Hey grill masters! Looking for the perfect drink to match your BBQ creations? Let’s explore the best non-alcoholic beer pairings for grilled meats. Whether you're the designated driver or just cutting back, 9 mouthwatering pairings will elevate your BBQ game. Your taste buds (and your head the next morning) will thank you!
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1. Wagon Driver’s Pale Ale: A Hoppy Companion
If you're a hophead who's ditched the booze but still craves that perfect beer with your barbecue, our Wagon Drivers Pale Ale is a great alternative. This American yeast-driven wonder pairs well with chicken, pork and burgers. Watch out though, there are some pairings some steer clear of.
What’s in the Glass?
- Appearance: Golden to amber
- Aroma: Citrus and tropical notes from Citra and Galaxy hops
- Flavour: Balanced bitterness with pine and grapefruit overtones
- Mouthfeel: Medium- to full-bodied
Best Meats to Pair with Non-Alcoholic Pale Ale
- Grilled Chicken: This ale's hoppy zip brings out the best in smoky chicken without stealing the show. Try it with herb-marinated breasts for a real treat.
- Pork Chops: The ale's citrusy accents complement the mild flavour of pork chops beautifully. Pair it with a honey-glazed pork chop for a delightful sweet and bitter contrast.
- Classic Burgers: The balanced bitterness and malty sweetness of this pale ale cuts through the richness of the meat,
Non-Alcoholic Pale Ale and Grilled Chicken Pairing Guide
Try these grilled chicken tips next time you crack open a Wagon Drivers Pale Ale:
- Marinate your chicken in citrus-based marinades to reflect the beer's hoppy notes
- Grill chicken with aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme to complement the ale's complexity
- Serve the beer well-chilled to balance the warm, smoky flavours of the grilled chicken
Perfect Burgers to Enjoy with Non-Alcoholic Pale Ale
Elevate your burger game with these pairing suggestions:
- Classic cheeseburger with sharp cheddar
- Blue cheese and caramelised onion burger
- Mild jalapeño and pepper jack burger (the beer's crispness balances the heat)
Remember, while Wagon Drivers Pale Ale pairs wonderfully with these grilled meats, it's best to avoid pairing it with delicate fish dishes, extremely spicy foods, or sweet desserts… but we’re not stopping you!
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2. Dave's Drunkenless Dark Ale: A Bold Companion
This non-alcoholic powerhouse brings all the rich, complex flavours of a traditional stout to your cookout, minus the booze. This Australian-style dark ale offers a malty profile that pairs well with caramelised meats, lamb, and game meats.
What’s Brewin’?
- Appearance: Deep brown to almost black
- Aroma: Chocolate, caramel, and roasted coffee notes
- Flavour: Rich, roasted malts with a floral and fruity finish
- Mouthfeel: Silky, full-bodied, and creamy
Ideal Meats for Non-Alcoholic Dark Ale Pairings
- Barbecued Meats: The rich, malty flavours of Dark Ale complement the smoky, caramelized flavours of barbecued meats perfectly. Try it with slow-cooked brisket or pulled pork for an unforgettable combination.
- Lamb: The robust flavour of lamb meets its match in this full-bodied dark ale. The beer's maltiness balances the richness of the meat, making it an excellent choice for grilled lamb chops or a hearty lamb stew.
- Game Meats: For the adventurous griller, this dark ale stands up beautifully to the strong flavours of game meats. Pair it with grilled venison steaks or wild boar sausages.
Non-Alcoholic Dark Ale and Lamb Pairing Recommendations
Take your lamb dishes to the next level with a Dark Ale:
- Grilled lamb kebabs with rosemary and garlic
- Slow-roasted leg of lamb with mint jus
- Spiced lamb burgers with tzatziki sauce
Best Steak Pairings with Non-Alcoholic Dark Ales
For steak lovers, Dave's Drunkenless Dark Ale offers the perfect complement:
- Grilled ribeye with a coffee rub
- Pepper-crusted sirloin with blue cheese butter
- Flank steak with chimichurri sauce
Many suggest avoiding pairing this dark ale with light salads, citrus-based dishes, or mild cheeses, as the beer's strong flavours may overpower these delicate foods.
3. Stone Cold Lager: A Crisp Companion
Let's talk about Beneficial Beer Co.'s Stone Cold Lager. This non-alcoholic brew brings that classic European lager vibe to your backyard bash. Offering a refreshing balance that complements more delicate flavours.
Stone Cold Flavour
- Appearance: Pale to golden with pillowy white foam
- Aroma: Floral and slightly herbal notes from Hersbrucker hops
- Flavour: Well-balanced with subtle sweetness and mild bitterness
- Mouthfeel: Light and smooth
Light Non-Alcoholic Lagers That Complement Grilled Meats
- Filet Mignon: Stone Cold Lager's crisp, subtle flavours won't overpower the steak's delicate taste, making it an ideal pairing for tender grilled meat.
- Roast Chicken: The light, refreshing maltiness enhances the savoury notes of the dish without competing for attention.
- Grilled Sausages: Its clean taste pairs well with the fatty, savoury flavours of various sausages, from bratwurst to Italian sausage.
Non-Alcoholic Lager Pairings for Roast Chicken and Pork
Try these pairing suggestions next time you crack open a Stone Cold Larger:
- Herb-roasted chicken with lemon
- Grilled pork tenderloin with apple chutney
- Barbecue chicken skewers with a tangy sauce
Best Non-Alcoholic Lager Options for Barbecue Meats
For a perfect barbecue experience, try Stone Cold Lager with:
- Lightly seasoned grilled fish (such as tilapia or cod)
- Pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw
- Grilled vegetable skewers as a side dish
To ensure the best tasting experience, avoid pairing this light lager with very rich, heavy stews, strong pungent cheeses, or heavily spiced dishes, as these may overwhelm the beer's delicate flavours.
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Make Your Next Barbecue a Culinary Sensation
Remember, the key to successful beer and food pairing lies in balancing flavours, considering the intensity of both the beer and the food, and being open to experimentation. Don't be afraid to try new combinations and discover your own perfect pairings.
As you explore the world of non-alcoholic beers, you might be surprised to learn that some everyday foods contain more alcohol than these brews. You can read all about this paradox here.
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