BBQ, the perfect culinary companion for beer. While it's fully acceptable to enjoy any style of beer with any BBQ food, there are some things to keep in mind to make your summer grilling more enjoyable.
Burgers
You may want to reach for that lager or pale ale when enjoying a BBQ'd burger. Next time switch it up to a darker beer. It might not seem like the best time of year to enjoy a porter, but a smoked one will compliment your burger perfectly. If you want to hop it up a bit, don't go to your usual IPA, reach for a Black IPA.
Steak
The granddaddy of all BBQ meat - the steak! Like a burger, you'll want to pair your perfectly grilled steak with a darker beer. A stout is the perfect compliment to red meat. Don't want to go that dark? Reach for a nice, solid brown ale.
Sausage
You guessed it - the perfect beer pairing for sausages is a German lager. This traditional pairing is popular for a reason - it works, and it works well.
Chicken
Chicken is one of those versatile foods that can really go with any beer. But if you're grilling up some chicken this summer, pair it with a nice Helles ale for a subtle taste, or kick it up a notch with a fruity Saison. Either will do a nice job. In a pinch, an amber ale is also a great compliment to grilled poultry.
Pork
When grilling pork you'll want a beer with a bit of spice or fruitiness to it. A Hefeweizen is a great place to start. If you can get your hands on a Farmhouse ale with a peppery and fruity profile it will take your pork dish to a new level. Feeling like something stronger? Don't be afraid to pair grilled pork with a strong Belgian ale.
Seafood
Sometimes you just have to throw some salmon or lobster on the grill. In that case, you'll want to go with a lighter beer so you don't overpower your seafood flavours. Amber ale, Hefeweizen or Pilsner will do the trick here. If you're smoking your seafood, don't be afraid to pair it with a smokey stout or porter to enhance flavours.
Grilled Veggies
Not a meat eater, or just want to add some veggies to your BBQ'd meal? Corn is always a great option for grilling. Pair it with something on the lighter side, like an Oktoberfest lager. Or if you're grilling heartier and earthier veggies (such as eggplant and mushrooms), go for something a little darker but not heavy, like a Schwarzbier.
