Forget green eggs and ham, fellow greenies. Party like a real saint this St. Patrick’s Day by not only throwing back a pint or two, but by making your beer green, eco style. You don’t have to be Irish to enjoy this holiday, and there are many reasons to celebrate not eating those nasty food dyes.
Did you know the original St. Patrick’s Day celebration color was blue? Lucky for us, it’s now green, which is a much easier color to make without artificial dyes.
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Try some of these easy au natural green beer ideas for your celebration:
Wheatgrass
Considering a greens powder will not only naturally green up your bevvy, it adds a healthy (literally) dose of nutrients. Wheatgrass is packed with chlorophyll, vitamins A, C, and E, along with iron, magnesium, and amino acids. Research shows that chlorophyll-rich foods like wheatgrass may support detoxification and provide antioxidant benefits.1 Some studies suggest chlorophyll may help reduce oxidative stress and support liver health, which could be particularly helpful when you’re indulging in a few celebratory drinks.2 The high levels of B vitamins may also help minimize next-day regrets.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae that has been a popular staple among health enthusiasts for decades. It has more antioxidant power than many superfoods and may be one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. Spirulina contains protein, B vitamins, copper, and iron, and research suggests it may support immune function and help reduce inflammation.3 Some people love the taste, while others find it a little seaweed-like. The high levels of B vitamins and antioxidants in spirulina may help support your body during celebrations.
Natural Food Coloring
Natural food coloring made from plant extracts (like these from Watkins) offers a safe alternative to synthetic dyes without the health concerns. Plant-based dyes derived from sources like spirulina, spinach, and other greens provide color without the potential risks associated with artificial food dyes, which have been linked to behavioral issues in children and other health concerns.4 Using natural colorings means you can enjoy the festive green hue without compromising on clean ingredients.
Here’s How to Make Your Beer Green, Naturally
1. Wheatgrass Green Beer
A shot of fresh or powdered wheatgrass juice will not only turn your ale into a nice shade of green, but it’s chock full of minerals and vitamins, which may make your hangover less likely to linger the next morning. For a 16-ounce pint of beer, add 1 tablespoon of wheatgrass juice to the glass, pour in the beer, and stir.
2. Spirulina Green Beer
There are home-brewing methods for making spirulina beer, but you’d need to get a jump on that well before the holiday. Still, you can add ¼ to ½ a teaspoon of spirulina powder to a beer and watch it turn green. Like with wheatgrass, the high levels of B vitamins may also prevent some of the next-day regrets.
3. Natural Food Coloring
Several companies now make natural and organic food coloring and dyes using only plant extracts. Brands like Supernatural, Color Kitchen, and India Tree offer plant-based green food colorings that use ingredients like spirulina and spinach. Check your local health food store or search online for all-natural food-based dyes. Follow the package instructions for the amount to add to your beer for the perfect shade of green.
St. Patrick’s Day Menu Ideas
Planning a full St. Patrick’s Day feast? Pair your naturally green beer with a spread that celebrates the holiday without compromising on flavor or health. Start with this chocolate mint smoothie that tastes like a milkshake (it’s green, festive, and packed with nutrients). For the main event, serve up a hearty shepherd’s pie, or go all-out with a vibrant emerald salad with pickled berries and Irish cheese. Round out the menu with our vegetarian crispy roasted cabbage and smashed potatoes, or, if you’re an omnivore, with a classic pot roast and potatoes. Raise your naturally green beer and celebrate in style.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4717945/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4966572/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6960758/
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The post 3 Ways to Make Naturally Green Beer for St. Patrick’s Day appeared first on Organic Authority.
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