A brew kettle is a large pot used in the process of brewing beer. It is where the wort, a mixture of water and malted grains, is heated and boiled. This step is crucial for extracting flavors and sugars from the grains, as well as for sterilizing the mixture before fermentation. Typically made of stainless steel or copper, brew kettles come in various sizes to accommodate different brewing scales. They often feature a spigot for easy pouring and may include a thermometer and a sight glass for monitoring temperature and liquid levels. The brew kettle is an essential piece of equipment for both homebrewers and commercial breweries.