master-cooks | The Best Fried Food To Pair With Stout Beers

Stout beers, known for their rich, creamy, and often chocolatey or coffee-like flavors, pair exceptionally well with a variety of fried foods. The robust nature of these beers complements the savory and often greasy character of fried dishes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Fried chicken, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is an excellent choice, as the hearty stout can cut through the richness, enhancing the overall taste experience. Fish and chips, particularly when the fish is battered with a light, crispy coating, also make a delightful pairing, as the maltiness of the stout accentuates the mild flavor of the fish. Onion rings, with their sweet and savory profile, match well with the slight bitterness of a stout, creating a pleasing contrast. For a more indulgent option, deep-fried cheese curds or mozzarella sticks can elevate the pairing, as the creamy cheese melds beautifully with the beer's toasty notes. Lastly, fried mushrooms or tempura vegetables offer a savory yet lighter partner to stout beers, with the earthy flavors of the mushrooms or the subtle sweetness of the vegetables complementing the beer's complexity. These fried delights, when paired with a stout, create a memorable and satisfying culinary experience.

Crisp fried mushrooms play off rich stouts

Just as certain wines harmonize beautifully with specific dishes while clashing with others, the type of beer you choose influences the food that pairs best with it. When it comes to a rich, robust brew like Guinness stout, your pairing possibilities are quite varied, depending on whether you want a sip that complements, cuts through, or contrasts with your meal.

Naturally, the classic combination of a pint and corned beef is well-known. However, a hearty dark stout can be enjoyed alongside a range of flavors, from sweet to savory—think chocolate truffles and ice cream, or Kwame Onwuachi's recommendation of deep-fried mushrooms. The creamy, full-bodied texture of the stout works beautifully with the light, crispy bites. The bold heat of buffalo sauce balances the rich, dessert-like nature of the stout. (Consider the surprising yet delightful combination of spicy and creamy, like drizzling chili oil over vanilla ice cream; the contrast is simply delightful.) Additionally, spicy dishes and beer tend to pair exceptionally well.

While you can experiment with these pairings at home, if you're a stout enthusiast in the NYC area, be sure to RSVP for the block party hosted by Guinness and Onwuachi to experience the chef's recommendations in action.

The Best Fried Food To Pair With Stout Beers

Crisp fried mushrooms play off rich stouts

Recommended

Next up