The craft beer industry now boasts over 9,000 U.S. breweries, creating unique flavors begging to be paired with food. Mastering beer pairing elevates both the meal and drinking experience.
Pairing Principles
- Balance: Pair bitter IPAs with spicy foods to cut heat
- Contrast: Match sweet stouts with salty snacks like pretzels
- Complement: Pair malty lagers with grilled meats
4 Classic Pairings
- IPA + Spicy Wings: The citrusy hops balance fiery sauces.
- Stout + Dark Chocolate: Roasty malt complements cocoa bitterness.
- Lager + Sushi: Crisp carbonation cleanses the palate between bites.
- Wheat Beer + Grilled Chicken: Fruity esters enhance herb-marinated poultry.
Brewmaster Interview
“Great pairings create harmony,” says John Smith of Local Brewery Co. “Try our Raspberry Wheat with goat cheese salad – the acidity cuts through richness.”
Conclusion
Visit our interactive map to explore local breweries offering pairing flights. What’s your go-to beer pairing? Share in the comments!
