Like many, I used to believe that wine (and particularly white wine) was the only acceptable accompaniment to fish. It wasn’t until my long stay in Scotland, savoring crispy fish and chips with local beers, that my perspective began to shift. This revelation was further cemented in Bavaria, where I discovered the delightful harmony of roasted fish and Weizen . Beer, I realized, offers a far more diverse range of flavors and textures than wine, making it an incredibly versatile partner for seafood. Since then, I’ve enthusiastically explored the world of beer pairs with fish, consistently amazed by the results. This article will explore why beer goes so well with fish…
Here are some surprising combinations to elevate your dining experience with Fermento Beer and Fish Pairing
The beer
Our Golden Breeze is a classic Pils , brewed with a blend of Swiss hops. It boasts a crisp, clean bitterness and a refreshing, dry finish. Expect subtle floral aromas and a hint of citrus, making it an exceptionally drinkable and food-friendly beer.
The fish:
Calamari alla Romana: This beloved Italian appetizer features tender squid rings coated in a light, seasoned batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The key is a quick fry at high temperature to ensure a crispy exterior and a succulent interior. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish.
The pairing: The crispness of Golden Breeze cuts through the richness of the fried calamari, while its subtle bitterness complements the savory, umami flavors of the squid. The lemon notes in the calamari echo the citrusy hints in the beer, creating a harmonious balance. This multicultural pairing works wonders across various fried fish dishes, from Swiss fish knusperli to British Fish and Chips and Japanese Tempura .
2. Beer Pairs with Fish: Amber Ale & Italian Guazzetto (Fish Tomato Soup)
The beer
Our Amber Ale is a tribute to the Anglo-Saxon brewing tradition. It has a beautiful amber color, an intense aroma, a full body, and a balanced taste of hops and malt. The use of special hops gives it hints of resin, making it a flavorful and satisfying beer, very close to the pale ale family.
The fish:
Italian Guazzetto is a rustic Italian fish stew, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Typically, it includes a variety of fresh seafood, such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and pieces of white fish. Garlic, parsley, and a touch of chili pepper add layers of flavor to the fragrant sauce.
The pairing: The Amber Ale’s hoppy aroma and slight malty notes complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the savory character of the seafood in the guazzetto. The beer’s body stands up to the richness of the stew, while the subtle spice notes enhance the chili pepper’s warmth.
3. Beer Pairs with fish: Mistral (Weizen) and garlic shrimp
The beer
Our Mistral is a refreshing wheat beer with a distinctive fruity character. Brewed with a special yeast strain, it offers notes of banana, clove, and a hint of mango. Its light body and creamy mouthfeel make it incredibly refreshing, perfect for warm weather or lighter fare.
The fish:
Garlic shrimp: This simple yet flavorful Mediterranean dish features succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal note. The key is to cook the shrimp quickly over high heat to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
The pairing:
The Mistral’s delicate fruity notes complement the sweetness of the shrimp, while its light body doesn’t overpower the dish’s subtle flavors. The beer’s refreshing character cleanses the palate between bites, making it a delightful pairing for this simple and elegant seafood dish.
4. Beer pairs with fish: Ventuno (Honey Beer) & baked fish
The beer
Our Ventuno is a unique honey beer with an intense flavor profile. The addition of local honey during fermentation lends it a subtle sweetness, balanced by a slightly malty and floral character. Its full body and complex aromas make it a truly special and memorable beer.
The fish:
Baked Fish (Bavarian Style): In Bavaria, baked fish is a beloved dish, often featuring local freshwater varieties such as trout or carp. The fish is typically seasoned with herbs, spices, and lemon, then baked until tender and flaky. It is a simple yet satisfying dish that highlights the natural flavors of the fish.
The pairing:
While Bavarians traditionally pair wheat beer with baked fish, our Ventuno offers a unique twist. Its full body and complex aromas stand up to the richness of the baked fish, while the honey notes complement the dish’s savory flavors. It is a delightful alternative that showcases the versatility of honey beer.
5. Beer pairs with fish: Liberica (Stout) & smoked salmon
The beer
Our Liberica Dunkelbier is a bold and complex stout , inspired by the flavors of coffee and chocolate. Brewed with roasted malts, it offers intense aromas of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of smoke. Despite its robust flavor, it’s surprisingly dry and balanced, making it a versatile pairing for rich and savory dishes.
The fish:
Geräucherter Lachs: A delicacy from Scotland, smoked salmon boasts a distinctive smoky flavor and a firm, flaky texture. The smoking process infuses the fish with a deep, savory aroma of the beech or oak wood that’s both comforting and complex.
The pairing: The Liberica’s chocolate and coffee notes create a surprising yet harmonious pairing with the smoky aroma of the salmon. The beer’s dry finish cuts through the fish’s richness, while its roasted flavors enhance the smoky character. It is a bold and adventurous pairing that is sure to delight seafood and beer lovers alike.
Beer pairs with fish: a culinary revelation
So, next time you’re planning a fish dish, don’t automatically reach for a bottle of wine. Instead, consider the incredible possibilities of beer pairing with fish.
As we’ve explored, the diverse range of beer styles offers a multitude of complementary flavors and textures that can elevate your dining experience. A great starting point is surely a pils with fish and chips, calamari alla romana, or Fisch Knusperli – easy and very “accessible” options. The pairings above are only a starting point. The best way to discover your own favorite combinations is to then try the other recipes , explore more options, and trust your palate. You might be surprised at how much the dish improves its flavour when you drink the beer together. Ultimately, understanding how beer pairs with fish opens up a whole new world of culinary possibilities.
Cheers! Fermento: Swiss beer with the Italian heart. Great beers deserve great food!