Although there are a number of types and tastes in beer, and the flavors between them vary widely, there’s one thing on which we can all agree. Texas beer is top notch, and if you fancy yourself a zythophile (fancy for “beer lover”), then St. Patrick’s Day is probably something you look forward to. The parades, parties, and green beer-related activities abound, but you don’t necessarily have to go out to enjoy the day or have a good time. You could consider a low-key beer tasting at a craft brewery, of which there are many throughout the Lone Star State. Or you could plan to share a beer flight at home with friends. Like any great party planned around an alcoholic beverage, there are some definitive food pairings that one should consider when entertaining such festivities. Creating your own ultimate beer and food pairing menu doesn’t have to seem daunting, however. Here are a few tips.
Lifestyle
The Best Beer & Food Pairings to Maximize Your St. Patrick’s Day Fun
1. Find Complementing Flavors
Photo: Pexels
Look for complementing flavors for the easiest food and beer pairings. Beers such as porters or stouts, which have heavy and rich flavors, should be paired with similarly rich foods. Likewise, light-tasting beer should go nicely with fish or light-tasting salads.
2. Don’t Overpower One or the Other
Photo: Pexels
Bear in mind that the amount of flavor from either a strong food or a strong beer can overpower one or the other. That’s generally a no-no in pairings. And contrasting flavors are a great concept, but they can be a fine line to walk. It’s best for these flavors not to clash or get muddled in the process.
3. Pairings by Beer Product and Type of Food
Photo: Pexels
Light lagers and wheat beers go great with spicy foods. If you’re a steak, barbecue, or Mexican food fan (and who in Texas isn’t?), then you’ll want to match that with an India Pale Ale (IPA). Amber ales and dark lagers go well with pizza, burgers, and some smoke-flavored foods. Brown ales and porters do well with seafood. And stouts go great with chocolate desserts – if your group is so inclined. The possibilities for great beer and food pairings that will make your St. Patrick’s Day fun that much better are practically endless!
