonial times when sailors were seeking a beer that could withstand the long journey to India. IPA has since become a popular beer style worldwide, known for its strong hop flavors and aromas. India has also developed its own thriving craft beer scene, offering a range of unique and exciting brews.