The art of food pairing is as diverse as the variety of beer itself. The right pairing can take the taste experience to a new level.
A light, light lager, for example, is ideal with simple poultry or fish dishes. The slim body and the balance between hop and malt flavors complement light meat dishes well. The basic rule applies here: birds of a feather like to mix.
On the other hand, beers with strong hop bitterness such as an India Pale Ale (IPA) can harmonize well with spicy foods such as curries or fatty finger foods. The spiciness is rounded off by the bitterness and the typically carbonated beers loosen the mouthfeel caused by the fatty dishes.
Wheat beer , with its yeasty fruitiness and slight acidity, goes wonderfully with salads and seafood dishes.
For lovers of hearty dishes, a strong dark beer such as a stout or porter is ideal. The roasted aromas of the beer perfectly complement the strong taste of steak, roasted meat or a hearty stew.
Sour beers like Berliner Weisse or Gose can be combined with salty snacks like pretzels, goat cheese or pickled vegetables.
Ultimately, however, these are just guidelines and experimenting with different combinations is recommended, especially for beginners.