Best Food to Eat with a Glass of Red Wine
Enjoying a glass of red wine can be a great way to unwind at the end of a long day, or it can be the perfect pairing for a romantic dinner with your significant other. Either way, it’s important to pair the right foods with your red wine for the best experience.
1. Cheese
Cheese and red wine are a match made in heaven. The tannins in red wine cut through the fattiness of the cheese, while the saltiness of the cheese enhances the wine’s fruit flavors. Some of the best cheeses to pair with red wine include:
- Cheddar
- Gouda
- Blue cheese
- Brie
2. Red Meat
Red wine and red meat are a classic pairing. The rich flavors of the meat complement the bold flavors of the wine, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. Some of the best red meats to pair with red wine include:
- Steak
- Lamb chops
- Burgers
- Meatballs
3. Dark Chocolate
Surprisingly, dark chocolate pairs incredibly well with red wine. The bitterness of the chocolate complements the fruit flavors of the wine while the tannins in the wine soften the bitterness of the chocolate. When selecting your chocolate, aim for a variety that is at least 70% cacao or higher.
4. Pasta with Tomato Sauce
If you’re in the mood for Italian, pair your red wine with a pasta dish that has a tomato-based sauce. The acid in the tomato sauce pairs well with the tannins in the wine, while the pasta provides a suitable buffer for the wine’s alcohol. Choose a hearty pasta like penne or rigatoni, and use a sauce that features hearty flavors like garlic, mushrooms, or even eggplant.
5. Spicy Foods
If you’re a fan of spicy foods, try pairing your red wine with something with a little bit of a kick. The heat from the food can bring out complex flavors in the wine that you may not have noticed before. Try pairing your wine with spicy sausage, buffalo chicken wings, or even a black bean chili for a bold flavor explosion.
When it comes to enjoying a glass of red wine, the right food pairing can take your experience to the next level. Experiment with different flavors and types of red wine to find the perfect pairing for your palate.