The Best Beers for Your Next Barbecue: BBQ Pairings

Summertime is the perfect time for barbecues! Whether you’re grilling up some burgers and hot dogs or smoking a rack of ribs, there’s nothing quite like enjoying good food with family and friends outdoors. And what better way to complement those delicious barbecue dishes than with a cold beer? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best beers to pair with your next barbecue feast.

Why beer?

It’s a great way to keep your guests hydrated in the summer heat. As the warm weather approaches, many people begin to plan their summer outdoor parties. While burgers and hot dogs are always a popular choice, the menu is not complete without a refreshing beer. But why beer? First of all, beer is the perfect complement to grilled food.

The maltiness of beer can help to bring out the flavor of grilled meats, while the carbonation can help to cut through the fat. In addition, beer is a refreshing and hydrating beverage, which is essential on a hot summer day. Finally, beer can be a great conversation starter, helping to break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere together.

So what are the best beers for your next BBQ? Here are our top picks:

Pilsners

Light, refreshing, and perfect for summer BBQs. Pilsners are a type of light lager that originated in the Czech Republic in 1842. Pilsners are usually golden in color and have a crisp, clean flavor with a moderate hops presence.

They are highly carbonated and typically have an ABV of 4-5%. Pilsners are often served in a tall, tapered glass called a pilsner glass, which helps to showcase the beer’s color and carbonation. Pilsners are versatile beers that can be paired with a variety of grilled foods.

The light body and hop bitterness of a pilsner can help to cut through the fat of grilled meats, while the malt sweetness can complement the char of grilled veggies. For a classic summertime pairing, try grilling up some hot dogs or bratwurst and serving them with a cold pilsner.

Amber ales 

When it comes to barbecues, there are endless options when it comes to beer. However, Amber Ales are often overlooked as a great option. Amber Ales are perfect for barbecues because they are not too heavy and have a slight sweetness that pairs well with grilled meats.

In addition, Amber Ales are relatively low in bitterness, which makes them refreshing and easy to drink in the summer heat. Whether you’re grilling chicken, steak, or vegetables, Amber Ales are a great choice to keep your guests happy and hydrated. So next time you’re planning a barbecue, be sure to stock up on Amber Ales!

IPAs

IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a type of beer that is characterized by its hoppy flavor. IPAs are often used as an ingredient in craft beer, and they are also a popular choice for home brewing. While IPAs can be enjoyed on their own, they are also a great choice for barbecues.

The hoppy flavor pairs well with grilled meats, and the beer can help to cut through the fat of the meat. IPAs also have a high hop content, which helps to give the beer a bitterness that can stand up to the smokiness of the grill. As a result, IPA is one of the best choices for your next barbecue.

Saisons

Saisons are a type of Belgian beer that is light, slightly sweet, and highly carbonated. They are often brewed with fruit or spices, which gives them a unique flavor that pairs well with grilled food. In addition, the high carbonation level helps to cut through the fat of grilled meats, making it a refreshing choice for a summer barbecue.

Whether you’re grilling chicken, steak, or seafood, Saisons are a great option for washing down your meal. So next time you’re planning a barbecue, make sure to include this versatile beer on your shopping list.

Wheat beers 

A wheat beer is a beer, usually top-fermented, which is brewed with a large proportion of wheat relative to the amount of malted barley. The two main varieties are Weissbier and Witbier; Weissbier is known for its strong banana and clove flavor, while Witbier is known for its citrusy flavor.

Wheat beers are often very refreshing, making them perfect for sipping on a hot day. They also pair well with grilled food, making them a great choice for your next barbecue. So if you’re looking for a beer that will please everyone at your next cookout, reach for a wheat beer. You won’t be disappointed.

Dark beers 

Most people believe that the best beer to drink with barbecue is a light lager. While it is true that a cold, refreshing lager can be a great complement to smoky meats, there are other options that can be even better. Dark beers, for example, tend to have richer flavors that can stand up to the boldest BBQ flavors.

Stouts and porters, in particular, can be excellent choices for pairing with grilled meats. The chocolate and coffee notes in many dark beers can also help to balance out the sweetness of sauces and rubs. So next time you fire up the grill, don’t be afraid to reach for a dark beer. You may be surprised at how well it pairs with your favorite BBQ recipes.

The bottom line,

These are merely guidelines to get you started on your beer and BBQ pairings adventure. The most important part is enjoying the company of those you share the meal with, and of course, the food and beer. And remember, when in doubt, drink a lager.

Maximize the warm summer weather and have a backyard barbecue party. Simply ensure you add an outdoor misting fan for your patio to beat the heat. Don’t forget to pair your beer with delicious barbecue. Start by getting a good grill if you don’t have one already. Traeger Grill is known for its affordable products, so you might want to go for it. 

What are your favorite beer and BBQ pairings? Let us know in the comments below!