where rice syrup is gaining popularity as a substitute for sugar, a 1-kilogram artisanal bottle can reach $140. It's all due to sikhye: a mixture of steamed rice, hot water, and barley malt.

Depending on how efficiently the yeast is allowed to work, the alcohol and sugar content can be controlled. Most beers are made from malted barley or wheat, with some exceptions as in the case of ...

Malt is created when simple grains such as barley, rye or wheat are left to germinate and sprout. When this happens, the starch is converted into a simple sugar called maltose. If the grain is ...