Summer is around the corner and it’s time to start planning your upcoming BBQs! Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, a family gathering, or just a small get-together, there’s no doubt that beer is an essential part of any summer BBQ. But with so many different types and brands of beer out there, it can be hard to decide which one is best for your event. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best beers to pair with your favorite BBQ dishes.
Before we dive in, it’s important to note that everyone’s taste in beer is different. What one person might find delicious, another person might find unappealing. So, while we’re giving you some general recommendations, be sure to adjust to your personal preference as well as your guests’ tastes.
1. Pilsner
Pilsners are light, crisp, refreshing beers that are perfect for a hot summer day. They’re typically easy-to-drink, low in alcohol, and have a clean finish. When it comes to BBQ, pilsners pair well with pretty much anything. Whether you’re grilling up burgers, hot dogs, or chicken, a cold pilsner will help to balance out the richness of the food.
Some great pilsners to try include:
– Sierra Nevada Summerfest
– Victory Prima Pils
– Mama’s Little Yella Pils by Oskar Blues Brewery
– North Coast Scrimshaw Pilsner
2. Wheat Beer
Wheat beers, also known as “witbiers”, are brewed with wheat in addition to malted barley. They tend to be light, hazy, and have a slightly sweet taste. They’re also often spiced with coriander and orange peel, which adds a touch of citrusy flavor.
Wheat beers pair particularly well with grilled seafood, such as shrimp or fish tacos. The lightness of the beer complements the delicacy of the seafood, while the orange and coriander flavors give the dish a refreshing twist.
Some great wheat beers to try include:
– Allagash White
– Bell’s Oberon
– Blue Moon Belgian White
– Hoegaarden
3. Pale Ale
Pale ales are hoppy beers with a distinct flavor that ranges from fruity to citrusy. They’re usually a little stronger in alcohol content than pilsners, but still relatively easy-to-drink. Pale ales pair well with spicy BBQ dishes, such as wings or ribs. The hops in the beer help to cut through the heat, while the fruity notes complement the smoky flavor of the meat.
Some great pale ales to try include:
– Anchor Liberty Ale
– Stone Pale Ale
– Lagunitas IPA
– Deschutes Mirror Pond Pale Ale
4. Lager
Lagers are a popular beer choice for BBQs because they’re so widely available. They’re typically light in flavor, crisp, and refreshing. While lagers might not be the most exciting beer option out there, they’re a staple for a reason—they pair well with pretty much anything grilled.
Some great lagers to try include:
– Sam Adams Boston Lager
– Yuengling Traditional Lager
– Dos Equis Lager
– Corona Extra
5. Belgian Ale
Belgian ales are known for their rich, complex flavor and higher alcohol content. They’re brewed with unique yeast strains that give them distinctive spicy or fruity notes, making them a great choice for BBQs. Belgian ales pair well with grilled meat, particularly pork or beef. The richness of the beer helps to balance out the heaviness of the meat.
Some great Belgian ales to try include:
– Duvel
– Chimay Red
– Kwak
– Leffe Blonde
6. Hefeweizen
Hefeweizens are German-style wheat beers that are brewed with a particular type of yeast that gives them a distinct flavor. They’re typically unfiltered, which creates a hazy appearance and a slightly yeasty taste. Hefeweizens pair well with grilled vegetables and salads, as well as lighter meat options like grilled chicken or sausage.
Some great hefeweizens to try include:
– Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier
– Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse
– Erdinger Weissbier
– Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier
There you have it—six great beer options to pair with your favorite BBQ dishes this summer. Of course, there are plenty of other great beer options out there, so don’t be afraid to try something new and different. As long as you have a cold beer in hand, you can’t go wrong at a summer BBQ. Cheers!
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