Beer isn’t just for casual sipping—it can elevate a meal when paired with the right food. Just as wine has its ideal pairings, different beer styles complement a variety of flavors and dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal or just looking for a snack to go with your brew, here are some perfect food pairings for different types of beer.
Blonde Ale
Pairs well with: Grilled chicken, light salads, and seafood
Blonde Ales are light, crisp, and versatile, making them a great companion for lighter foods like grilled chicken, white fish, and summer salads. Their mild flavor won’t overpower the food, and their refreshing finish complements the simplicity of the dishes.
IPA (India Pale Ale)
Pairs well with: Spicy foods, burgers, and strong cheeses
The bold, hoppy bitterness of an IPA cuts through rich or spicy dishes. Try pairing an IPA with a spicy curry, buffalo wings, or a juicy burger topped with blue cheese. The bitterness will help balance out the heat, while the beer’s flavor stands up to heartier fare.
Red Ale
Pairs well with: Barbecue, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats
The malty sweetness of a Red Ale complements the smoky, caramelized flavors of grilled and roasted foods. Barbecue ribs, roasted root vegetables, and grilled sausages are all great choices to enjoy with a Red Ale. The slight sweetness and smooth body enhance the savory, charred notes of these dishes.
Oatmeal Stout
Pairs well with: Chocolate desserts, roasted meats, and oysters
The rich, creamy texture of an Oatmeal Stout is perfect for pairing with decadent desserts like chocolate cake or brownies. For a savory option, the roasted malt flavors also go wonderfully with grilled steak, braised meats, or even oysters—an unexpectedly delicious pairing.
Shandy
Pairs well with: Salads, seafood, and light snacks
Shandies, made by mixing beer with lemonade, are light, refreshing, and slightly sweet. Pair them with seafood dishes like shrimp tacos or grilled fish, or keep it simple with a crisp salad. They also go well with lighter appetizers like hummus and pita or fresh fruit.
Pumpkin Ale
Pairs well with: Roasted turkey, spiced desserts, and soft cheeses
Pumpkin Ale, with its warming spices and subtle sweetness, pairs beautifully with fall favorites like roasted turkey and stuffing. For dessert, try it with pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or spiced cookies. Soft, creamy cheeses like brie or camembert also complement the flavor profile of a Pumpkin Ale.
Pilsner
Pairs well with: Fried foods, sausages, and shellfish
Pilsners are crisp and clean, which makes them an excellent match for salty, fried foods like french fries, fried chicken, or fish and chips. The beer’s refreshing quality helps cleanse the palate, keeping you ready for the next bite. Pilsners also pair well with bratwurst or shellfish like crab and lobster.
General Pairing Tips:
- Contrast or complement: You can either contrast flavors (a hoppy IPA with spicy food) or complement them (a malty Red Ale with roasted meats).
- Match intensity: Lighter beers pair best with lighter dishes, while stronger beers should be paired with bolder flavors.
Whatever you’re eating, there’s a beer that can enhance the experience. So next time you pour a cold one, think about what’s on your plate—and enjoy the perfect pairing.