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 boiled. This step is crucial as it helps extract flavors and aromas from the ingredients, and it also sterilizes the mixture. Typically made of stainless steel, 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 volume. Proper use of a brew kettle is essential for producing quality beer.