10 food and drink matching ideas that don’t include wine
*Please note other local producers are available, these are only suggestions.
1. Pale ale - perfect with sausages, hams and cheese of all types. Try:
2. Irish whiskey – don’t just have it on your porridge. The fats in cheese react just as comfortably with a whiskey than a wine; and seafood is also a natural partner, especially oysters and smoked fish.
3. Gin fling – be adventurous about partnering gin with foods. Both Shortcross Gin and Jawbox have paired with hospitality businesses to create some fabulous events:
4. Lager - not just with curry!
Try these with a creamy risotto, egg dishes or meaty fish.
5. Cider – Armagh’s finest
Perfect with a hog roast or anything on a spit, but can also be a refined alternative to prosecco or sparking wine with canapés for a reception or party.
Mulled cider also makes a perfect winter antidote and is a great accompaniment to Christmas pies.
6. Stouts and porters
Good with grilled meats, roasted vegetables and even chocolate pudding (no, really!). Try:
7. Apples and Pears
McCann Apples straight from the grower, a delicious pear and apple juice is the perfect soft substitute for a light Chardonnay or Chenin Blanc. A good match with sushi, pasta, fish and chips and anything avocado.
8. Tea
Best with a freshly baked scone, lashings of Ballyrashane butter and home made jam. Lots of tea suppliers in Northern Ireland, including:
9. Coffee
Chocolate and coffee, a match made in heaven.Try chocolates from CoCouture, La Coquine or Nearynogs with coffee from Johnson’s or S.D. Bell & Co
10. Adam’s Ale
From the tap if you can, but if not try a local supplier: