Beer is the world's oldest and most popular alcoholic beverage, selling more than 133 billion litres (35 billion gallons) per year. It is produced through the fermentation of starch-based material, commonly barley, though cassava root in Africa, potato in Brazil, and agave in Mexico, among other starch sources, have been used.

Alcoholic beverages made from the fermentation of sugars derived from nonstarch sources (e.g., grape juice or honey), and beverages which are distilled after fermentation are not considered to be beer.

Because the ingredients and procedures used to make beer can differ, characteristics such as taste and colour may also vary. While local names for beers made with the same methods and ingredients vary, the similarities of method and ingredients can be detected to form a study of the nature of beer styles.

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L.A. Times - Food & Dining

The story behind Philippe's and its famous French dip
Sun, 05 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700
The Los Angeles landmark will celebrate its centennial Monday with dignitaries, the founder's grandson and slashed prices. Philippe's, home of the French dip sandwich, turns 100 this year, and for much of the last century local historians and foodies have been arguing over one question: How was the dish created?
A movable feast day
Wed, 19 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0800
As the end of Ramadam -- Islam's holiest month -- is celebrated around the world, this week's Encore recipe from 2005 takes a look at other festive dishes that are traditional to the Muslim table. Tomorrow night is the beginning of Eid al-Adha, the Muslim holiday corresponding to the final day of the Mecca pilgrimage. Non-Muslims are probably more familiar with Eid al-Fitr, which ends the Ramadan fast, but Eid al-Adha -- the Feast of the Sacrifice -- is actually the more important celebration. It's also known as the Great Feast (Eid al-Kabir).
Home beer brewing calls to a new generation -- and to women
Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700
Clubs, websites and blogs are springing up as enthusiasts experiment with new brews and share what they've learned along the way. IT'S ONE of the many home brew competitions that take place around the country each year. There's the panel of certified judges, the international entrants in 28 categories of beer and mead -- and there's the hops-filled afternoon of sipping and scribbling until a winner is crowned.

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