Thanksgiving is a cherished occasion where families gather to express gratitude, indulge in lavish meals, and, perhaps most importantly, savor delicious desserts. In the cosmos of Thanksgiving treats, pies take a central role, with varieties ranging from the classic pumpkin to the nuanced pecan. While most focus on food pairings with wine, a refreshing alternative lies in the world of beer. This article explores how pairing beer with pies can not only enhance the dining experience, but also add a layer of excitement and conversation at the Thanksgiving table.
The beauty of beer as a pairing option stems from its diverse flavor profiles and versatility. Each style of beer can accentuate and balance the flavors in various desserts, particularly pies. Additionally, beer’s carbonation can cleanse the palate, prepping it for the complex flavors of subsequent bites. By stepping away from traditional pairings, you invite a playful exploration of taste that can enliven even the most predictable Thanksgiving gatherings.
Exploring Flavors: From Pumpkin to Chocolate
Beginning with perhaps the most iconic Thanksgiving pie, the pumpkin pie, one might consider the robust qualities of a Scotch ale, or “wee heavy.” This traditional Scottish style boasts rich, caramel notes paired with warm, toasty undertones that resonate beautifully with the spiced elements of pumpkin pie. Think of each sip enhancing the overall experience of the dish, rather than overshadowing it. Notable options include Oskar Blues Old Chub or Orcney Skull Splitter, each offering a touch of sweetness that harmonizes with the spices in the pie.
Transitioning to the ever-popular pecan pie, English barleywines illuminate an interesting path. These beers, with their stronger alcohol content, serve to temper the sweetness of the pie while introducing flavorful notes of dark toffee and oak. American barleywines, by contrast, often lean towards the hoppy end of the spectrum, which may not complement the nutty tones of pecan pie as effectively. Seek out recommendations like Revolution Straight Jacket or JW Lee’s Vintage Harvest Ale to create the perfect balance on your table this Thanksgiving.
The classic apple pie presents another opportunity for creative pairing—it’s a delightful yet somewhat familiar choice. To elevate this much-loved dessert, consider a Trappist quad. These Belgian-style beers, known for their high alcohol content, complex flavors, and effervescent finish, complement the tartness of apples with notes of brown sugar, light cocoa, and spices. Rochefort’s offerings, particularly their renowned 6, 8, and 10 versions, can truly transform the apple pie experience into something extraordinary.
For pies with more exotic flavors, such as sweet potato, Baltic porters emerge as a delightful pairing partner. With their inherent notes of treacle, molasses, and bittersweet chocolate, they counterbalance the natural sweetness found in sweet potato pie. Moreover, their higher alcohol content helps diffuse any overwhelming sweetness, while coffee undertones harmonize beautifully with additional spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Options like Zywiec Baltic Porter or Dovetail Baltic Porter are wonderful selections to round out your dessert offerings.
The Richness of Decadent Desserts
As we contemplate richer pies, such as a chocolate mousse pie, the necessity for robust sophistication becomes apparent. Enter the imperial stout—a strong beer characterized by deep cocoa and roasted coffee notes. This style aligns harmoniously with the lusciousness of chocolate mousse, offering a nuanced contrast where the sweetness of the dessert is balanced by the beer’s bold characteristics. Choices like Sierra Nevada Narwhal or Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout are prime contenders that can transform a humble pie into a gourmet finale.
Thanksgiving is a time to indulge, but also a moment to reflect on the connections with the people we cherish. Pairing pies with thoughtfully selected beers allows for a unique dining experience that brings family and friends closer together, sparking delightful discussions over flavors and preferences. As you turn to your loved ones around the table this holiday season, embrace the charm of diverse beer pairings that honor the spirit of Thanksgiving. Cheers to creating memorable moments filled with laughter, love, and of course, delicious beer and pie!