When it comes to food and drink pairings, we often stick to the classics: red wine with steak, white wine with fish, and coffee with dessert. But there’s a world of flavour that comes alive when you explore unconventional pairings. From spicy foods paired with sweet drinks to salty dishes balanced by a touch of acidity, surprising combinations can bring out the best in both food and drink. Here are some unexpected pairings that will elevate your taste buds and help you discover new, delightful flavour profiles.
1. Dark Chocolate and Red Wine
While chocolate and wine are often paired, red wine is traditionally matched with cheese or meats. However, pairing it with dark chocolate, particularly varieties with a high cacao percentage, can create a luxurious experience. The tannins in a bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, meld beautifully with the bitterness of dark chocolate, bringing out rich, nuanced notes in both.
Pro Tip: Try pairing a dark chocolate with a touch of sea salt with a full-bodied red for a satisfying balance of sweet, bitter, and savoury flavours.
2. Champagne and Fried Chicken
This pairing might seem unusual, but the acidity and effervescence in champagne cut through the richness of fried chicken, making it a match made in heaven. The light, bubbly nature of champagne refreshes your palate with each bite, while the fat from the chicken complements the wine’s subtle sweetness.
Pro Tip: Opt for extra crispy fried chicken to enhance the textural contrast between the crunchy skin and the smooth, bubbly champagne.
3. Whisky and Sushi
Sushi is commonly paired with sake, but whisky brings out different flavours in seafood, particularly in rich cuts like tuna and salmon. A smooth Japanese whisky, for instance, has a delicate sweetness that complements the slight sweetness of the rice and the umami of the fish, creating a dynamic pairing.
Pro Tip: Try pairing smoky whisky with smoked salmon sushi to intensify the layers of flavour.
4. IPA Beer and Blue Cheese
If you’re a fan of bold flavours, this pairing is for you. The strong bitterness of an IPA (Indian Pale Ale) complements the pungent, creamy notes of blue cheese. This combination is intense and not for the faint of heart, but it can be incredibly satisfying.
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of honey or fig jam to add a touch of sweetness and soften the sharp edges of both the IPA and the blue cheese.
5. Rosé and Spicy Indian Curry
The crisp, slightly sweet, and fruity flavours of a rosé wine help to tame the heat of a spicy Indian curry, such as a Vindaloo or Tikka Masala. The cooling effect of the wine allows the complex spices of the curry to shine, while the slight acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
Pro Tip: Choose a semi-sweet rosé to balance the spiciness if you’re trying this pairing with an extra-hot curry.
6. Port Wine and Potato Chips
This pairing might sound unexpected, but it’s deliciously addictive! The sweet, rich nature of port wine pairs surprisingly well with salty, crunchy potato chips. The saltiness of the chips contrasts with the wine’s sweetness, while the texture adds an enjoyable crunch.
Pro Tip: Try flavoured potato chips, such as truffle or barbeque, to see how they play with the flavours in the port wine.
7. Tequila and Oysters
While oysters are often paired with champagne or white wine, tequila offers a unique alternative. The briny, salty taste of oysters is enhanced by the earthiness of a good-quality tequila, especially if you add a splash of lime.
Pro Tip: Use a blanco tequila, which is typically more straightforward and pairs well with the delicate taste of oysters.
8. Margaritas and Spicy Tacos
Spicy foods are commonly paired with beer, but a refreshing margarita with a touch of sweetness helps counteract the heat in spicy tacos. The lime and salt in a margarita complement the smoky and spicy flavours of Mexican cuisine, creating a balanced, invigorating experience.
Pro Tip: Opt for a spicy jalapeño margarita for an added kick, or experiment with fruit-infused margaritas for a unique contrast.
9. Dark Roast Coffee and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Coffee might seem like an odd choice with a grilled cheese, but the deep, roasty notes of a dark coffee pair perfectly with the savoury richness of melted cheese. The combination brings out nutty and buttery flavours, making it a cosy, satisfying match.
Pro Tip: Use a rich, flavorful cheese like gouda or sharp cheddar in the sandwich for a delicious contrast with the coffee.
10. Gin and Watermelon Salad
Watermelon’s sweetness, coupled with feta and mint in a salad, pairs beautifully with gin. The botanical notes in gin, especially varieties that highlight citrous, complement the refreshing flavours of watermelon and the saltiness of feta.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of tonic water to your gin to enhance the effervescence, making it even more refreshing.
Conclusion
Food and drink pairings are not limited to traditional combinations. By experimenting with unique flavours, you can discover incredible new taste experiences that surprise and delight. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to shake things up, these unconventional food and drink pairings will elevate your culinary adventures. So next time you’re hosting, consider mixing it up with some of these fun, surprising combinations. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.
