WATCH: How to make tasty cheese fondue with Ohio craft beer

For this week’s “blog” post I take to the camera to show you how to cook with Ohio’s craft beer. And you thought it was just for drinking? Well guess again!

Ohio’s craft beer can be used in a lot of different recipes, but in this post I show you how to make some delicious pale ale fondue.

So take a look for yourself and see just how easy it is to cook with one of Ohio’s many craft beers.

As promised in the video, here’s the recipe for the pale ale fonde. Props to the good people at Great Lakes Brewing Company for putting such a delicious recipe on their website!

Now if you aren’t feeling cheesy, don’t fret! Many beers can also be used to cook things like bread and desserts. In fact, here’s another great recipe from Great Lakes: Ohio City Oatmeal Stout cream pies! YUM!

Let me know if you try the recipe in the video or any other ones for that matter! Feel free to pass along some other tasty beer-based food recipes if you know some too. Until next time, cheers!

Three Ohio craft breweries that you need to try today!

For my first post I thought it’d be great to talk about three Ohio-based breweries that not only serve tasty craft beer, but also have a little something more to offer. So whether it’s your first time hearing about these great breweries or your 20th, I’m sure you’ll find a beer that suits you. So without further ado, here’s my top three list:

3. Maumee Bay Brewing Company, Toledo, Ohio

The Maumee Bay Brewing Company opened its doors in downtown Toledo in 1995.

The Maumee Bay Brewing Company has been brewing up delicious craft beer for Toledoans since 1995. And while they’ve only been around for 20 years, Maumee Bay offers some great options for people with different tastes. Being a craft brewery the Maumee Bay Brewing Company offers seasonal and rotational beer options. All together the brewery has created an impressive 39 beers in its 20 years, including staples such as ales, IPAs and porters. Maumee Bay Brewing Company also houses a brewpub in its historical Oliver House complex that offers delicious meals in a casual atmosphere.

Recommendation: Buckeye Beer

Perhaps the best-known beer that the Maumee Bay Brewing Company is known for is Buckeye Beer. Described as “sparkling dry” this light beer has been brewed in Toledo (although not by the brewery itself) since 1838. I’ve consumed this “Glass City” brew a number of times and find it pairs well almost any occasion as it’s on the lighter side. Plus, you don’t have to be at the brewery to consume it. Buckeye Beer is sold and distributed all over the state and is available in bottles, cans and even kegs

2. Willoughby Brewing Company, Willoughby, Ohio

Willoughby brews a delicious Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter!

Next on the list is Willoughby Brewing Company. Truth be told, I didn’t know about this wonderful brewery until I moved to Northeast Ohio for school. Boy, am I glad I discovered it too! Willoughby Brewing Company has an impressive 40 beers in its portfolio, including takes on international classics like German Hefeweizens, Irish Dry Stouts and Belgian Saisons. If 40 beers aren’t enough, then you should also try the brewery’s delicious food and check out its weekly entertainment lineup.

Recommendation: Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter

Willoughby’s Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter has got to be one of my all time favorite beers. Hands down. Zero argument. I was first introduced to this beer at Kent’s signature bar, Ray’s Place. Ray’s always has a great selection of beers on tap and Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Porter is certainly one of those. As some of you may (or may not) know, a porter is dark, strong beer that contains hints of coffee and chocolate flavors. The addition of peanut butter only sweetens (or bitters?) the deal with this beer. Sadly, this delicious beer is not sold in a bottle or can. However, you can get it on tap at the brewery itself, at your local craft beer bar (fortunately Ray’s continues to carry it!) or in a growler.

1. Great Lakes Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio

Great Lakes Brewing Company has brewed more than 50 craft beers since its inception in 1988.

Now I’m sure some people would disagree with me on this choice, but hear me out on the decision. Great Lakes Brewing Company is arguably the best-known Ohio craft brewery as it boasts more than 50 beers in its arsenal. In fact, many Great Lakes beers are available across the country. From its classic Dortmunder Gold Lager to seasonal favorites like Christmas Ale, Great Lakes Brewing Company offers a beer that almost anyone can enjoy. In addition to being able to enjoy Great Lakes beer at your local pub or from the comfort of your home, the brewery also serves up its beer at many Cleveland and Northeast Ohio sporting events. From the Browns to the Cavaliers to the Indians (try the Rally Drum Red Ale), Cleveland sports fans are never far from a tasty Ohio made brew to go along with their favorite sport. On top of all of this, Great Lakes also has a brewpub, offers tours and has weekly events. Heck, there’s even a beer school where you can become a beer expert! Sign me up!

Recommendation: Dortmunder Gold Lager

An oldie, but a goodie, Great Lakes Brewing Company’s Dortmunder Gold is a great beer that’s easy to drink and respected by beer lovers alike. In fact, “Dort” is a 16-time medal winner in beer competitions globally! The beer’s smooth and dry hop flavors make it a great beer for sharing with your friends or keeping for yourself. If you’ve never tried this beer, get out and get some today! Dortmunder Gold is available year-round and comes in bottles and kegs.

So what are your thoughts on my choices? Do you agree or disagree? Do you think I got the list wrong or right? Comment and let me know!