Nothing goes better with fish and chips than an ice-cold beverage! Whether you’re having a casual dinner with friends or family, or simply getting take-out from your favorite fish and chip shop, there are plenty of drinks that will take your meal to the next level. From beer and wine to spirits, in this article we’ll explore a variety of beverages that perfectly complement a plate of fish and chips. So grab your favorite drink and enjoy your fish and chips in style!
Beer
Lager is often the go-to beer for fish and chips, with pale ales being a close second. Both of these styles of beers have a light, crisp flavor that won’t overpower the fish or the chips. The sweetness of the malt in the beer also cuts through and compliments the salty fried goodness of the dish. For a classic British lager, try a Boddingtons or a Stella Artois. For a pale ale, opt for a Sierra Nevada or a Fullers.
India pale ales (IPAs) also work well with fish and chips, thanks to their hoppy flavor and light, citrusy notes. The bitterness and hop aroma of the IPA will help to balance out the fatty fry of the fish and potatoes and provide a refreshing alternative to the traditional lager and pale ale options. However, be mindful of the bitterness of the beer with your fish and chips; too much can overpower the dish. For a great IPA, try Sierra Nevada’s Torpedo or Lagunitas’ IPA.
Finally, porters, stouts, and other dark ales are a great choice for fish and chips, as they offer a heartier, malty flavor. Stouts and porters in particular bring deep, smokey and toffee-like flavors that pair wonderfully with the rich flavor of fried seafood. If you’re looking for a dark beer to go with your fish and chips, try Guinness, Sam Smith’s Oatmeal Stout, or Founders’ Porter.
Wine
When choosing which white wine to pair with your fish and chips, there are several options. For fish and chips with a crispy, fried coating, try a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. These wines are light and citrusy, with notes of lemon and lime that will accentuate the crunchy texture of the fish and chips. For a more delicate version of the dish, opt for a Chardonnay or a Riesling. The creamy and buttery notes of these wines will serve to amplify the subtle flavor of the fish, adding an extra layer of flavor that will make the meal even more special.
For a truly unique experience, try pairing a sparkling white wine with your fish and chips. A dry, sparkling white such as a Prosecco will bring a bubbly sweetness and acidity to the dish that will balance out the richness of the chips and the subtle flavor of the fish.
Spirits
When it comes to pairing drinks with fish and chips, spirits are an often overlooked option. Spirits can add a unique depth of flavor to the classic British dish and make the perfect accompaniment to a night of cozy comfort food.
For a light and refreshing option, gin is a great choice. The crisp, herbal notes of the spirit can perfectly complement the savoury flavours of the dish. A classic G&T is always a safe bet, or why not get creative and try something new like a gin-based cocktail like a Bramble, a Southside, or a Tom Collins.
Vodka is also an excellent option for pairing with fish and chips. Its neutral flavor works well for those who don’t like the taste of gin, and it is versatile enough to work with a variety of mixers. Try pairing the dish with a classic Bloody Mary, a Salty Dog, or a White Russian.
Whisky is another classic choice for pairing with fish and chips. Its smoky and peaty flavor will add an extra layer of richness to the dish. Enjoy it neat and savor the flavor notes of the single malt, or stir it up with a twist of lemon and a splash of soda water.
Finally, rum is a great choice for bringing a hint of sweetness to the dish. Opt for a dark rum, such as a spiced rum, and enjoy it with a classic ginger beer.
No matter which spirit you decide to pair with your fish and chips, you’re sure to have a delicious, flavorful meal. Cheers!
