Beer and food matching: A curry with CAMRA

Beer and a curry are a classic combination, but the question which has sparked many a poppadom-fuelled debate is exactly which flavours work best...

Beer and a curry are a classic combination, but the question which has sparked many a poppadom-fuelled debate is exactly which flavours work best together?

While today we tend to enjoy lighter, lager-style beers with Indian food, originally, it was India pale ales - or IPAs - which were shipped out to accompany subcontinental catering.

To help resolve this burning question, CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) and Indian food specialist the Authentic Food Company teamed up with JD Wetherspoon's Curry Club at the Calverts Court, Stockport, for the ultimate in curry and beer tasting to pin down the best combinations once and for all.

Twelve of CAMRA's experts matched each curry on the menu with the most suitable beer - a feat only such top class professionals can achieve.

The results were:

Malaysian beef rendang and 3 Rivers Hilary's Gold
Chicken korma and Deuchars IPA
Chicken jalfrezi and Archers Crystals Clear Ale
Lamb rogan josh and Greene King Abbott Ale
Daal masala and Lodden Flight of Fancy Ale.

What the judges thought

The Malaysian beef rendang topped the poll. It was perfectly matched to the 3 Rivers Hilary's Gold.

Ralph Warrington, CAMRA regional director for Greater Manchester, said: "This is a pleasantly sharp, medium spiced curry which we matched up with the complex 3 Rivers Hilary's Gold because of its rich flavour.

"The strong beer held its own against this flavoursome dish and really complimented the ginger tones."

In second place, CAMRA opted for the chicken korma paired with Deuchars IPA.

"The sweetness and delicate spiciness of the korma was set off brilliantly by the hoppy, floral aroma of the Deuchars IPA. Two different flavours that add up to a greater whole," said Ralph.

Chicken jalfrezi came in third, with its well rounded, balanced flavours. The refreshing Archers Crystal Clear was selected as the ideal partner.

Ralph observed: "The invigorating and rich ensemble of flavours in the jalfrezi went really well with the cutting edge and restrained hoppy bite of the Archers."