Summer is upon us, which means it’s time to dust off the grill and start hosting backyard BBQs with family and friends. But if you want to take your BBQ to the next level, you need to think beyond just burgers and hot dogs. Pairing the right food and drink together can truly enhance your summer BBQ experience. In this post, I will share some of the best food and drink pairings that will elevate your BBQ game this summer.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the most classic BBQ food – meat. Whether you’re grilling up steaks, ribs, chicken, or sausages, a good BBQ sauce is essential. Pairing your meat with a bold and smoky BBQ sauce can bring out the flavors of the meat and add an extra layer of deliciousness. For red meats like steak or ribs, a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec is the perfect pairing. The tannins in the wine help cut through the richness of the meat, while the fruity notes complement the smoky flavors of the BBQ sauce.
If you’re grilling up chicken or pork, opt for a lighter red wine like a Pinot Noir or a fruity rosé. These wines are more refreshing and won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the meat. For those who prefer white meat, a crisp and acidic white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay is a great choice. The acidity in the wine will help balance out the fattiness of the meat, while the tropical fruit notes will complement the grilled flavors.
But what about those who prefer to skip the meat and opt for a vegetarian or vegan BBQ spread? Fear not, there are plenty of delicious food and drink pairings for you too. Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a tangy vinaigrette or creamy aioli can take them to the next level. For a refreshing drink to accompany your veggie BBQ, try a crisp and herbaceous white wine like a Grüner Veltliner or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the aioli or vinaigrette, while the herbal notes complement the grilled vegetables perfectly.
Of course, no BBQ is complete without some side dishes to accompany your grilled meats or veggies. Classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans are all delicious choices, but pairing them with the right drink can make them even more delectable. For coleslaw, a crisp and refreshing beer like a pilsner or a pale ale is a great choice. The effervescence of the beer cuts through the creaminess of the coleslaw, while the hops complement the tanginess of the dressing.
Potato salad is another BBQ staple that pairs well with a variety of drinks. A fruity and slightly sweet cider is a fantastic pairing for potato salad, as the crisp acidity of the cider helps balance out the richness of the mayonnaise and potatoes. For those who prefer a more savory option, a light and refreshing lager or a dry cider is a great choice.
And let’s not forget about dessert! Even though most people don’t think about dessert when it comes to BBQs, a sweet treat can be the perfect way to finish off a delicious meal. Grilled fruit like peaches, pineapples, or bananas are a simple yet delicious dessert option for BBQs. Pairing grilled fruit with a sweet dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling or a Port is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the wine complements the caramelized flavors of the grilled fruit, creating a decadent and indulgent dessert experience.
In conclusion, the key to a successful summer BBQ is all about pairing the right food and drink together. Whether you’re grilling up meats, veggies, or sides, there is a perfect drink to complement each dish and enhance its flavors. So next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to consider your drink options – it just might take your BBQ to the next level. Cheers to a delicious and memorable summer BBQ season!
