Ideal food pairings for golden cask ales

In a bid to increase footfall at pubs, the operator of circa 2,600 pubs, restaurants and hotels, said guests are looking for a lighter and thirst-quenching beers and a great cask ale offer can really meet such needs.

Therefore, the list below would suit the Greene King beers perfectly but if you serve similar styles, use the advice here to pair up your menu items well.

Ideal bitterness​

Old Golden Hen – this is a 4.1% ABV light and refreshing beer with the ideal level of bitterness that balances the sweet impact of the intense tropical fruit flavours. For the perfect food pairing, the golden ale’s flavours complement lighter summer dishes, especially pizza, chicken or bacon, which is great for alfresco dining.

Deuchars IPA – this hoppy 3.8% ABV beer is part of the Caledonian family that recently joined the Greene King portfolio and is perfect with spicy curry dishes or anything with a kick.

Yard Bird – a 4% ABV bright and hoppy American-style pale ale, it can be perfectly paired with fish dishes, whether that be the traditional fish and chips or a creamier fish sauce. This will allow the flavours of Yardbird to cleanse the palate and tingle the taste buds.

St Edmunds – this is a seasonal Greene King cask ale, available until the end of June, the 4.2% ABV golden beer has a citrus finish, brewed using pale malt and Cascade hops. The best choices to complement this ale are creamy pasta dishes using meats such as pork or chicken, and fish, as you’ll get a kick from the zesty, refreshing mouthfeel of the beer.

Seasonal ales​

Ale Fresco – this is another seasonal ale that is due to hit the bar in July/August. It is a 4.3% ABV light refreshing beer with tropical fruits and lemon citrus notes. The moderate bitterness of the golden ale offers a delicious pairing with barbecue foods and grilled fish, great for summer events coming up.

Mischief Maker – another upcoming seasonal special, Mischief Maker is a 6% ABV extra hoppy IPA that uses special British hops. This beer will be great with salty dishes such as burgers or fish. However, for guests with a sweet tooth a lemon tart or orange cake is a great recommendation too.

Greene King head brewer Jack Palmer said: “Golden and pale cask ales stand strong on the bar in the summer months, with their fruit flavours and lighter styles ideal for relaxing and socialising in beer gardens.

“For operators, we also understand that food is a key driver for footfall and we know what works well with our ales so you can make great pairings and recommendations for your guests, providing an experience they’ll come back for.”