Craft Beer and Gourmet Pizza: Exploring New Combinations
When it comes to pairing drinks with pizza, beer is usually the obvious choice. And when it comes to beer, craft beer has been getting all the attention lately. But not all craft beer and pizza combinations are created equal. And if you're a lover of gourmet pizza, you know that a great slice of pie deserves an equally great pint to go with it.
The Basics of Pairing Beer with Pizza
When it comes to pairing beer with pizza, there are a few general guidelines to follow. Here are some basic rules:
- Match the intensity: Just like you wouldn't pair a light salad with a heavy steak, you don't want to pair a light beer with a heavy pizza. Match the intensity of the beer with the intensity of the pizza.
- Consider the toppings: The toppings on your pizza can also affect how you pair it with beer. If you have a pizza with a lot of spicy or bold flavors, you'll want to pair it with a beer that can stand up to those flavors.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: While there are some general rules to follow, don't be afraid to try different combinations to see what works best for you.
Craft Beer and Gourmet Pizza
Now that you know the basics of pairing beer with pizza, let's talk about some specific craft beer and gourmet pizza combinations to try.
IPA and Margherita Pizza
An India Pale Ale (IPA) is a great choice for a margherita pizza. The bitterness of the beer mellows out the richness of the tomato sauce and cheese, while the hops in the beer complement the basil on the pizza.
Stout and BBQ Chicken Pizza
A stout pairs well with a pizza that has BBQ sauce and chicken. The roasted malts in the beer complement the charred flavor of the BBQ sauce, while the sweetness of the sauce is balanced by the bitterness of the beer.
Pale Ale and Mushroom Pizza
A pale ale is perfect for a pizza with mushrooms. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms are enhanced by the hops in the beer. The breadiness of the pizza crust is also complemented by the maltiness of the beer.
Brown Ale and Meat Lovers Pizza
For a meat lovers pizza, go with a brown ale. The nutty and caramel flavors in the beer are a perfect match for the savory and salty flavors of the pizza. The carbonation in the beer also helps to cut through the richness of the meat and cheese.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to pairing craft beer with gourmet pizza, there are no hard and fast rules. The key is to experiment and find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try new combinations and see what you like best. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite duo?
