Nothing says summer like a cold beer and a BBQ. Whether you’re grilling up some burgers and hot dogs, or smoking a brisket low and slow, beer and BBQ are the perfect pairing. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best beer styles to pair with your favorite barbecue dishes, as well as some tips for cooking with beer.
Best Beer Styles for BBQ
When it comes to pairing beer with BBQ, there are a few beer styles that stand out. Here are some of our top picks:
IPA
An IPA’s hoppy bitterness can stand up to the bold flavors of BBQ, making it a great pairing for grilled or smoked meats.
Brown Ale
A malty brown ale can complement the smoky flavors of BBQ, while also providing a refreshing contrast.
Pilsner
A crisp and refreshing pilsner can help cut through the richness of BBQ sauce, making it a great pairing for saucy dishes.
Stout
A rich and roasty stout can be a great pairing for smoked meats, especially if they have a bit of spice.
Tips for Cooking with Beer
Beer isn’t just a great pairing for BBQ, it can also be used as an ingredient in your cooking. Here are a few tips for cooking with beer:
Use beer as a marinade
The acidity in beer can help tenderize meat, while also adding flavor. Try marinating your meats in a beer-based marinade before grilling or smoking.
Add beer to your BBQ sauce
A splash of beer can add depth and complexity to your BBQ sauce. Try adding a dark beer to a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce for a delicious twist.
Use beer in your rub
A dry rub made with beer can add flavor and complexity to your meats. Try mixing your favorite BBQ rub with a bit of beer to create a paste, then rub it all over your meats before cooking.
Beer and barbecue are a match made in heaven. Whether you’re pairing your favorite beer with your go-to BBQ dishes, or using beer as an ingredient in your cooking, the possibilities are endless. So fire up the grill, crack open a cold one, and enjoy the flavors of summer.
