For dishes that would normally have you reaching for a beer or wine, consider cider as an option and you won’t be disappointed.
Cider has been on the rise in popularity for the last couple of years and with good reason. Cider’s unique characteristics and variety of styles make it deserving of a place at the table.
What is Cider?
Cider is basically apple wine and you can treat it as you would any other white wine at your dinner table. Cider is also an excellent palate cleanser that allows you to move between dishes without overpowering the flavors of the meal.
To prevent any cider anxiety you might be feeling, we’ve put together a list of pairings that are sure to please!
Our Recommended Pairings
Cider’s acidity cuts right through fatty foods, making it an excellent partner for cream sauce dishes or fatty meats. Like mussels in garlic cream sauce paired with Argus Ginger Perry.
The high carbonation and acidity of cider works wonderfully to contrast the heat of spicy dishes as well as bitter or sour dishes. Thai food works wonderfully with cider. Try pairing Tom Yum Soup with Texas Keeper No. 1 Small Batch Cider or Pad Thai with Thistly Cross Whiskey Cask Cider.
Cider and sushi are a fantastic combination as the acidity of the cider allows the bright, clean flavors of the fish to shine. Try pairing sashimi or lighter fish with a Houston Cider Co. Rosé Cider and for heavier fish like tuna, go for Shacksbury Cider Spritz.
Cider and shellfish are a great combination that evokes memories of a warm, sunny seaside experience. For oysters on the half shell a semi-dry cider like Moontower Semi Dry Cider is an excellent choice. Bubbles and steamed shrimp are an experience not to be missed and pair well with Virtue Lapinette Brut Cider.
When it comes to the grill, not all your meats will be red and as such work wonderfully with a cider. Try your grilled chicken with a Bishop Mango Habanero Cider and your grilled veggies with a Locust Sweet Aged Apple Cider.
If you’re in the mood for Mexican, fish tacos get even better when paired with the Rekorderlig Premium Pear Cider, while Mexican street corn has the perfect partner in a Schilling Rhubarb Cider.
Salads, especially summer salads with fruit, work great as the cider brings the fresh fruit flavors to the forefront. Try a summer salad with fresh strawberries with a Rekorderlig Strawberry Lime Cider.
