Hot beer? Are you joking! Do you mean warm ale? No. This is Grzane Piwo, or Grzaniec, which is exactly what it sounds like – hot beer. But not just heated beer. Spices and flavors have been added, and it is served perfectly in bars all over Poland. It’s a must-try for tourists, especially during the winter months. Here’s a quick guide.
What is Grzane piwo exactly?
Grzaniec, also known as Grzane Piwo (hot beer), is exactly that. It’s beer that has been mulled and served hot – not cold, not warm. But there’s more to Grzaniec than just the temperature. The beer also contains added spices and ingredients to give it a unique zesty flavor. However, the name Grzaniec can also refer to hot wine or mulled wine, so be aware of this when ordering. In some cases, it might be best to simply ask for ‘hot beer’ in English. A popular brand of the wine variety is called Grzaniec Galicyjski.
How can you make Grzane piwo?
Recipes for Grzane piwo can vary, and different venues throughout Poland offer different varieties. The most common types are with cinnamon or raspberry. Here’s a quick guide on how to make cinnamon and ginger flavored Grzane piwo:
1. Turn on the stove.
2. Pour 500 ml of regular unpasteurized beer into a saucepan.
3. Add 3 tablespoons of honey.
4. Add 1 large orange and 1 teaspoon of cloves.
5. Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
6. Add 1/4 teaspoon of ginger.
7. Add 1 egg yolk (optional).
8. Stir for a few minutes.
9. Once it starts to bubble, it’s ready!
Where can you try Grzane piwo?
Grzane piwo is generally available throughout Poland and can be easily found in bars and restaurants, especially during the winter. You can also buy pre-made bottles of it from liquor stores or supermarkets. Simply pour it into a saucepan at home and heat it before drinking. However, if you’re in Warsaw, Poznań, or Gdańsk, these three venues in these top Polish cities will serve you a great glass. As the Poles say, Na zdrowie! (Cheers!)
