Here at Fermento, we are passionate about exploring the exciting world of beer pairings. For some, the immediate thought might be Pizza, any sort of deep fried finger food (e.g. arancini, veggie, etc.) or perhaps fish and chips. Indeed, let’s not overlook the humble potato! In Northern Europe, potatoes are a dietary favourite, providing the basis for countless comforting and versatile dishes. And let’s be honest, who can resist the simple pleasure of perfectly crisp, golden fries? This idea makes us realise just how well beer pairs with potatoes.
In the UK, they even celebrate the fry with the absolutely legendary Chip Butty: golden fries nestled between slices of buttered toast. This is how much potatoes are popular there. That simple, perhaps weird combination really got us thinking: what other potato dishes deserve a carefully considered beer pairing? It is an exciting journey of discovery as we explore the surprising ways beer pairs with potatoes.
Potatoes, in all their many forms – mashed, roasted, fried, boiled or baked – offer a blank canvas of delicious, earthy flavour that can be elevated by the right brew. Beer, with its incredible range of styles, from crisp and refreshing pils to dark and complex stouts, is the perfect accompaniment to even the simplest potato dish, taking it to new flavourful heights. We are so excited to explore the amazing concept of how beer pairs with potatoes!
So, forget any preconceived notions you might have! Get ready to embark on a delicious journey where beer pairs with potatoes in unexpected and delightful ways. We will take you on a journey from the simple, delicious joy of street food to the refined delights of fine dining. Together, we’ll discover the secrets to creating perfect pairings that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving more.
We are not just talking about matching flavors; we’re talking about creating an experience. The way the different textures, aromas, and subtle tastes of the beer and the potato dish work together is like a beautiful symphony. This in-depth look at how beer pairs with potatoes will show you how to take a simple meal to the next level and turn it into a gourmet experience.
Let’s take a look at the idea that beer pairs with potatoes by checking out some great combinations. So, let’s dive into some surprisingly perfect combos!
So, let’s kick things off with a classic that never fails: fries and beer! This pairing is like the heart and soul of pub culture, a beloved tradition in so many countries. While the UK has delicious thick-cut “chips” and Belgium has a dazzling array of sauces to accompany their frites, one thing remains constant: the need for a great beer. The simple fact is, beer pairs with potatoes and fries are the perfect example!
The beer
Golden Breeze: This Pils is all about celebrating balance, and we want to share that with you! It pours a beautiful golden colour with a lovely, creamy head that just keeps on going. The aroma is delicate, with hints of noble hops and a touch of sweet malt. When you take a sip, you’ll notice it’s nice and crisp, with a refreshing taste that’s not too bitter. The light body and lively fizz make it a real pleasure to drink.
The potatoes
British chips are thick-cut fried potatoes, often boiled or par-boiled before frying for a crispy exterior and soft interior – isn’t that a great idea? You know how they say that British chips are a staple in the UK, unlike the thinner “fries” common in the United States? Well, they’re just as delicious when enjoyed with salt and vinegar or as part of a “chip butty”. You will find them all over Belgium, and people love having them in the restaurants and street food shops.
The pairing: The refreshing, light taste of Golden Breeze is the perfect way to round off the richness of the fries, leaving you feeling happy and satisfied at the end of the day. The beer’s subtle bitterness goes really well with the saltiness of the fries, and its light malt notes provide a touch of sweetness to balance out all those delicious tastes. Forget mass-produced industrial beers! This craft Pils elevates the humble fry to a gourmet experience.
2. Amber Ale & Oven-Roasted Potatoes with Herbs: An Italian Harmony
Now, it is time to bring some Italian flair to the table! Oven-roasted potatoes, infused with fragrant herbs, are a staple of Italian cuisine, and they make a really delicious and comforting side dish.
The beer
Amber Ale: our amber ale is all about finding that perfect balance. This red-coloured beauty is a symphony of malt and hops, just waiting to be enjoyed. The aroma is so inviting, with hints of caramel and toffee, and just a touch of citrus from the hops. When you taste it, you’ll find it’s delightfully smooth and well-rounded, with a medium body and a lovely bitterness. The finish is so lovely and satisfying that you’ll want to have more and more!
The potatoes
Oven-roasted potatoes are a firm favourite in Italy, and it’s no surprise why! They are often baked with delicious herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme, making them smell absolutely amazing and adding a mouthwatering depth of flavour to the side dish. In Italy, regional variations exist, with some cooks adding garlic, chili flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra touch of flavor.
The pairing: the earthy, resinous notes of the Amber Ale are a match made in heaven for the herbal aroma of roasted potatoes. Italian cooks often use a blend of rosemary, sage, and thyme to season their potatoes. The beer’s bitterness cuts through the richness of the potatoes, while its malty sweetness enhances their natural flavor.
3. Mistral Weizen & German Potato Salad: A Refreshing Balance
Join us on a culinary journey to Germany to experience a traditional dish! A popular side dish at barbecues and family gatherings, German potato salad is a national favourite.
The beer
Mistral: this wheat beer has a cloudy golden colour and a firm white head. Its aroma bursts with notes of banana and mango, resulting from the unique yeast used in fermentation. It is light and refreshing on the palate, with a creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Its high carbonation makes it incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm day.
The potatoes
German potato salad is a versatile dish that can be prepared with vinegar, broth, and mustard or with mayonnaise for a creamy and tangy flavour. Recipes vary a lot from region to region and even from family to family, which is really interesting, with some versions including bacon, onions, or pickles to make them more interesting texturally and flavour-wise.
The pairing:
The light, refreshing character of Mistral Weizen is the perfect foil for the richness of German potato salad, especially when made with mayonnaise. The beer’s lively carbonation helps to cut through the rich, creamy texture of the mayonnaise, while its exotics fruitness gently balances the tangy, zesty flavour of the vinegar.
4. Ventuno Honey Beer & Potato Pie with Mortadella (Torta di Patate e Mortadella)
Let’s get together and enjoy a meal that’s really special! Potato pie with mortadella is an Italian masterpiece. Mortadella Bologna IGP is a cured meat made of finely minced pork (never smoked) and at least 15% of fat present as lardons.
The beer
Ventuno honey beer: Fermento honey beer is one of a kind and has a real depth of flavour. We have brewed it with just the right amount of artisanal honey, so it is got a rich and complex flavour profile. The aroma is strong, with hints of honey, malts, and gentle hops. It is full-bodied and warming, with a smooth, velvety texture and a long, lingering finish. The higher alcohol content adds to its complexity and depth.
The potatoes
Torta di Patate e Mortadella has potatoes that are smashed and mixed with eggs, butter and Parmesan to create a rich and creamy base for the pie. The fact that a hearty Italian dish is a testament to the potato’s versatility in Italian cuisine is just one of the many reasons why we love them. Who says Italians don’t eat potatoes?
The pairing:
This rich, flavourful potato pie, needs a beer that can handle its intensity. The maltiness and honeyed sweetness of Ventuno go really well with the savoury flavours of the mortadella and cheese, creating a combination that’s both harmonious and satisfying. The high alcohol content of the beer helps to balance out the richness of the dish, preventing it from becoming overwhelming.
5. Liberica Stout & Haggis with Potatoes (Purée): A Scottish Celebration
Let’s head north to Scotland for a hearty and traditional pairing! Haggis, a tasty dish made with sheep’s pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), oatmeal, onions, and spices, is the national dish of Scotland. It is usually served with mashed potatoes.
The beer
Liberica: stout: Fermento stout is all about those dark and intense flavours. This black as night brew has a complex aroma of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and hints of smoke. It is full-bodied and rich, with a smooth, velvety texture and a long, warming finish. The bitterness is balanced by a subtle sweetness, creating a complex and satisfying drinking experience.
The potatoes
mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy, often with butter and milk or cream, to create a comforting base that goes well with the intensity of the haggis. Served with haggis, the mashed potatoes provide a smooth and comforting contrast to the savoury and spicy haggis, making them an important part of a traditional Burn’s Night supper.
The pairing: The bold, robust flavours of Liberica Stout go brilliantly with the savoury intensity of haggis. The beer’s roasted notes go well with the smoky flavours of the haggis, and its bitterness cuts through all the richness of the dish. The smooth, creamy texture of the stout also mirrors the texture of the mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s a traditional combo that’s perfect for Burns’ Night. The smooth, creamy texture of the stout also mirrors the texture of the mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It is a traditional combo that’s perfect for Burns’ Night.
Celebrating the Versatility of How Beer Pairs with Potatoes
Top of FormWe’ve been exploring the many and delicious ways beer pairs with potatoes, from the simple pleasure of fries to the comforting complexity of potato pie. Whatever you fancy, whether it is a light and refreshing Pils with your fries or a rich and robust stout with your haggis, there’s a beer and potato pairing out there for everyone! It does not matter if the dish is simple or complex, what matters is finding the right beer to complement its flavors.
Just like the delicious, diverse cuisines of the many countries that have embraced the potato – from the UK and Belgium to Italy and Germany – the possibilities for beer and potato pairings are endless. So, the next time you’re enjoying a delicious potato dish, why not try pairing it with a refreshing Fermento beer? You might be surprised at how much the right beer can make your dining experience even better.
Cheers! Fermento is the Swiss beer with the Italian heart, and we all know: great beer deserves great food!