If you’re breaking out the sours this Thanksgiving, New Belgium Brewing Co. (NBB) has some tips. NBB suggests to look for contrast when pairing sour beers with food, rather than trying to match the beers with similarly sour or tart foods like salad dressings or greens.
“The fun thing to do with sour beers is contrast,” said Lauren Salazar, NBB wood cellar and specialty brand manager. “Gamey cuts of meat. Confit. Rillettes. Pâté. Sour beers cut through the fattiness and highlight other flavors. My super fave is when there’s something on the side, like strawberry jam or cherry to bring out similar notes in the beer.”
Sour Beer Thanksgiving Pairings
Dark turkey meat and stuffing. The convergence of gamey, fatty and salty perfectly contrasts La Folie’s fruity, sour snap. Also: sweet potatoes doused in butter.
The dry-hopped wild ale’s sweet tropical fruits and sour bite play perfectly with pineapple-glazed ham and a side of candied yams. The salt, sour, fruit and sweetness all balances out. Also: Ambrosia with whipped cream, coconut and green Jello.
Check out NBB’s Thanksgiving blog series for tips on pairing other styles with your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
While you’re in the pairing mood, check out CraftBeer.com’s new Beer and Food Pairing Chart to help you plan your Thanksgiving Day pairings like a pro!
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