The
beer day is celebrated worldwide on the first Friday of August. Today we celebrate this representative drink of Mexico - let’s remember that we are the fourth largest producer in the world - with this guide of
Mexican pairings so you can enjoy it with your mug held high.
Many times it is believed that the flavor and body of the beer depend on its color, whether it is light or dark. However, its main division, from which more than 100 styles emerge, is based on its fermentation type: top (ale), bottom (lager), or lambic (spontaneous).
To enhance the flavors of your beer with gastronomy, it is important to classify its style and know its essential characteristics. Therefore, we present a quick guide to
Mexican pairings, with some of the most common styles from our country, to celebrate this
beer day in a big way:
AlesIPA (Indian Pale Ale)Its origin dates back to 1790, when English brewers wanted to make a more resilient Pale for long sea voyages, especially those destined for India, and added more alcohol, hops, and bitterness. Because of this last note, it will pair perfectly with some
tacos al pastor or with a
chile relleno de cecina with cilantro sauce.
Blonde Ale It is the craft alternative to industrial lager. It has more body but is still easy to drink, leaning towards malt and is well balanced. The malt gives it honey notes that will pair perfectly with some
jamaica enchiladas or a delicious
cazón bread.
Porter
Its origin is disputed between England and Ireland. It was a recipe created especially for workers with very heavy physical tasks, which combined three types of ales. It is dense, smells like bread and chocolate, and has a robust mouthfeel. These chocolate notes will perfectly highlight some
tacos placeros de suadero or a
zarandeado fish.
Stout
It was created in the United Kingdom and is the evolution of the Porter, to which the alcohol content was increased for its journeys to English colonies and northern Europe. It is very dark in color, has roasted notes and a marked coffee flavor. To pair it, seek dishes with the same strength and character. A
mixed beef stew or a
homemade mole poblano will be the perfect match.
LagersPilsner It is the most elaborate style in the world and originated in the Czech Republic. Its color is pale, its flavor dry, with malt presence, herbal notes, and citrus aromas. Try it with some
gorditas de chicharrón or with
chicken wings with mango and habanero.
American lagerAll Mexican lagers are of this style. German immigrants began making it in 1830, and Americans popularized it by offering it with food, so people would drink more. Generally, they are light yellow, clear, and bright, while in the mouth, they are very refreshing. They pair wonderfully with dishes like
fish and orange ceviche or some
tuna salad rolls.
ViennaIt was created in 1841 in Vienna, Austria, with Vienna-style malts. Although its flavor has changed a lot since the original recipe, its color ranges from amber to copper, with malt, floral, and caramel notes on the nose, while on the palate it is balanced. Its perfect companions must play with the sweetness of its malts, like a
tortilla soup or for this season:
chiles en nogada.
Let’s celebrate this
beer day with these
Mexican pairings, cheers!
*Sources:
-Beer diploma from the Mexican Academy of Sommeliers, taught by Francisco Olachea and Nayeli Estrada.
-The book of Mexican Beer 2016.
-Brewers of Mexico.