Pork is a versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from roasted to barbecued to stuffed.
But what about the perfect drink to pair with your pork dish?
With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right alcohol to complement the flavors of your meal.
Fear not, we’ve done the research for you!
In this article, we’ll explore the best alcoholic beverages to pair with pork, whether you’re cooking up a tenderloin or indulging in some BBQ ribs.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the perfect drink to elevate your pork dish to the next level.
What Alcohol Goes With Pork?
When it comes to pairing alcohol with pork, there are a few things to consider.
First, the cooking method and seasoning of your pork dish will greatly impact the flavors you want to complement with your drink.
For example, if you’re roasting a pork tenderloin with subtle spices, a white wine with a touch of juiciness like Riesling or Chardonnay would be a great choice. If you’re going for a red wine, opt for a lighter-bodied but juicy option like Beaujolais Villages or Côtes du Rhône.
If you’re barbecuing pork ribs or brisket, consider pairing with aged whiskeys or rums. The bold flavors of the barbecue will be complemented by the darker spirit base. Top it off with soda for a refreshing twist.
For those who prefer cocktails, try a bourbon lemonade to cut through the smokiness of your BBQ dish. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, mix up a whiskey cocktail with pecans and apple to complement the flavors in a stuffed pork chop.
And let’s not forget about cider! Cider is a great option for pairing with pork, especially if you’re cooking it in the traditional British way with crackling and gravy.
Introduction: Why Pairing Alcohol With Pork Matters
Pairing alcohol with pork is a crucial aspect of creating a well-balanced and enjoyable meal. Pork, being a versatile meat, can be prepared in a variety of ways with different seasonings and sauces, which can greatly impact the flavors and textures of the dish. Therefore, choosing the right type of alcohol to pair with pork can enhance the overall dining experience. Whether it’s wine, whiskey, rum, or cider, the right pairing can elevate the flavors of both the pork and the drink. Understanding the basic principles of pairing alcohol with pork can help you create a harmonious balance between your food and drink choices. In this article, we will explore some of the best options for pairing alcohol with pork and provide tips for selecting the perfect drink to complement your favorite pork dishes.
White Wine: The Classic Pairing For Pork
When it comes to pairing pork with alcohol, white wine is a classic choice that never disappoints. Pork tenderloin, in particular, pairs well with white wines that have a touch of juiciness and acidity to complement its delicate flavor.
Riesling is a great option for pork tenderloin, as its fruity and floral notes work well with the subtle flavors of the meat. Chardonnay is another classic pairing for pork, especially if you’re roasting it with herbs or serving it with a creamy sauce.
If you’re looking for a lighter-bodied white wine to pair with your pork dish, Pinot Blanc is a great option. Its crisp and refreshing taste works well with grilled or roasted pork.
When it comes to pairing white wine with pork, burgundy is always a safe bet. Both red and white burgundy work well with classic French bistro dishes that often feature pork tenderloin. Other cool climate unoaked or subtly oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Noir should work too as would a dry Alsace Riesling or Pinot Gris or a Vouvray.
Red Wine: A Bold And Flavorful Option
Red wine is a classic choice for pairing with pork, especially if you’re looking for a bold and flavorful option. The sweetness and lightness of pork make it a great match for medium-bodied and light red wines with fruity flavors and low tannin counts. For example, Zinfandel is a popular choice that pairs well with pork, as do Pinot Noir and Freisa.
When it comes to specific pork dishes, spicy pork can be paired with Gewürztraminer wine, which has a similar flavor profile. Herb-spiced pork and cream-based sauces work well with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Asian-spiced pork pairs well with New World Pinot Noir, which has deep fruitiness and low tannins. Boldly-flavored pork, such as BBQ ribs or pork/ham roast, requires an equally-bold medium-bodied or full-bodied red wine with a spicy, acidic touch, such as Grenache or Zinfandel.
If you’re looking for a specific wine recommendation, Malbec is an excellent choice for pairing with spicy pork sausage. The deep, mysterious flavors of the Malbec won’t overpower or be overpowered by the spiciness of the sausage. Opt for an Argentinian Malbec like Wapisa Malbec, which tends to be more fruit forward and less tannic than its French counterpart.
Beer: The Perfect Complement To BBQ Pork
When it comes to BBQ pork, beer is a classic and refreshing pairing option. The smoky, savory flavors of the pork are perfectly complemented by the hoppy and carbonated taste of beer.
For pulled pork sandwiches, consider pairing with a Pale Lager or Blonde Ale. These lighter beers have a dry finish that cuts through the richness of the pork, while also complementing its subtle flavors.
If you’re grilling pork ribs or chops, try pairing with a Brown Ale or Irish Red Ale. These beers have a medium-to-high malt flavor that can stand up to the bold and smoky flavors of the meat. They also have a dry finish that balances out the sweetness of any BBQ sauce used in the dish.
For those who prefer a stronger beer, an IPA or Stout can be a great choice. IPAs have pronounced hops and a medium-to-dry finish that pairs well with charcoal-cooked red meat like beef brisket or grilled lamb. Stouts, on the other hand, have strong-roasted malt flavors with hints of coffee and chocolate that can complement the intensity of BBQ pork dishes.
No matter what type of BBQ pork dish you’re cooking up, there is a beer out there that can perfectly complement its flavors. So next time you fire up the grill or slow-cook some pulled pork, make sure to grab a cold beer to enjoy alongside it.
Cocktails: Creative And Fun Pairings For Pork
If you’re looking for creative and fun cocktail pairings for your pork dishes, there are plenty of options to explore.
For a Mexican-inspired dish like pork tenderloin cooked with cumin and cayenne pepper, try pairing it with a Michelada. This spicy beer cocktail made with dark Mexican beer, Worcestershire sauce, lime, Tabasco and black pepper will complement the bold flavors of the dish.
Another great way to pair mixed drinks and food is with herbs. For example, garnish a simple gin and tonic with a sprig of fresh rosemary when serving it with herb-roasted lamb. The aroma of the rosemary will enhance your sense of taste and complement the flavors of the dish.
If you’re serving an Italian feast, add a few basil leaves or a sprig of oregano to savory cocktails. This will complement the flavors of Italian-style roast pork with garlic, fennel and herbs.
For smoked pulled pork, try pairing it with rosé wine. Rosé is one of the most flexible wines as it complements all sorts of flavors. The rich taste of smoked pulled pork cooked in a Bradley Smoker will match well with the versatility of a rosé.
If you’re making pecan stuffed pork chops, consider pairing them with whiskey cocktails. Both pecans and pork pair nicely with whiskey, so try a Fancy Whiskey with its touch of orange or the classic Manhattan. The apple in the pork chop also alludes to the enhancement of this flavor with a cocktail such as the popular Washington Apple.
Finally, for those who prefer beer, consider pairing your pork dishes with a Dunkel Weisse. The dark wheat beer works well with earthy flavors like pecans and pork. The sweetness of the beer also compliments apples and onions while bringing up the sharpness of spices like cayenne.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing Drinks To Accompany Your Pork Dish
If you’re looking for non-alcoholic options to pair with your pork dish, there are plenty of refreshing drinks to choose from.
One option is to go with a fruity mocktail like a strawberry mojito or a honey ginger limeade. These drinks have a similar flavor profile to the pork dish and can bring out the sweetness in the meat.
Another option is to try a non-alcoholic version of a classic cocktail. For example, a bourbon lemonade can be made without the bourbon and still provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the smokiness of your BBQ dish.
If you’re looking for something more unique, try a spiced pineapple drink like the Parch Spiced Piñarita mentioned above. The punchy heat and smokiness in this drink can help balance out the flavors in your pork dish.
Finally, don’t forget about cider! A crisp apple cider pairs perfectly with pork dishes, especially those cooked in the traditional British way with crackling and gravy.
When it comes to non-alcoholic options for pairing with pork dishes, the key is to find a drink that complements the flavors in your dish without overpowering them. With these refreshing options, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your next pork feast.