Pairing Craft Beer with Japanese Izakaya Dishes

In the spirit of our upcoming series ‘Gather’, we want to start exploring beer and food pairings, recipes and more that will go along with each episode we release. ‘Gather’ is a series that’s all about bringing people together to share the experience of craft beer, food, and culture. We hope that some of this content will help you bring that experience home with you after watching the show. 

When it comes to pairing food and drinks, wine and cheese may be the first thing that comes to mind. But what about beer and food? Specifically, craft beer and Japanese izakaya dishes?

Izakayas are traditional Japanese pubs that serve a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing and pairing with a cold beer. In this article, we’ll explore the art of pairing craft beer with Japanese izakaya dishes and how to elevate your dining experience.

What is Otsumami?

In Japanese cuisine, otsumami refers to small, savory snacks or dishes that are typically enjoyed with alcoholic beverages, especially beer or sake. These dishes are designed to enhance the drinking experience, offering a wide range of flavors and textures that complement the drink. Otsumami can include anything from simple items like nuts and edamame to more complex dishes like grilled skewers, pickled vegetables, and even sushi.

The concept of otsumami is central to the izakaya dining experience, where the focus is on enjoying good food and drinks in a casual, social setting. Understanding and incorporating otsumami into your meal can elevate your beer and food pairing experience, bringing a deeper appreciation of the interplay between flavors.

Why Pair Beer With Food?

Enhances Flavors

Just like wine, beer has a wide range of flavors and aromas that can enhance the flavors of food. The carbonation in beer can help cleanse the palate between bites, allowing you to fully taste the flavors of each dish.

Versatility

Beer is a versatile drink that can pair well with a variety of foods. From light and refreshing lagers to rich and complex stouts, there is a beer for every dish.

Cultural Experience

Pairing beer with food is not only a delicious experience, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the culture of the cuisine. In Japan, izakayas are a popular spot for socializing and enjoying good food and drinks with friends and colleagues. Many of the dishes served in izakayas fall under the category of otsumami, making them perfect candidates for beer pairings.

Pairing Tips

When it comes to pairing beer with food, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

Consider the Flavor Profile

When pairing beer with food, it’s important to consider the flavor profile of both the beer and the dish. For example, a light and crisp pilsner may pair well with a delicate seafood dish, while a rich and malty porter may complement a hearty meat dish.

Balance is Key

The goal of pairing beer with food is to create a balance between the flavors of the beer and the dish. You don’t want one to overpower the other, but rather enhance each other.

Experiment

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so what may work for one person may not work for another. Have fun and try different combinations to find what works best for you.

Pairing Craft Beer with Japanese Izakaya Dishes

Now that we’ve covered the basics of pairing beer with food, let’s dive into the specific pairing of craft beer with Japanese izakaya dishes.

Edamame and Pilsner

Edamame, or boiled soybeans, is a popular appetizer in Japanese cuisine and a classic example of otsumami. The light and refreshing flavors of a pilsner pair well with the subtle saltiness of edamame. The carbonation in the beer also helps cleanse the palate between bites.