The California Common beer, or "steam beer," claims to be the only indigenous American brew. Brewers created this beer using a combination of methods typically reserved for ale and lager beer. The process results in a crisp, malty beer with the taste of a lager and the full-bodied, hoppy flavor of traditional ale. Beer drinkers often refer to this hybrid as steam beer, which refers to the cooling process. However, the name belongs to San Francisco's Anchor Brewing Company. Other brewers resort to calling it the California common beer.

Back in the Gold Rush days, brewers needed to find a way to make beer without the luxury of refrigeration. The Miner '49ers deserved a refreshing beverage after a hard day of panning gold, and the local brewmasters delivered. A team chose to use a special lager yeast that would ferment quickly at a lower temperature. The beer became so popular in the region that, during its heyday, 27 breweries manufactured the beverage.

Modern incarnations of steam beer appear light amber to red in color. The tastes range from toasted malt to mild fruitiness to herbal and caramel. The hoppy flavor reminds one of a typical ale but less bitter than an India pale ale (IPA). A chilled pilsner glass at between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit showcases the best flavors and increases the enjoyment of the beer's uniqueness. Show off your craft beer swagger at a barbecue or similar gathering by pairing it with pork loin, grilled pork chops, other chargrilled meats and seafood. Serve it as dessert along with tasty bread pudding.

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