By Andy Young
Coopers Brewery has launched an 'Ale 'n Spice' promotion, which is aimed primarily at the hotel and bar trade.
As part of the promotion Coopers has prepared a guide to help match its ales wth spices in food.
Coopers' national sales and marketing director, Cam Pearce, said that while there were no right or wrong answers to matching food and beer, the guide provides a useful starting point.
"Unlike lagers, naturally conditioned ales complement spice without extinguishing flavour," Pearce said.
Generally, the higher the International Bitterness Unit (IBU) in the Coopers Ale, the more it will enhance the spices in the food.
“Based on the experience of our expert brewers, there are a few strong connections which people can try."
Those recommendations include:
- Coopers Original Pale Ale. IBU: 24 (mid range). This is perfect for enhancing heat without being too hot.
- Sparkling Ale. IBU: 30 (Medium to high range). Because this would give a hot dish a real kick, it is suggested this accompany mild, Asian inspires dishes full of ginger and garlic.
- Coopers Stout. IBU: 40 (High range). This works beautifully with sweet desserts full of apple and cinnamon.
Although the Ale 'n Spice promotion is aimed at on-premise, Pearce added that it does have relevance for home cooks who like to match beer and food. Details about the guide and its matchings are available on the Coopers website.