Boiling Hops

[PieOPah]

Just wondering what the best method of boiling your hops is. I guess that this would be the same whether extract or AG but since I am currently an extract brewer I thought it best to go here.

Anway, currently I do the following with my brew

Bring the water to about 75C and steep any grain for 30mins. I then remove the grain and allow this to drip. I know I should sparge but currently I don't!

Next I bring the liquid to the boil and add my malt extract. With a vigorous boil I wait until the foaming (hot break?) has pretty much gone. At this point, using a grain bag I add my hops. Initially I used a hop bag but had been told that utilization was better if put directly into the wort. I thought that using a grain bag would amount to the same thing but make it easier to remove.

Is this an okay method? Would it be better to get a hop strainer for my kettle (Brupack Heater) and not use the grain bag?

Thanks,

[PieOPah]

Thanks, I'll invest in a hop strainer then I think

Feel free to move to the Hops section. Thanks

[tribs]

Personally, I don't believe utilisation is improved noticeably by boiling hops loose. Nor do I believe it improves hot break, but, if you are going to get a hop strainer, why not let us know if you notice a difference. I'd be surprised if you do.

[mysterio]

I've got one of those hop strainers and they're a nuisence to clean! If you're doing a hoppy brew like an IPA it might get clogged when you're straining.