As the summer season heats up, so does the season of BBQs and cookouts. There’s nothing quite like a cold beer and a plate of BBQ to make the perfect summer evening. But with so many different flavors and styles of beer and BBQ, how do you know what pairs best? Here are some tips for the perfect beer and BBQ pairings:

Light Beer and White Meat

For lighter meats like chicken and fish, a light and refreshing beer is your best bet. An ice-cold pilsner or wheat beer will complement the mild flavors of these meats without overpowering them. A citrusy witbier is also a great option to elevate and refresh the flavors of grilled fish and chicken.

• Great beer options: Pilsner, Wheat Beer, Witbier, Blonde Ale
• Great BBQ options: Grilled shrimp, smoked chicken, grilled fish

Amber Beer and Red Meat

For heartier meats like steak and burgers, an amber ale or red ale is the way to go. These beers have a maltier flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky and savory flavors of red meat. The bitterness of the beer also helps cut through the fat of the meat, making for a well-balanced bite.

• Great beer options: Amber Ale, Red Ale, Brown Ale, Porter
• Great BBQ options: Grilled ribeye steak, beef burgers, smoked brisket

Dark Beer and Rich Flavors

If you’re grilling up some richly flavored meats, like pork or lamb, a dark beer will be your perfect companion. A rich and complex stout or porter can hold its own against the bold flavors of these meats, and will bring out the unique flavors of your rubs and seasonings.

• Great beer options: Stout, Porter, Brown Ale, Scotch Ale
• Great BBQ options: Smoked pork ribs, lamb chops, pulled pork

Sour Beer and Spicy Food

If you’re planning on adding some heat to your cookout with spicy sauces or rubs, a sour beer will be the perfect palate-cleanser. The acidity of the beer will help cut through the heat, refreshing your taste buds and preparing them for your next flavorful bite.

• Great beer options: Gose, Berliner Weisse, Sour Ale
• Great BBQ options: Spicy chicken wings, smoked jalapeño poppers, chili

Conclusion

No matter what type of beer and BBQ you prefer, there’s a perfect pairing out there for you. Keep these tips in mind and experiment with different flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your next summer cookout! Cheers to a delicious and enjoyable summer season.