Half Pints Brewing Company
Brewer's Blog

Not just pub grub anymore (not that there's anything wrong with that), beer & food pairings have come a long way! Here we aim to show the versatility of beer with food, as well as sharing recipes for cooking with beer.

Inspiration

Last week, I was the invited guest of the Great White North Brewerianist Club for a food and beer pairing meal at the Grant Park Liquor Mart. I've actually known the fellow who gives the presentation (Steve Moran) for some time. His passion for all things food and his steadfast dedication to DIY principals are what really draw people in.

If you've got a few hours to spare for some tasty brews and tastier food, I'd suggest the evening highly. On this particular evening, we had some Lobster Bisque, Sushi, Roast Bison and a lovely Chocolate Cherry Cake as dessert. All the while, we were plied with various beers (2 per course) as pairings for the food in front of us. I must have been on a complementary kick that night as I found the pairings I enjoyed the most tended to complement the meals well.

It seems that the food and beer pairings are starting to get their due in chef's circles. Gone are the days of house red or white with house steak or fish (thankfully). It only seems natural that beer would show its versatility in the pairing department as well. Gone are the days of lite beer and pizza or bowls of stale popcorn/pretzels and draft.

Since I'm not the first to champion the cause of beer with a meal, I thought it may be prudent to give you all some links to the beer chef's book shelf. Some of these have been staples in my house, while some are newer additions to the fold.
  1. The Brewmaster's Table - indispensable when it comes to the overview of the whole subject, Garret Oliver's book has quickly become the must have in my shelf.
  2. Stephen Beaumont's Brewpub Cookbook - Stephen's book was one of the first I read regarding the subject and continues to prove its worth. Lots of recipes with info.
  3. The Best of American Beer & Food - I've not actually read this one but...
  4. Grilling with Beer - Her other book has been a great read and has left me chomping at the bit for firing up the smoker again. Lucy also has a website (beercook.com) that gives some other stories and such regarding the topic for all to enjoy.

If you get a chance, check these out for your enjoyment. Have fun!

Brewmaster Dave :)