One of the best aspects of beer is how many varieties there are to choose from, each with unique characteristics pertaining to hoppiness, bitterness, heaviness, and color. With so many different flavor profiles available, it can be intimidating to pick the type of food to pair with it. This guide takes the pressure off, so you can shop with confidence down any grocery store aisle and know that you’ll find the perfect ingredients for a dish to match your beer.

5 Types of Beer & Their Food Pairings

1. Lager

Lagers are a lighter beer, both in color and in taste. The refreshing nature pairs well with grocery store staples like chicken and seafood. If you’re looking down a less traditional aisle, Mexican and Southeast Asian cuisine will bring out the best in your lager of choice.

2. India Pale Ale (IPA)

On the hoppier side of the light beers, IPAs showcase both sweet and bitter notes at the same time. You’ll want an IPA if you’re planning to eat a dish inspired by the spice aisle, such as curry or chili, as it can cool down the heat of a spicy meal.

3. Stout

Stouts are known for their dark color and roasty flavor. Because these are on the richer side, with notes of chocolate and coffee, they pair well with savory foods, like stews and barbequed meats. You can also grab a carton of ice cream and pair a sweeter stout with your dessert.

4. Wheat Beer

Wheat beers are made primarily from grains. Because of this, they aren’t particularly bitter, and they pair well with lighter foods. Take a stroll through the produce section of your grocery store and pick up ingredients for salads and vegetable-heavy dishes to enjoy with a wheat beer.

5. Sour

Tart and frequently fruity, sours pair nicely with bold-flavored foods. Cured and salty meats, tangy cheeses, and seafood seasoned with lemon juice are foods with strong flavor profiles that will pair nicely with your next sour.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to combinations of beer and food that you can try. Dale’s Market & Deli in Elyria, OH, is a grocery store you can count on to provide the products and services that will meet your needs while you shop for any meal. Visit the store for your next grocery run or take a look at their website to learn more about what they offer. Feel free to call (440) 365-6551 with any questions.