Food & Kentucky Common Beer Pairing Ideas

Pairing the Kentucky Common with Food

The Kentucky Common, a uniquely American beer style with roots dating back to the late 19th century, has experienced a resurgence in popularity due in part to the ever-growing craft beer movement. Known for its versatile flavor profile, the Kentucky Common is an excellent choice for pairing with various cuisines. Let’s get to it!

A Flavor Profile to Remember

Before we dive into the world of food pairings, it's essential to understand the distinctive characteristics of the Kentucky Common. This beer style is characterized by its malty backbone, often exhibiting flavors of caramel, toffee, and toasted bread, along with subtle fruity esters. The use of corn in the brewing process adds a hint of sweetness, while a moderate hop bitterness provides balance. The result is a highly drinkable, medium-bodied brew with a slightly dry finish.

Appetizers and Small Plates

The versatile flavor profile of the Kentucky Common makes it an excellent choice for pairing with appetizers and small plates. When selecting a starter, consider dishes that feature smoky, salty, or slightly sweet flavors. Some options include:

• Charcuterie: Cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and smoked sausage, provide a delightful contrast to the malty sweetness of the Kentucky Common. The beer's moderate carbonation also helps cleanse the palate between bites.
• Soft Pretzels: The classic combination of a soft pretzel with tangy mustard is a perfect match for the Kentucky Common. The beer's toasted malt flavors complement the pretzel's bready notes, while the mustard's sharpness contrasts the beer's subtle sweetness.

Main Courses

When pairing the Kentucky Common with main courses, think of hearty, flavorful dishes that can stand up to the beer's robust malt profile. Some suggestions include the following:

• BBQ Ribs: The caramelized, smoky flavors of barbecued ribs are a natural fit with the Kentucky Common. The beer's maltiness and mild fruity esters complement the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, while its moderate bitterness cuts through the richness of the meat.
• Roast Chicken: A simple roast chicken seasoned with herbs and spices makes for a delicious pairing with the Kentucky Common. The beer's caramel and toasted malt notes enhance the chicken's natural flavors, while its moderate carbonation and hop bitterness help to cleanse the palate.

Desserts

The Kentucky Common's versatility extends to dessert pairings as well. Look for desserts with flavors that stand up to the beer's maltiness without overpowering it. Some options include:

• Bread Pudding: A warm, comforting bread pudding, perhaps drizzled with caramel sauce, is a perfect match for the Kentucky Common. The dessert's custard-like texture and rich sweetness are balanced by the beer's crisp carbonation and subtle hop bitterness.
• Apple Crisp: The combination of tart apples, buttery crumble topping, and warm spices in an apple crisp works harmoniously with the flavors of the Kentucky Common. The beer's caramel and toasted malt notes accentuate the dessert's sweetness, while its fruity esters complement the apples.

The Kentucky Common is a versatile beer that can enhance a variety of culinary experiences. From appetizers to desserts, its unique flavor profile offers an array of pairing possibilities. By considering each dish's complementary flavors and textures, you can create a memorable dining experience that highlights the best qualities of this classic American beer style. So, grab a glass of Kentucky Common and let your taste buds embark on a culinary adventure.


- Michael Moeller