Breaking schemes: how to combine sushi with beers that surprise
Have you ever thought that sushi only combines with Sake or Green Tea? It’s time to turn that idea. The beer, that versatile and refreshing friend, has a lot to say at the table with the delicate cuts of sticky fish and rice. But it is not enough to choose any usual lager. We will explore a variety of options and understand how and why they work in perfect harmony.
Of balance and harmony: the perfect pairing key
It is not just about combining flavors, but to create a dialogue between textures, aromas and flavors that enhance each one. The central idea here is to play with the intensity of both elements: the softer the sushi, the lighter must be beer, and vice versa. Imagine Sashimi’s softness with a subtle and bubbling foam, or the intensity of a roll stuffed with bold ingredients, accompanied by a more robust variety in the drink.
Adventures in the world of beers next to Japanese delicate
Delicacy in each bite: Sashimi and Nigiri
Sashimi, pure perfection in thin slices and with aromas that seem to dance in the air, requires beers that can clean and cool the palate without stealing prominence. Here, options such as a Kölsch or Helles vigorize subtly, highlighting fish notes and helping to reduce oily sensation. But if you are looking for a more fruit and citrus touch, a Saison with its spicy spark can be the ideal complement.
As for Nigiri, the experience changes a bit. The portion of glaze rice and the slice of delicate fish demand a piece that can balance that softness, without drowning it. Light lagers, such as a Czech Pilsner or a German pils, provide that fresh and bubbling character. For more intense fish, an softened IPA or a Pale Ale can offer an interesting counterpoint.
The upper level: Anguilla and Tamago
When it comes to Anguilla Unagi, with his sweet and smoked glaze, not any beer accompanies him. A Schwarzbier, with its roasted touch like a dark chocolate, can create a palate symphony. For an even more sophisticated touch, a Dunkelweizen with its toasted, spicy and fruity notes, it can be the option that will make the experience memorable.
Seat rolls: from classic to the most daring
Simple and elegant: tuna and salmon
Traditional rolls, such as salmon and tuna, do not demand too much in terms of pairing. A Pale Lager, a Cream Ale or a Helles are enough to highlight their flavors without overloading.
Of complex textures and flavors: empanized and spicy rolls
Fried rolls with tempura or filling with cream cheese need extra doses of character in beer. Here, the Belgian Pale Ales, IPAS with moderate bitterness or even Amber Lager type beers play their role. These styles work well with their creaminess and roasted notes, in addition to cleaning fat and fried dough in a single sip.
For rolls with a spicy touch, a beer with character, such as a Belgian Blond or an IPA session, achieves the perfect balance; The contrast of heat and spices is softened by maltose sweetness and effervescence.
What beers do each phase of the Sushi experience better?
From the first bite with a hot and comforting broth, to the last bite of an elaborate roll, the choice of beer can transform all the experience. The trick is to adapt each style to each moment and dish in particular, creating a symphony of flavors that are complemented.
The world of pairing opens every day more, and the options of artisanal beers with unique profiles allow to experience and discover combinations that, at first glance, might seem unlikely. You just have to get carried away, play with intensity and, above all, enjoy the process.
